Squid game
It is hard to believe that the Splatoon series from Nintendo is now over a decade old. When it was originally introduced, I was always curious how its online focus would land with fans seeing as Nintendo mostly excelled at making single player titles. Well, ten years later the game is still in rotation, and fans seem to love it. I never got into it as I don’t play a lot of online games, so when Splatoon Raiders was announced, my ears perked up. I always liked the idea and the game play but never cared to invest in strictly PvP.
Splatoon Raiders takes the idea of the series and puts it into an action RPG that is focused on going to different areas, mowing down enemies, and collecting loot. The loop of finding new items, upgrading gear, and revisiting areas are very addictive. The idea of Nintendo building a semi-looter shooter is appealing, and they really nailed it here. I found myself going back to older areas in the endgame just to collect more loot. It is a very addictive loop.
MSRP: $59.99 (physical) $49.99 (digital)
Platforms: Switch 2
Price I’d Pay: $49.99
The premise is that series mainstays are visiting the Spirhalite Islands to hunt for treasure. Players take on the role of the Mechanic, who is an empty palette for the player to customize. There is a plot here, and I have always respected the fact that Nintendo somehow makes this lore work. Familiar faces also show up such as Shiver, Frye, and of course Big Man. The plot revolves around them visiting these islands to mow down Salmonids and of course find the treasure. They are working to pay off Splatville’s massive debt. It is a catalyst, but it works. I do wish Nintendo would streamline their dialogue though; this is yet another game that doesn’t know when to shut up.
The game play in Raiders is fairly similar to what is found in the PvP games. All of the familiar weapons make a return, but they have their own visual style. This is a junker theme, so weapons are duct taped together with stuff found laying around. It is a small touch, but one I appreciated. The biggest change here is in the form of ink tanks. These are what define the classes in the game. There are three types, Speed, Power, and Tactical. These are similar to other RPG classes and can be swapped at any time.
Depending on which type of ink tank you equip will determine what gadgets can be used, and these are what make up the diversity of the game play. These gadgets are also kind of what define the game itself. Each class has its own style and should be familiar to anyone who has ever played an RPG. The Speed tank offers up things like a grappling hook that are designed to move around the map faster. The Power lets players deal more damage, and of course my favorite the Tactical one allows for making space. The game not only offers these options but actively encourages swapping between them. It adds diversity to the game and opens up fun combos when playing with friends.
Yes, Raiders features a full-on co-op mode, which is essential for these kinds of games. Teaming up with friends just enhances the fun. The game supports up to four players and is easy to jump in and out of. I also appreciate the fact that each player earns their own loot and gets to keep their progress, something that should be automatic, but so many games miss. There is also level-scaling, which is great. The more players in the mix, the more the challenge increases. This makes playing solo and together different experiences.
The levels themselves also have themes. There are five in total, with each one offering up a unique challenge. There are straight ahead levels where it feels like the goal is to wipe out everything. There are timed dungeons, and even themed dungeons with specific enemy types. There is even a resource management type, where you have to mine crystals for currency. The variations are appreciated and create a pace to this game that just makes you want to play, just one more level.
Visually, the game looks amazing. The Switch 2 is a really capable device and Nintendo are masters at visual design and optimization. The game runs wonderfully and I love the design of the worlds and weapons. Everything is big and colorful and feels unique. The music has never hit for me, and I despise the voice work, but it is well-made.
Splatoon Raiders is my favorite game in the franchise and a wonderful trek into a new genre. I am glad Nintendo finally created a game that can be enjoyed without having to play online. I have always enjoyed the idea of Splatoon, just not its format. Playing with friends only enhances the experience, but it is just as fun when raiding solo. Definitely pick this one up, one of the best Switch 2 exclusive games so far.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
