Nintendo’s latest release, Splatoon Raiders, has secured a notable place in the company's history. Since its release on July 23, 2026, for the Nintendo Switch 2, the title has accumulated a 9.3 user score on Metacritic. This figure marks the highest user score ever recorded for a Nintendo-published game on the platform.

Record-Breaking Reception

The 9.3 rating places Splatoon Raiders as the seventh-highest user-scored game in the history of Metacritic. It currently sits above major catalog titles including Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Previously, the record for a Nintendo title was held by The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask with a 9.2, followed by a cluster of titles—including Pokémon HeartGold & SoulSilver, Xenoblade Chronicles, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time—all of which maintained a 9.1.

While the user reception has been highly favorable, critic reviews have been more moderate. The game currently holds an 81 on Metacritic, a score that aligns with the performance of the three previous entries in the core Splatoon series.

Quick Facts

  • Release Date: July 23, 2026
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
  • Metacritic User Score: 9.3
  • Critic Review Average: 81
  • Developer: Nintendo EPD

A Shift in Strategy

Splatoon Raiders represents a departure from the traditional Splatoon formula. While the core series is built around multiplayer modes, Raiders serves as an experiment focused on a story-driven, single-player experience. The high user score suggests that this pivot has been well-received by the existing fan base.

The release comes during a period where Nintendo leadership has emphasized a strategy of prioritizing player interest over chasing broader industry trends. As other developers move toward live-service models, Splatoon Raiders signals an intent to maintain focus on specific gameplay experiences that resonate with the company's audience.

Availability

Splatoon Raiders is available now for the Nintendo Switch 2. Players can purchase the game digitally via the Nintendo eShop or through various physical retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.