Let's dive into the vibrant world of Splatoon 3, a game that has captured the imagination of many and left me wondering why I hadn't jumped into this colorful chaos sooner.
A Late Arrival to the Ink-Splattered Party
I must admit, my journey to Splatoon 3 is a bit of a detour. Despite owning a Wii U, I somehow missed out on the original Splatoon, a game that has since become a beloved franchise. It's intriguing how certain gems can be stranded on consoles that didn't quite make it in the mainstream, isn't it?
The Allure of Alterna
Splatoon 3's campaign mode is a captivating adventure. Set in the distant world of Alterna, you navigate through snow-covered industrial islands, tackling challenges and clearing ooze with your trusty fish companion, Smallfry. Each mission is a creative puzzle, teaching you skills that will come in handy when you dive into the chaotic multiplayer modes.
Boss Battles and Beyond
The bosses in Alterna, led by the enigmatic Deep Cut band, provide an interesting challenge, though I found most of them a bit too straightforward. The story is simple yet enjoyable, and I can't help but think how much more immersive it could be with voice acting. It's a small detail, but it makes a big difference, especially when you're trying to navigate enemies and read conversations simultaneously.
Controls and Quirks
The analog controls in Splatoon 3 are a joy, especially with the Switch Pro Controller. However, jumping is a bit of a sore spot for me. I often found myself misjudging leaps due to apparent lag, which was frustrating, especially in a game that demands precision.
Visuals and Updates
Visually, Splatoon 3 is a treat, with vibrant colors and alluring graphics. I did experience some stuttering on my Switch 2, but a 2025 update from Nintendo improved the framerate and graphics for Switch 2 users, bringing it up to 4K/60fps in docked mode. It's a welcome improvement, especially for those who want to experience the game in all its glory.
The Multiplayer Madness
Now, the real challenge begins - the infamous multiplayer trenches. I've had a taste of the quick battles, and I'm in awe of the skill level of other players. There's a whole loot and upgrade system to explore, and I can't wait to dive deeper into this aspect, especially before tackling Splatoon Raiders.
A Journey into the Ink-Splattered Unknown
I've only begun to scratch the surface of Splatoon 3, and I'm excited to see what lies ahead. It's a game that offers a surprising depth and robustness, and I'm eager to improve my skills as an Octoling, an Inkling, or just an aging millennial trying to keep up with the younger generation's reflexes.
So, wish me luck as I embark on this colorful adventure!
Disclosure: Nintendo provided a review code for coverage purposes.
