Nintendo has finally locked in a date for Splatoon Raiders, and yes, this one is built for Switch 2.
The new single-player focused action shooter will launch on 23 July, giving Nintendo’s next-gen console another colourful exclusive for the middle of the year. Instead of being a mainline Splatoon sequel, Raiders is a spin-off that shifts the spotlight away from the usual multiplayer chaos and into a more adventure-driven setup.
This time, players take on the role of a mechanic travelling across the mysterious Spirhalite Islands. Joining the journey are Deep Cut members Frye, Shiver and Big Man, the Splatoon 3 idol trio who already have a strong fanbase among Nintendo diehards.
A more solo-friendly Splatoon
Based on Nintendo’s description, Splatoon Raiders is not just “paint the floor and win” as usual. Players will be able to customise their character’s look and loadout before heading out to hunt treasure, fight enemies, clear raids and collect loot.
The enemy focus here includes Salmonids, which Splatoon fans will know from Salmon Run. Raiders seems to be leaning into a more PvE-style structure, with mechanical gadgets and ink weapons used to survive encounters across the islands.
For Malaysian and SEA players, this is the part that matters most: Splatoon has always been fun, but its competitive online side can feel intimidating if you are not grinding regularly. A Switch 2 Splatoon game with a stronger single-player angle could be a much easier entry point, especially for players who love the art style and music but do not want to kena stomped online every night.
It also gives Switch 2 owners something more distinct than another remaster or safe sequel. Nintendo’s launch-year software strategy will be watched closely here, especially by Malaysian buyers who usually have to think twice before jumping into new hardware early.
Deep Cut amiibo are coming too
Nintendo is also preparing new Deep Cut amiibo to go alongside Splatoon Raiders. The figures feature Frye, Shiver and Big Man, and their bases can connect together for easier display.
The triple pack will be available for pre-order “soon”, according to the announcement. No Malaysia-specific pricing or local availability was shared in the source material, so collectors here will probably need to keep an eye on the usual game shops, import retailers and regional online listings.
And honestly, these will likely move fast. Splatoon amiibo already have that collector pull, and Deep Cut’s design is exactly the kind of thing that looks good on a shelf beside your Switch dock.
Pre-orders and wider Nintendo rumours
Splatoon Raiders is available for pre-order through the Nintendo eShop. As always, Malaysian players may want to check which regional account they normally use before committing, since eShop access and pricing can vary depending on region.
Outside of Splatoon, Eurogamer also notes another Nintendo rumour: a Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is reportedly planned for Switch 2 around the festive season, potentially filling the space where some fans expected a new 3D Mario game.
For now, Splatoon Raiders is the confirmed one. If Nintendo can turn Splatoon’s style, music and ink-slinging combat into a proper solo adventure, this could be one of Switch 2’s more interesting early titles — especially for players who want the vibes without sweating through ranked matches.
Source: Eurogamer