Nintendo built its legacy on big names like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, but for the Switch 2 to feel like a true generational leap, it needs to move past relying on those and start taking bold new risks.
The first Splatoon on Wii U came across as new, quirky, and exciting in ways that surprised even the most dedicated fans. Nearly a decade later, the Switch 2's launch lineup lacks that very same vibe.
So far, Nintendo's next-gen rollout feels safe. Titles such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are front and center, but they’re built on franchises that have been part of the company’s identity for decades. They’re familiar—too familiar, actually, and that’s the problem.
Why Do People Like Splatoon?
Splatoon is loved because it's not a spin-off from a Mario title or similar. It didn’t come from decades of sequels or recycled mascots. This came from Nintendo stepping outside its comfort zone and exploring new creative ground.
It is a team-based shooter drenched in neon ink with bizarre lore, stylish idols, and a vibe completely separate from the rest of Nintendo’s catalog.
That fresh approach made it unforgettable right away, and the way it grew a lively, dedicated community with Splatfests and online updates is exactly the kind of lasting engagement Nintendo should aim to bring back.
Is Splatoon 4 Coming To Switch 2?
Contrary to fan hopes, Splatoon 4 didn’t make the Switch 2 launch, and Nintendo didn’t even tease it. The only hints showed up in background music or vague Reddit rumors.
According to fans digging through hints and analyzing leaks, the most likely scenario is that the next Splatoon title is in development but being saved for a separate reveal—possibly a major Direct later in 2025.
The devs are likely taking their time, which makes sense. The next Splatoon can’t just be more of the same. It has to move the series forward.
Will Splatoon Get A Switch 2 Version?
Ideally, yes—but when you get to it, it’s not so simple. Splatoon 3 is compatible with the Switch 2, thanks to backward compatibility. But upgrading it with better visuals or higher frame rates could ruin the competitive balance between players on different hardware.
Nintendo seems to be avoiding that issue by keeping things even across both consoles. That means no Switch 2-specific performance patches for Splatoon 3, which brings us back to the real solution: a new game.
What Do Fans Actually Want from Splatoon 4?
The wishlist is long, with top requests including slower-paced maps to encourage strategy, richer story content, new idols with unique twists (some asking for a male duo), fully customizable weapon kits, and mouse support.
Others are hoping for player apartments, improved PvE-like co-op story missions, and more local multiplayer options like split-screen Turf Wars. If Nintendo takes even half of these ideas seriously, Splatoon 4 could become the bold, experimental experience the Switch 2 needs.
Local multiplayer in Splatoon has also been a long-time fan request, and the Switch 2’s improved hardware at last makes it a reality. We’re talking about couch co-op in Turf War, Salmon Run with friends on the same screen, and even co-op campaigns. A four-player Splatoon story mode could draw attention and attract newcomers to the franchise.
Why Does Splatoon Deserve the Spotlight Over Mario?
Let’s be real—Splatoon is now one of Nintendo’s core franchises, especially in Japan, and it should get as much love as Mario or Zelda. Mario’s place in gaming is locked in, and he’s here to stay. His games will keep selling no matter what.
For the Switch 2 to stand out beyond hardware improvements, Nintendo has to prove it’s ready to take bold creative chances. That means bringing fresh ideas and new IPs to the forefront.
Splatoon showed Nintendo can create a modern, stylish multiplayer game that stands out by itself. This time around, the Switch 2 deserves attention for something fresh; it’s not another Mario but a new Splatoon that it needs.
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