Nintendo’s latest entry in the Splatoon series, Splatoon Raiders, marks a notable shift in focus from its previous titles by emphasizing a solo gameplay experience rather than multiplayer combat. Released for the upcoming Switch 2 platform, the game diverges from the series’ traditional player-versus-player format, centering instead on a single-player campaign with an expanded narrative.

In Splatoon Raiders, players assume the role of a cartoonish hybrid creature—part human, part squid—who finds themselves stranded with other squid-people and an excitable manta ray on a mysterious archipelago. The islands are populated by hostile fish-like creatures known as Salmonids, who appear to be guarding treasure caches. The player’s objective is to explore these islands, recover the treasure, upgrade their arsenal and equipment, and uncover the broader story behind the archipelago’s secrets.

Core gameplay mechanics maintain the series’ hallmark style, alternating between humanoid form for shooting and squid form for rapid movement through ink-covered terrain. This iteration introduces new gadgets and abilities aimed at enhancing combat strategy, giving players additional tools to manage increasingly intense encounters. The game balances its colorful, lighthearted aesthetic with moments of significant challenge, especially as players face large numbers of Salmonids amid chaotic ink-splattered battles.

While previous Splatoon games primarily engaged players through competitive online matches, Raiders’ departure from multiplayer modes invites a more narrative-driven, immersive solo adventure. Though the premise and visual style remain playful, the difficulty level expands to test players’ skills in ways comparable to more traditional military shooters.

The title is available for £49.99 and has been noted for delivering a fresh yet familiar experience to fans of the franchise. Its combination of unique character design, engaging mechanics, and a story-focused approach sets it apart within the genre, appealing to both longtime players and newcomers interested in a vibrant, challenging single-player shooter.