GameCentral went hands-on with Splatoon's first spin-off, Splatoon Raiders, for Nintendo Switch 2. The game is a single-player adventure starring the idol trio Deep Cut, but it feels more like a leftover from the Switch 1 era than a bold new step for the franchise.
Four years after Splatoon 3
It has been four years since Splatoon 3 launched, and content updates ended in 2024. Many expected Splatoon 4 to be among the first Switch 2 titles, given the series' popularity, especially in Japan. Instead, Nintendo opted for a single-player spin-off. During a preview session, Nintendo reps explained that Raiders aims to appeal to fans who enjoy Splatoon's world and characters but not the multiplayer.
Familiar mechanics, linear levels
Raiders controls identically to past games, with inking environments, swimming through ink, and shooting enemies. However, levels are linear with slight deviations for hidden treasure. Enemy gauntlets and challenge rooms mix things up, but no wholly new weapons were spotted. Sub-weapons are replaced by gadgets like a boomerang that leaves an ink trail and an auto-targeting turret. Deep Cut members accompany you in a mech, assisting in combat with unique special attacks, but cannot be controlled by a friend.
Extraction shooter meets roguelike
Though not officially described as such, Raiders has extraction shooter vibes: you gather resources and treasure to bring back to base. It also has roguelike elements: you fill an experience bar and keep some resources even if you fail a level. This prevents harsh punishment for suboptimal kit. Weapon variety and customisation options are plentiful, with different buffs and optional costumes. You can upgrade your base with features like training dummies, and Nintendo promises new lore for long-time fans.
Difficulty and co-op
The game can be tough, even on standard difficulty. Normal levels were manageable, but enemy gauntlets proved challenging even in four-player co-op. However, difficulty often comes from overwhelming swarms rather than clever design.
A safe, conservative spin-off
According to the preview, Splatoon Raiders is perfectly fine, but not the ambitious debut the franchise needs. Splatoon 3 already lacked new ideas, and Raiders appears similarly safe. Spin-offs can be a place for experimentation, but Raiders seems uninterested in breaking the formula. Ideally, it's a stopgap while Nintendo works on a more ambitious Splatoon 4, but no such game was mentioned for 2027 in the latest Nintendo Direct.
Splatoon Raiders launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 23, 2026, priced at £41.99.
