Splatoon Raiders drops July 23 on Nintendo Switch 2

Deep Cut members Shiver, Frye, and Big Man standing behind an Inkling mechanic in a jungle setting for Splatoon Raiders.
Shiver, Frye, and Big Man are trading the news desk for the Spirhalite Islands in Splatoon Raiders.

By Jon Scarr

Splatoon Raiders is officially coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on July 23, 2026. This isn't just another turf war. I’ve been a fan of this series since the original game on the Nintendo Wii U, and for years I’ve wanted a dedicated single-player experience like this. Nintendo's next entry shifts the focus toward a standalone adventure that looks like a massive departure for the Splatoon series. I've been waiting to see how the series would evolve on the new hardware, and this treasure-hunting setup looks like a great addition to the Nintendo Switch 2 first-party lineup.

Diving into the Spirhalite Islands Lore

The Splatoon universe is full of hidden history, and the Spirhalite Islands seem like the perfect place to explore it. You'll take on the role of a mechanic exploring this strange new region on Nintendo Switch 2. These islands are home to scores of Salmonids (the series' fish-like enemies) and hidden scrap.

The game lets you customize your appearance and loadout before you head out on raids. You'll use mechanical gadgets and ink weapons to fight through enemies and salvage treasure. Seeing how this role fits into the broader world is a big draw for long-time fans who enjoy the deeper story.

Deep Cut Joins the Front Lines

You won't be raiding alone. Shiver, Frye, and Big Man from the band Deep Cut are joining the fight. They're musicians by trade but swashbucklers in this game. One member of the trio will even jump into a heavy-duty bot to help you during raids.

It's great to see these characters getting more screen time outside of the news desk. Their new gear looks fantastic, and the idea of a pop idol piloting a combat bot is exactly the kind of weird energy this series needs.

Shiver, Big Man, and Frye from Deep Cut standing on a wooden pier in their new Splatoon Raiders outfits.
The members of Deep Cut are ready for adventure on the Spirhalite Islands.

Amiibo and Online Teamwork

Nintendo is also dropping new Deep Cut amiibo on July 23 to match the game's release. These figures show off their distinct looks from the islands. The focus is on the single-player experience, but you can still team up with three friends online or through local wireless. Pre-orders are live today on the Nintendo eShop for the Nintendo Switch 2. 

Splatoon Raiders looks like a huge win for anyone who has been asking for more story-driven content in Inkopolis.

The official Splatoon Raiders amiibo 3-pack packaging featuring Shiver, Big Man, and Frye.
This Deep Cut 3-pack amiibo drops alongside the game on July 23.

 


About the author
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Jon Scarr

4ScarrsGaming Owner / Operator & Editor-in-Chief

Jon covers video game news, reviews, industry shifts, cloud gaming, plus movies, TV, and toys, with an eye on how entertainment fits into everyday life.

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