New York: Picture this: you’re an Inkling—messy, energetic, and full of attitude—suddenly crash-landing on a mysterious tropical island. You wake up alongside your mechanical sidekick, with the pop idol trio Deep Cut by your side. That’s the surprise twist introduced in Splatoon Raiders, the first-ever spinoff in the Splatoon universe, revealed just days after the Switch 2 launched.
For those who’ve lived through turf wars and lawn-chair duels in Splatoon 2, Splatoon Raiders isn’t just another game—it’s a whole new vibe. Gone are the frantic multiplayer battles; now it’s immersive survival, base building, exploration, and maybe even some soul-searching on the Spirhalite Islands.
And while you’re revving up for this solo adventure, hold on tight—because Splatoon 3 is ALSO getting a massive update: 30 remixed weapons, the classic Urchin Underpass stage returns, and Switch 2 players get a visual boost—all for free starting June 12. Talk about a splashy double drop!
What Is Splatoon Raiders? A Spinoff with Swag
Splatoon Raiders is Nintendo’s bold pivot: the first spinoff game in the franchise, designed exclusively for Switch 2. That’s right—no classic turfwars this time, but a brand-new narrative adventure. The trailer shows a mechanical protagonist, with your ink-equipped buddy, navigating sandy shores and ocean winds alongside Deep Cut (Frye, Shiver, Big Man) on the Spirhalite Islands.
What makes it special?
Solo Focus & Survival Mechanics
This feels more like Animal Crossing meets Zelda, with actions like fishing, salvaging, and building a base hinted at in the trailer.
Mysterious Plot Hooks
Subtle hints of a mysterious energy beam and hidden island secrets—a new emotional thread for the franchise’s next chapter.
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Why Switch to Switch 2? The Tech Upgrades
Nintendo chose Splatoon Raiders to highlight Switch 2’s strengths right after its launch:
Next-Gen Visuals
Expect richer environments, smoother textures, and better performance—especially on Switch 2.
Cross-Gen Updates
Splatoon 3’s June 12 update isn’t just reskinning—it brings full cross-play, meaning your upgraded experience on Switch 2 won’t isolate you from friends on the OG Switch
Modern Reveal Strategy
Interestingly, Nintendo released the announcement via mobile app push—showing a smarter, direct way to build hype.
What This Means For:
Solo Fans
If you’ve been craving a quieter, story-driven Splatoon experience after the noise of turf wars, Raiders is your moment.
Switch 2 Owners
This game feels like Nintendo’s way of saying, “This console isn’t just for ports—this is a new era.”
The Community
Competitive players can enjoy new weapons and classic stages in Splatoon 3, while Raiders primes the narrative engine for potential Splatoon 4 or beyond.
What’s Coming Up Next?
Release Date?
TBD. Trailer notes that research is still underway, meaning it could be many months out.
More Info Soon
Keep an eye on the Nintendo Today app and potential future Nintendo Directs.
Splatoon 3 Update
June 12 unlocks 30 Splatlands weapons, Urchin Underpass stage, enhanced visuals, badges, and Series Weapon Power for smarter matchmaking.
Meet the Splatoon Raiders Mechanic on Spirhalite Islands
The trailer shows you waking up as a mechanic protagonist, stuck on a beach with parts scattered—and a friendly robot buddy by your side. Your quest? Explore the island, scavenge materials, and perhaps decode a bigger mystery lurking beneath the sand .
Deep Cut Trio Joins the Adventure in Splatoon Raiders
Frye, Shiver, and Big Man aren’t just cameo material—they’re noted as “splat‑tacular companions.” The teaser shows them fishing, interacting with your robot sidekick, even getting hosed with ink—showing that humor and bonding remain core to the experience .
Summer 2025 Splatoon 3 Update: Hot & Fresh on Switch 2
Splatoon 3’s version 10.0.0 hits June 12 and packs a punch:
- 30 Splatlands weapons (Barazushi + Emberz brands)
- Urchin Underpass stage returns from the original Splatoon
- Visual enhancements for Switch 2, smoother animations
- Series Weapon Power stat and badges for in-depth player tracking
Splatoon Raiders is Nintendo’s promise of a new era—melding the chaos of Splatoon with narrative exploration and survival mechanics. Exclusive to Switch 2, it’s a clear path forward for fans who loved the turf wars and now want something deeper. And with the free Splatoon 3 update arriving in June, the franchise is doubling down on freshness.
Gamers, you’re not just fighting turf battles. You’re going on an adventure with heart, personality, and loads of style. Nintendo’s going big—gear up to ride the wave.
