Summary
Based on some recent datamines,Splatoon 3could potentially be reaching the end of an era, with a final major Splatfest possibly taking place this year.Splatoon 3first launched two years ago, and like its predecessors, has been kept fresh with free content updates. These usually include weapons, modes, and weekend-long events known as Splatfests that have players competing against each other based on their allegiance to a certain subject. Paid DLC has also been released in waves forSplatoon 3, such as the Side Order DLC that was released last year.
Splatoon 3’s 8.0.0 Updaterecently launched as well, and is one of the game’s biggest. It was released in time for the game’s 2024 Sizzle Season, which starts this month, and is the eighth season overall. Some of the changes include new gear, titles, banners, and more in the catalog, along with new weapons for players to use. However, some data found in this new update suggests the end may be near forSplatoon 3, in terms of major new content.
In a Twitter thread posted by Oatmeal Dome, they explain that a new Splatfest type was added in, according to a recent datamine. This Splatfest contains additional graphical features for a seasonal themed Splatfest, much like the Splatoween, Frosty Fest, Spring Fest, and the upcoming Summer Nights Fest. The most interesting part about this new Splatfest type is the codename of “Sand,” which is a key visual element inthe chaotic world ofSplatoon 3. Other smaller elements like a new hub and stain for players and NPC models were also found. However, the biggest discovery was the apparent schedule revolving around the three squid idol groups.
Splatoon 3’s Sand Splatfest Codename and Schedule, Explained
The schedule suggests that all three ofSplatoon 3’s idol groups, the Squid Sisters, Off the Hook, and Deep Cut, will be sharing the stage, rather than just being in their own hubs, unlike past Splatfests. One of the missing hubs being added after the release of the Side Order DLC a couple of months ago adds credence to this theory. With this in mind, fans may be seeing a final Splatfest based around sand in some way with all three groups performing in the near future.
One theory is that the final major Splatfest will take place in September, as the official word was thatSplatoon 3would get two years of content updates. If so, then this Splatfest could be the game’s last hurrah beforethe official reveal of Nintendo’s Switch successor console. Like the past Splatfests, this one could determine the direction of the nextSplatoongame for the Switch successor. That said, all of this is still speculation, so fans will need to wait until Nintendo reveals more.
Splatoon 3
WHERE TO PLAY
Enter 4-on-4* ink-slinging battles in this colorful action shooter packed with style and attitude. As a squid-like Inkling, quickly cover your surroundings (and opponents) in ink with wild weaponry and swim through your own color to sneak and splat. Dive into the fresh fun with family and friends and make waves as a team. Get splatted by an opponent? No sweat! The goal in Turf War is to cover the most ground, so respawn and jump back into the inky action.Keep it current with rotating items, seasonal catalogs, and special events: Variety is the spice of an Inkling’s life, so check out shops daily for a changing array of gear that is as fashionable as it is functional. Timed events like Splatfests bring different types of chaotic competition and content updates add even more weapons and stages. Earn points to get in-game items from season-specific catalogs to dress up your own personal locker and show your style.Use inky new abilities and weapons to compete, cooperate, or clear up the mystery of the Fuzzy Ooze: Dynamic new moves like the Squid Surge and Squid Roll will help you and your fellow Inklings cover more ground and avoid enemy ink. Take aim with the bow-like Stringer and get slash happy with sword-like Splatanas—these new weapon types join an arsenal of fresh special weapons and sub weapons, too. Work together to collect Golden Eggs and fend off brand-new swarms of invading Salmonids in the co-op Salmon Run mode. Tackle a solo adventure alongside a Smallfry companion to solve the mystery of the Fuzzy Ooze in the offline story mode.
