Games / Action

Splatoon Raiders

Jul 23, 2026Action · ShooterE10+

$49.99eShop

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Prices checked 14 Oct 2026

Trailer

Screenshots

Our take

If you enjoyed the original Splatoon games, this new entry on Switch 2 might just be worth your time. Priced reasonably at $24.99, it brings fresh mechanics and content but doesn't reinvent the wheel. However, if you've had your fill of ink-slinging chaos, this might feel more like a rehash than a leap forward.

This latest addition to the Splatoon franchise retains the quirky charm and competitive nature that fans love. The controls feel intuitive on the Switch 2, with motion sensitivity enhancing aiming precision. However, the core gameplay loop is familiar, which could feel stale for those seeking innovation. The visuals pop in docked mode, but performance dips during intense moments can be jarring. Compared to rivals like Overwatch, Splatoon Raiders leans more into chaos than tactical play. While the new content is engaging, it doesn’t fully distance itself from its predecessors, leaving some aspects feeling recycled. But for ink enthusiasts, the Splatfest events and online matchmaking are solid draws.

Pros

Exciting new weapons like the Wave Blaster, adding fresh tactics to gameplay
Expanded maps with varied terrain keep matches dynamic
Regular Splatfest events encourage community engagement

Cons

Some recurring connectivity issues during online matches
Limited single-player content could disappoint solo players
Performance hiccups in chaotic scenes lead to frame drops

Players engage in vibrant, fast-paced four-on-four battles, using an array of customizable weapons to cover the map in ink. The new team mechanics allow for strategic plays, including 'squid formations' to confuse opponents. Scoring revolves around territory control, rewarding players for strategic splattering over sheer kills.

On Switch 2

On Switch 2, the game runs smoothly in both handheld and docked modes. The enhanced controls, especially with motion aiming, give a satisfying edge during precise skirmishes. However, keep an eye out for occasional frame rate drops in heated matches.

Who it's for

This game is perfect for fans of the original Splatoon who crave more of that ink-slinging action. If you’re new to the series or prefer single-player campaigns, you might want to hold off until there's more content.

About

Splatter enemies and claim your turf as the ink-spewing, squid-like characters called Inklings in Nintendo's new third-person action shooter game for the Wii U console. Compete in four-on-four matches, in which the goal is to get your ink on as many places as possible and claim your turf, all while strategically submerging yourself in your team's colors and blasting your enemies. This is a colorful and chaotic online third-person action shooter – exclusively on Wii U. FEATURES: Fresh content New weapons, modes, maps, gear, and more have been added to Splatoon, with more rolling out through summer 2015. Plus, regularly scheduled Splatfest events let you choose a side and battle your way to victory with other players around the world! Online* team matchmaking: Create a squid squad with your friends in Squad Battle mode. Join up to seven friends in Private Battles—you choose the map and the rules. Get teamed up with other players for 4 vs. 4 matches in Turf War or Ranked Battle modes. Ramp up the intensity with Ranked Battle modes which include three rotating modes: Splat Zones, Tower Control, and Rainmaker Play to win and boost your player ranking or level, or get in-game currency to spend on gear upgrades. Think while you ink Strategy is everything. Defeat enemies to splatter them in an explosion of ink, covering more turf for your team. But choose wisely: Players who only go after the enemy might find their turf redecorated in their enemies' colors. Refill ink tanks, hide from opponents or move faster by turning into a squid and diving intoink with the tap of a button. Covering more territory with ink unlocks powered-up super weapons that can be used to attack rivals or cover more turf. More ways to play Select between multiple control options on the Wii U GamePad controller, including using gyroscopic controls to look around, allowing for better aiming and control. Hone your skills in Octo Valley, the single-player mode that will have you inking, splatting, and squidding through platforming puzzles as you take on the Octarian army. Battle a friend one-on-one at home in a balloon-splatting contest in Battle Dojo.