Nintendo has officially pulled back the curtain on Splatoon Raiders, a new single-player-focused action-shooter coming exclusively to the Nintendo Switch 2. Revealed during today’s dedicated presentation, the game casts players as a mechanic teaming up with the musical trio Deep Cut—Shiver, Frye, and Big Man—to explore the treasure-laden Spirhalite Islands.
- Release Date: July 23, 2026
- Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
- Core Gameplay: Single-player action-shooter with 4-player co-op support
- Key Features: 100+ weapons, customizable tank gadgets, and three difficulty levels
Treasure Hunting and Salmonid Threats
The core of the experience involves venturing into the Spirhalite Islands, which are packed with challenges ranging from underground dungeons and resource-rich crystal mines to facilities that restrict your loadout. Standing in your way are various Salmonid enemies, ranging from swarming Lesser Salmonids to formidable Bosses that drop Mega Power Eggs—a vital resource for powering your Exploration Bot.
The toughest foes are the "Seasoned Salmonids," which Nintendo describes as the peak of Salmonid evolution. You will need to utilize over 100 different weapon variations, which can be discovered as loot or dropped by defeated enemies, to survive these encounters.
Customization and Combat Mechanics
Combat is built around your choice of tank: the Speed, Power, or Tactical model. Each tank supports two starting gadgets, though you can upgrade them to hold three as you progress. These gadgets are highly customizable; by collecting parts, you can modify damage, fire rate, and duration, or add effects like knockback gas and ink explosions.
The trio from Deep Cut plays a central role in your success at the hideout ship:
- Shiver: Manages the Gadget Workshop for crafting new equipment.
- Frye: Assists with upgrading weapons or recycling them into materials at the Weapon Stash.
- Big Man: Catalogs information and helps optimize your toolkits.
Accessibility and Multiplayer
Whether you are looking for a casual trip or a grueling challenge, Splatoon Raiders offers three difficulty settings—Tourist, Raider, and Survivalist—which can be toggled at the hideout ship. While the loot remains consistent across difficulties, the Salmonids become significantly tougher on higher settings.
If you prefer to hunt with friends, the game supports up to four players via local wireless or online play. Solo players aren't left behind either, as the "Call for Help" feature allows you to request temporary assistance from other players during a raid.
Players looking to prepare for the launch can participate in a special Splatoon Raiders-themed Splatfest in Splatoon 3, running from July 10 at 5 p.m. PT to July 12 at 5 p.m. PT. Additionally, Nintendo confirmed that new Deep Cut-themed Joy-Con 2 controllers will hit shelves alongside the game on July 23.