Nintendo Switch 2 to launch with Splatoon Raiders, the Series’ First Spinoff!

Nintendo is once again shaking up its franchise formula, this time with the exciting reveal of Splatoon Raiders, the first spinoff in the vibrant, quirky Splatoon series. The game will be launching exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2, making it one of the most anticipated titles on Nintendo’s next-gen console. This new title marks a dramatic shift from the fast-paced multiplayer experience fans know and love, moving instead toward a survival adventure format that brings a completely new flavour to the series.

A New Ink-Stained Adventure

Unlike its predecessors, Splatoon Raiders breaks away from traditional turf wars and PvP battles. Nintendo has opted for a more story-driven approach where players take control of a young mechanic stranded on the mysterious Spirhalite Islands. The environment is raw and unpredictable, creating a thrilling atmosphere that blends exploration, resource gathering, and base building.

You wouldn’t be alone on this journey, though. The fan-favourite Deep Cut trio, Shiver, Frye, and Big Man, make a return, not just as background personalities but as central characters guiding and supporting the protagonist through this New World. Their presence adds a layer of continuity that fans of Splatoon 3 will surely appreciate.

What Makes Splatoon Raiders Different?

This game is a major departure from the core Splatoon formula. Nintendo has chosen to focus on a single-player survival experience rather than chaotic multiplayer ink-slinging. While that might surprise some, it’s a strategic move that shows Nintendo’s commitment to evolving its franchises creatively.

Story-driven gameplay: The narrative is focused on survival, exploration, and mechanical innovation.
Unique protagonist: Instead of an Inkling soldier, you play a young mechanic navigating a mysterious land.
Environmental puzzles and base-building mechanics replace competitive matches

These changes signal that Nintendo is ready to take bold risks with even its most colorful and playful franchises.

Exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2

One of the biggest talking points is that Splatoon Raiders will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. According to Polygon, this exclusivity allows the game to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s improved graphics engine and smoother frame rates. Nintendo has made it clear that the original Switch won’t be receiving this title, which further emphasizes their intent to push forward with next-gen hardware.

The Switch 2 was launched earlier this month, and Splatoon Raiders join a growing list of exclusive titles designed to highlight the power of the new system. From what we’ve seen in the cinematic trailer, the game features dynamic lightning, improved physics, and a much deeper level of environmental detail.

Timing and Strategy: Side by Side with Splatoon 3 Update

To keep the Splatoon brand strong across both consoles, Nintendo is also rolling out a massive version 10.0.0 update for Splatoon 3, scheduled to go live on June 12. This update brings a wave of new content to the current title, including:

30 new weapon kits in a bundle known as the Splatlands Collection.
Return of the iconic urchin underpass map from the original Splatoon.
Visual and performance upgrades for those playing Splatoon 3 on the Switch 2.
New game stats, such as weapon freshness levels and series weapon power.

As reported by The Verge, this two-pronged strategy ensures that long-time players remain engaged with familiar content, while also enticing them to explore something entirely new with Raiders.

Still Shrouded in Mystery

While we have plenty of exciting details. There are still many questions surrounding Splatoon Raiders. Nintendo has not announced the release date, leaving fans eagerly waiting for more information. The reveal trailer showed enough to spark curiosity but not enough to fully outline the plot or the exact gameplay mechanics.

Speculation is rampant within the community. Some believe the game may introduce light co-op features or expansions down the road.

Conclusion: A Bold New Chapter for Splatoon

Splatoon Raiders is more than just a spinoff. It represents a fresh start and a bold move into uncharted waters, literally and figuratively. Nintendo‘s willingness to take risks with one of its most beloved franchises shows its commitment to innovation. And by launching this new adventure exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2, they’re sending a clear message: the future of gaming on their platform is both exciting and unexpected.

With the promise of deeper storytelling, survival mechanics, and the return of iconic characters, Splatoon Raiders is shaping up to be a must-play title in 2025. Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone new to the franchise, this game is sure to ink its place in Nintendo history.