Nintendo has confirmed that Splatoon Raiders will launch for the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 23, 2026, featuring a single-player action-adventure focus. According to reports from Gamereactor, the company will host a dedicated Splatoon Raiders Direct on June 30, 2026, to provide further details, while simultaneously supporting the existing Splatoon 3 with a special in-game Splatfest scheduled for July 11–13, 2026.
What to Expect from the Splatoon Raiders Direct
The upcoming presentation on June 30 will focus primarily on the mechanics of Splatoon Raiders. Nintendo has signaled that this event will not include announcements regarding a future Splatoon 4, keeping the scope limited to the new title. The game shifts the franchise’s traditional focus toward a single-player adventure experience rather than the multiplayer-centric modes popularized by its predecessors.
How Splatoon 3 Remains Relevant on New Hardware
While Splatoon Raiders is designed for the Switch 2, current players are not being left behind. Nintendo confirmed that Splatoon 3, originally released in 2022, will be playable on the Switch 2 via a free software update. There is no native Switch 2 version of Splatoon 3 planned, but the update ensures the title remains functional on the new hardware. The mid-July Splatfest serves as a bridge, maintaining player engagement during the transition period between the current console generation and the new release.
Hardware Bundles and Accessories
Nintendo is rolling out new peripherals alongside the July 23 launch. While a specific console bundle featuring the Switch 2 and Splatoon Raiders is currently restricted to the Japanese market, global players will have access to new blue and yellow Joy-Con 2 controllers. These accessories will be available at retail starting the same day as the game’s release.
Comparison: Support for New vs. Existing Titles
| Feature | Splatoon Raiders | Splatoon 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Switch 2 | Switch / Switch 2 (via update) |
| Primary Focus | Single-player action | Multiplayer |
| Launch Date | July 23, 2026 | Available now |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a Splatoon 4 announcement soon?
No. According to Nintendo, the upcoming Direct is focused solely on Splatoon Raiders and does not include plans for Splatoon 4.
Can I play Splatoon 3 on the Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes. A free update allows Splatoon 3 to run on the Switch 2, though it is not a dedicated port.
When can I buy the new blue and yellow Joy-Cons?
The new Joy-Con 2 controllers are scheduled for release on July 23, 2026, alongside Splatoon Raiders.
Are you planning to pick up Splatoon Raiders on launch day, or are you sticking with Splatoon 3 for the upcoming Splatfest? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest hardware updates.
