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What is the Splatoon™ 3 game?
What is the Splatoon™ 3 game?

What coaches, parents, and players need to know about the Splatoon 3

Updated this week

Splatoon 3 is a third-person action multiplayer game* where you compete as a species of fashionable squid-like Inklings. This Nintendo Switch™ title is a family-friendly alternative to other action-shooter games.

Players will compete in 4-on-4* ink-slinging battle modes with different conditions to win. Each mode takes creative skills and strategy, making them entertaining for higher-level tourneys.

*Additional games and systems required for multiplayer mode. Games and systems sold separately.

Game Details

What’s the game objective of Splatoon 3?

The main mode of Splatoon 3 is Turf War. In this mode, players must cover the most ground in their team’s ink before the time limit expires. Splash the ink all over the place using your weapons. In Splatoon 3, you can choose to be either an Inkling or an Octoling who will spread the ink with items like buckets, paintbrushes, and squirt guns.

What items and stages can I choose from?

Players can select any of the currently available stages in Splatoon 3. Players can equip any items in the game except for the unlockable Splatfest** Tees.

**Any Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required for online features. Membership auto-renews after initial term at the then-current price unless canceled. Not available in all countries. Internet access required for online features. Terms apply. Nintendo.com/switch-online

Splatfest Tees are unique pieces of gear that are used in special in-game events only and are not designed to be used competitively. Therefore, Splatfest Tees are prohibited from being used in PlayVS matches.

Game Setup

What platform will the game be played on?

  • Nintendo Switch system

What hardware or software will be required to play?

  • The Splatoon 3 game (physical or digital version)

  • 4x Nintendo Switch system

  • 4x Nintendo Switch Joy-Con™ controllers

    • Other licensed Nintendo Switch system compatible controllers without the use of Turbo Mode are optional

  • 4x USB to Ethernet Adapter (needed to obtain a hardwired connection)

How do I get Splatoon 3?

You can get or acquire the game in two ways:

  • Physical Version

    • You can purchase a physical version at My Nintendo Store or at participating retailers.

  • Digital Version

    • Purchased at My Nintendo Store, Nintendo eShop, or participating retailers.

    • Purchasing digital versions at participating retailers or My Nintendo Store provides a 16-character code that can be redeemed on Nintendo eShop. Steps for redeeming a digital code can be found via Nintendo Support.

Competition/Match Information

What's the match format?

Teams of four players will compete 4v4 in a Best-of-5 games format to determine the overall winner of a match. Game Modes are set at the start of each season. The first team to win three games will be awarded the win for the match. Each game lasts about 6 minutes on average.

What days will the PlayVS matches be played on for this game?

The game’s official match days will be on Tuesdays.

Additional Resources

Where can I find resources to improve my play?

  • For more information, read Nintendo’s How to Play Guide article.

  • You can record and review your team’s matches to help them overcome their weaknesses and capitalize on their strengths.

© 2024 Nintendo. Splatoon and Nintendo Switch are trademarks of Nintendo.

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