Current Version Status
Latest Version: 10.0.1 (Released June 26, 2025)
Splatoon 3 is currently on version 10.0.1, which addresses several bug fixes and performance improvements following the major 10.0.0 update released in June 2025 (source: Miketendo64).
Recent Major Updates
Version 10.0.0 – The Big Summer Update
This massive update introduced:
- New Weapons: Multiple new weapon types with a ticket unlock system
- Nintendo Switch 2 Enhancements: Improved performance for the newer console
- UI Overhaul: Updated menus and interface elements
- Content Across All Modes: Updates to Alterna (story mode), Side Order DLC, and Salmon Run
(source: Nintendo UK)
Version 10.0.1 – Performance Fixes
Released June 26, 2025, this patch specifically addressed:
- Performance Issues: Fixed slowdowns when many shots and characters were on stage
- Multiplayer Stability: Improved online match performance
- SplatNet 3 Fixes: Resolved various app connectivity issues
(source: Miketendo64)
Version 9.3.0 – Balance Update
Released March 13, 2025, featuring:
- N-ZAP ’89 Buff: 5% faster movement speed while firing
- Various weapon balance adjustments
- Bug fixes and stability improvements
(source: Comic Book)
Current Content and Events
Sizzle Season 2024
The ongoing seasonal content includes:
- 10 New Weapons: Main weapons and variants
- 24 New Gear Items: Fresh clothing and accessories
- 3 New Slopsuits: Special outfits for Salmon Run mode
Summer 2025 Content
- Summer Nights 2025 Gear: Limited-time seasonal clothing
- Enhanced SplatNet 3: Improved weapon data and Series information
How to Update Your Game
- Automatic Updates: Ensure your Nintendo Switch is connected to the internet with automatic updates enabled
- Manual Update: Go to your game library, press + on Splatoon 3, select “Software Update,” then “Via the Internet”
- Check Version: In-game, the version number appears in the bottom-right corner of the title screen
What’s Next?
Nintendo continues to support Splatoon 3 with regular updates. Based on the pattern of recent releases:
- Monthly Balance Patches: Expect weapon adjustments and bug fixes
- Seasonal Content: New gear, weapons, and events tied to real-world seasons
- Ongoing Splatfests: Regular weekend events with community voting
Key Features to Explore
If you haven’t played recently, make sure to check out:
- Updated UI: The new interface in version 10.0.0
- New Weapon Types: Try the latest additions to the arsenal
- Enhanced Performance: Especially noticeable if you’re on Nintendo Switch 2
- SplatNet 3 Improvements: Better weapon statistics and tracking
Staying Updated
To keep up with the latest Splatoon 3 news:
- Follow official Nintendo social media accounts
- Check the in-game news feed regularly
- Visit community sites like Inkipedia for detailed patch notes
- Enable push notifications for game updates on your Switch
The game remains actively supported with regular content updates, showing Nintendo’s continued commitment to the Splatoon franchise well into 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Splatoon 3 launched on September 9, 2022 for Nintendo Switch with regular content updates continuing through 2025.
- The Fresh Season 2024 update went live on March 1st, adding new weapons, stages, and customization options.
- Nintendo maintains an active community through regular Splatfests, seasonal events, and gameplay balancing patches.
Game Overview and Features
Splatoon 3 splashed onto the Nintendo Switch on September 9, 2022, bringing fresh ink battles to fans worldwide. The game continues the colorful, squid-based shooter franchise with new weapons, maps, and gameplay mechanics that build upon its predecessors’ success.
Nintendo released Splatoon 3 in September 2022 and continues to support it with regular updates and seasonal content. The latest major update, Fresh Season 2024, began on March 1st, introducing new gear, weapons, and battle stages to keep the gameplay experience exciting for both veteran players and newcomers alike.
The game features multiple play modes including the single-player campaign, traditional Turf War battles, and the cooperative Salmon Run mode. Nintendo’s commitment to ongoing support ensures that Splatoon 3 remains vibrant nearly three years after its initial release, with a thriving online community and regular in-game events that maintain player interest.
Splatoon 3 expands on its predecessors with a vibrant new setting and innovative gameplay elements. Released on September 9, 2022 for Nintendo Switch, the game offers fresh experiences while maintaining the ink-splatting action fans love.
Setting and Backstory
Splatoon 3 takes place in the Splatlands, a sun-scorched desert region inhabited by battle-hardened Inklings and Octolings. This harsh environment represents a significant shift from the urban settings of previous games. Players begin their journey in Splatsville, known as the “City of Chaos,” which serves as the central hub.
The story mode, “Return of the Mammalians,” introduces a mysterious new threat to the world. Players must explore the secrets of Alterna and investigate the reappearance of mammals, which had been thought extinct. The narrative revolves around strange Fuzzy Ooze that transforms creatures and threatens the established order.
Nintendo has crafted a deeper lore for this installment, with connections to previous games while establishing new mysteries for players to uncover.
New Gameplay Mechanics
Splatoon 3 introduces several exciting mechanics that refresh the gameplay experience. The bow-shaped weapon called the Stringers allows for new tactical approaches to combat. Players can now perform a “Squid Surge” to swim up walls faster and a “Squid Roll” to dodge enemy attacks while swimming.
Character customization offers more options than ever before. Players can choose between Inklings and Octolings with various hairstyles, eyebrows, and clothing options. The gear system has been expanded with new abilities and styles.
The game features “Little Buddy,” a small Salmonid companion that follows players through the story mode. This addition provides both narrative and gameplay benefits as it can assist during challenging encounters.
Modes of Play
Turf War remains the core competitive experience, where teams compete to cover the most ground with their ink. The classic 4v4 matches last three minutes, creating quick but intense battles.
Anarchy Battles (formerly Ranked Battles) include several objective-based modes: Splat Zones, Tower Control, Rainmaker, and Clam Blitz. These competitive modes feature skill-based ranking systems for players seeking more strategic challenges.
Salmon Run, the cooperative mode, returns with new Salmonid bosses and mechanics. Teams of four players work together to collect Power Eggs while surviving increasingly difficult waves of enemies.
The game introduces Table Turf Battle, a new card-based minigame that translates Splatoon’s ink-territory mechanics into a strategic card game. This offers a completely different way to enjoy the Splatoon universe.
Online Experience and Community Events
Splatoon 3 continues to thrive with its robust online features and community-driven events that keep players engaged long after release. Nintendo has prioritized creating meaningful social experiences for Inklings and Octolings alike.
Online Features and Nintendo Switch Online
Splatoon 3 requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access its multiplayer features. This subscription enables players to join online matches, participate in Salmon Run co-op mode, and access Tableturf Battle with friends.
The game offers several online lobbies where players can gather before battles. These include the main lobby for regular matches and a separate area for Salmon Run missions against the challenging King Salmonid bosses.
Nintendo has improved matchmaking since launch, grouping players of similar skill levels together. The Save Data Cloud functionality lets players back up their progress, ensuring fashion items and weapon loadouts remain safe.
The game supports Local Wireless play for up to eight players, perfect for small tournaments or friendly gatherings without an internet connection.
Splatfests and Player Engagement
Splatfests remain the crown jewel of Splatoon 3’s community events. These special weekend-long competitions divide players into three teams based on themed choices, transforming the game’s hub into a festive celebration.
The March 12, 2025 update (version 9.3.0) introduced quality-of-life improvements for Splatfests, enhancing the matchmaking system and team balance. Players earn special Sea Snails upon completion, which can be used to upgrade gear.
Fashion plays a significant role in community engagement, with players creating unique looks to showcase during these events. The community regularly shares outfits and strategies on social media platforms.
Nintendo continues announcing upcoming Splatfests through the Squid Research Lab updates on their official channels. These events consistently bring players back to the game and maintain Splatoon 3’s vibrant community atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about Splatoon 3, from its release date to new features and future updates. The game brings exciting content while building on what fans loved about previous titles.
When can players expect to see Splatoon 3 available for purchase?
Splatoon 3 was released on September 9, 2022, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch platform. The game has been available for purchase for over two years now.
Nintendo made the release date announcement several months before launch, giving fans time to prepare for the new installment in the popular series.
Players can find the game through the Nintendo eShop, major retailers, and gaming stores worldwide.
What new content and features does Splatoon 3 introduce?
Splatoon 3 introduces several new weapons including the bow-like Tri-Stringer and the melee-focused Splatana. The game features new special weapons and expanded customization options for players.
A single-player campaign called “Return of the Mammalians” provides a fresh storyline. The game also introduced Tableturf Battle, a new card-based minigame.
Salmon Run, the cooperative mode, returns as “Salmon Run Next Wave” with new bosses and features available at all times rather than on a schedule.
Will Splatoon 3 have any special editions or exclusive content at launch?
Splatoon 3 launched with a special edition Nintendo Switch OLED Model featuring a unique design with Splatoon themes. This special hardware included colorful Joy-Con controllers and a decorated dock.
A Splatoon 3 Pro Controller was also released, featuring the game’s distinctive art style and colors.
Pre-order bonuses varied by retailer but typically included exclusive in-game items or physical merchandise like stickers and keychains.
How does Splatoon 3 enhance the gameplay compared to previous titles?
Splatoon 3 refines the movement system with new squid surge and squid roll abilities, giving players more mobility options during matches. The matchmaking system has been improved to create more balanced teams.
The game features enhanced lobby systems and allows players to practice with weapons while waiting for matches to begin.
Customization options expanded significantly, with more detailed character creation and gear options than previous titles offered.
Are there any planned updates or expansions for Splatoon 3 after its initial release?
Nintendo continues to support Splatoon 3 with regular updates. The latest update, version 9.3.0, was released on March 12, 2025, adjusting specifications for various main and special weapons.
Two major expansions have been released for the game. These add substantial new content including additional single-player campaigns and exclusive gear.
Seasonal events and Splatfests continue to bring fresh content to players, maintaining an active community nearly three years after release.
What is the pricing structure for Splatoon 3 across different regions?
Splatoon 3’s standard edition retails for $59.99 USD in North America. European pricing typically runs around €59.99, while UK players can expect to pay approximately £49.99.
The Nintendo eShop occasionally offers sales on the digital version, especially around major gaming events or Nintendo Direct presentations.
Expansion content is sold separately, with each DLC pack having its own price point typically between $20-30 USD depending on the content amount.
