Nintendo announced that Splatoon Raiders will launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 23rd, marking the first fresh entry in the series since Splatoon 3 in 2022.
Splatoon Raiders expands the franchise with a single-player campaign and limited co-op
The game retains the ink-based shooter mechanics and soundtrack of the main series but shifts focus to a narrative-driven campaign where players customize a mechanic working with the band Deep Cut to explore the Spirhalite Islands and battle Salmonid hordes for treasure. Whereas Nintendo describes it as single-player-focused, the title supports up to four players in online or local co-op modes.
Release fills a gap in Nintendo’s sparse Switch 2 lineup for mid-2026
Splatoon Raiders arrives alongside Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream and a Super Mario Bros. Wonder expansion, leaving Yoshi and the Mysterious Book (May), Rhythm Heaven Grove (July), and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave (TBD) as the only other confirmed 2026 titles. The announcement suggests Nintendo may reserve major holiday reveals for after the summer period.
Will Splatoon Raiders be available on the original Nintendo Switch?
No, the game is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 as part of its launch window lineup.
Does Splatoon Raiders include competitive multiplayer modes like the main series?
No, the title is designed as a single-player-focused experience with optional co-op play, but does not feature the competitive 4v4 modes central to Splatoon 2, and 3.
