Splatoon Goes Single-Player: Splatoon Raiders Out Now on Nintendo Switch 2

Publisher Nintendo has officially dropped an action-packed overview trailer for Splatoon Raiders, detailing the single-player-focused spin-off available starting July 23, 2026, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. Departing from traditional turf battles, this action-shooter tasks players with taking on the role of a customizable mechanic exploring the uncharted Spirhalite Islands in search of hidden treasures. Supported by fan-favorite band Deep Cut, players must gear up, clear raids, and fend off aggressive hordes of Salmonids in both solo and four-player cooperative play.

Key Game & Developer Information

• Game Title: Splatoon Raiders
• Developer & Publisher: Nintendo
• Genre: Action-Shooter, Third-Person Adventure, Single-Player Campaign
• Platform: Nintendo eShop Storefront (Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive)
• Worldwide Release Date: July 23, 2026
• Official Franchise Website: Splatoon Base Portal
• Official Social Media Directory: Get news updates on the Official Squid Research Lab X Account and Official Nintendo X Account.

What Is Splatoon Raiders and How Does the Story Unfold?

Splatoon Raiders introduces a fresh narrative direction for the universe, catering to both long-time series veterans and curious newcomers. You play as a talented Mechanic who ventures into the mysterious, resource-rich archipelago known as the Spirhalite Islands.

Story and world highlights include:

• Customizable Protagonist: Create your own custom Inkling or Octoling mechanic with tailored loadouts, specialized gear abilities, and unique mechanical gadgets.
• Treasure-Hunting Campaign: Explore sprawling biomes across the Spirhalite Islands, ranging from volcanic zones to ancient buried ruins.
• Deep Cut Backing Team: Fan-favorite trio Shiver, Frye, and Big Man join your expedition as crewmates, bringing new outfits and character interactions.
• Combat Assistance Bot: One member of Deep Cut actively assists you in combat by piloting a powerful, mech-like Exploration Bot during high-intensity raids.

How Does Gameplay Work in Splatoon Raiders?

While classic ink-splatting mechanics return, Splatoon Raiders shifts the core gameplay loop toward objective-based raiding, loot gathering, and progression.

Key mechanics and features include:

• Invention Gadgets and Ink Arsenal: Utilize specialized mechanical tools alongside classic ink blasters, rollers, and brushes to traverse environments and puzzle-solve.
• Salmonid Horde Battles: Face off against dangerous strains of Salmonids guarding precious treasures, including massive Boss and Mythic Salmonid variants.
• Resource Salvaging: Collect crafting components across completed raids to upgrade gear stats, forge new weapons, and build tactical gadgetry.
• Four-Player Co-Op Multiplayer: Although built primarily as a narrative single-player journey, players can join up with up to three friends for four-player cooperative raids via local wireless or online multiplayer.