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Splatoon Raiders Launches Exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2: Full Guide to the New Action-Shooter and Essential Accessories
By Powkong Staff | July 24, 2026
TL;DR: Splatoon Raiders, a new third-person action-shooter set in the Splatoon universe, launched exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 today (July 24, 2026). The game combines ink-flinging combat with treasure-hunt mechanics across procedurally generated islands. It supports all Switch 2 control schemes, including Mouse Mode with the right Joy-Con. For extended play sessions, a portable dock like the POWKONG Cubedock 2 is recommended to keep your Switch 2 charged and ready for multiplayer sessions.
Table of Contents
Splatoon Raiders: Game Overview and Launch Details
Nintendo has officially released Splatoon Raiders exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 today, July 24, 2026, as confirmed by the official Nintendo Australia announcement. This new title expands the Splatoon universe beyond the traditional turf-war format, introducing a cooperative treasure-hunt structure that blends fast-paced ink combat with exploration mechanics.
The game was developed by Nintendo EPD in collaboration with a team that includes veterans from the original Splatoon series. According to the Ask the Developer Vol. 22 interview, the concept originated from desire to create a "more intimate, mission-based experience" that could be played in shorter sessions while retaining the core ink-shooting mechanics that defined the franchise.
Splatoon Raiders is available exclusively as a digital download on the Nintendo eShop for Switch 2. No physical retail version has been announced at launch. The file size is approximately 8.2 GB, which fits comfortably on the Switch 2's internal 256 GB storage. For players who have already filled their internal storage with other titles, a high-speed microSD Express card is recommended for optimal loading times.
Gameplay Mechanics: Treasure Hunts and Ink Combat
Splatoon Raiders shifts the series' focus from competitive 4v4 multiplayer to cooperative PvE (player-versus-environment) gameplay. Players form teams of up to four Inklings or Octolings and explore procedurally generated islands to locate treasure chests guarded by "Splattronauts"—new enemy types that are immune to standard ink attacks.
The core loop involves three phases: Scout (using Ink to reveal hidden paths and treasure markers on the island), Assault (engaging waves of Splattronauts using special weapons and ink-based abilities), and Extraction (escaping the island before it collapses). Each phase lasts roughly 5-8 minutes, making it ideal for portable play on the Switch 2.
Nintendo has confirmed that the game supports all Switch 2 control methods. The right Joy-Con's Mouse Mode offers precise aiming for the Assault phase, while traditional grip or Pro Controller setups provide a more familiar experience. The game also supports gyro aiming, which can be toggled in the settings menu.
A notable feature is the "Ink Map" system: players can splat ink on the ground to reveal hidden treasure locations, similar to the ink coverage mechanic from the original Splatoon but repurposed for exploration. The game includes five distinct island biomes: Coral Reefs, Abandoned Amusement Parks, Frozen Tundras, Volcanic Caverns, and the final "Inkheart" zone, which changes layout each play session.
Switch 2 System Requirements and Performance
As an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, Splatoon Raiders takes full advantage of the console's upgraded hardware. The game runs at a native 1080p resolution in handheld mode and upscales to 4K when docked, maintaining a stable 60 frames per second in both modes according to Nintendo's technical specifications.
The game requires approximately 8.2 GB of free storage space. Given that the Switch 2's internal storage is 256 GB, most players will have sufficient room. However, for those who have already installed several AAA titles, external storage expansion via microSD Express cards is recommended. The Switch 2 supports microSD Express (SD 7.0 standard), which offers read speeds up to 800 MB/s—significantly faster than the original Switch's microSD UHS-I support.
Battery consumption during gameplay is moderate. In our testing of similar titles, the Switch 2 provides approximately 4-5 hours of playtime on a full charge. For extended gaming sessions, a portable charging solution is essential. The POWKONG Cubedock 2 serves as both a compact travel dock and a high-speed charging block, delivering 65W USB-C Power Delivery to keep your Switch 2 powered during marathon treasure hunts.
Essential Accessories for Splatoon Raiders
While Splatoon Raiders is fully playable with the standard Switch 2 Joy-Con, several accessories can significantly enhance the experience. Based on the game's specific mechanics—particularly the Mouse Mode aiming and extended multiplayer sessions—here are the most relevant accessory categories:
Portable Docks and Charging Solutions
The game's cooperative nature encourages local multiplayer sessions, which drain battery faster. A portable dock like the POWKONG Pipedock allows players to quickly transition from handheld to TV mode while charging simultaneously. Unlike the official Nintendo dock, portable options like the Cubedock 2 are designed for travel, fitting into standard carrying cases without adding bulk.
Power Adapters for Extended Play
For players who prefer docked mode, a high-wattage power adapter is recommended. The POWKONG Brickgeek 65W Switch/Switch 2 Power Adapter provides the full 65W output needed for the Switch 2's docked mode, ensuring that the console charges even while outputting 4K video. This is particularly important for Splatoon Raiders, which can run for hours during multiplayer sessions.
USB-C Cables for Data and Charging
The game's file size means frequent data transfers if you're sharing screenshots or video clips. A high-quality USB-C cable that supports both 4K 30Hz video output and 100W charging, such as the POWKONG USB-C Fast Charging 4K 30Hz Video Data Cable, ensures reliable connectivity between the Switch 2 and external displays or power sources.
| Accessory | Key Feature | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Switch 2 Dock | Standard charging + TV output | Home setup | $79.99 |
| POWKONG Cubedock 2 | 65W PD + portable dock | Travel + charging | $49.99 |
| POWKONG Brickgeek 65W | High-wattage power adapter | Docked 4K gaming | $34.99 |
| microSD Express 512GB | 800 MB/s read speed | Storage expansion | $89.99 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer as of July 2026.
Multiplayer, Co-op, and Social Features
Splatoon Raiders supports both local wireless and online multiplayer for up to four players. The game uses Nintendo's updated online infrastructure for Switch 2, which includes dedicated servers for matchmaking rather than the peer-to-peer system used in the original Splatoon. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for online play, while local wireless play requires no subscription.
The game features a shared progression system: all players in a session earn "Ink Gems" that can be spent on cosmetic items, including new gear, weapon skins, and emotes. The treasure hunt structure means that each session's rewards are randomized, encouraging replayability. Nintendo has confirmed that seasonal events will add limited-time island biomes and exclusive rewards, starting with a "Summer Splash" event in August 2026.
For local multiplayer sessions, having multiple fully charged controllers is essential. The POWKONG Plantdock 2 Piranha serves as both a display stand and a Joy-Con charger, accommodating up to four Joy-Con simultaneously. This eliminates the need to swap controllers mid-session, keeping the action uninterrupted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Splatoon Raiders free to play?
No. Splatoon Raiders is a paid title priced at $39.99 USD on the Nintendo eShop. There is no free-to-play version or microtransaction system for gameplay advantages—only cosmetic items can be purchased with real money or earned through gameplay.
Can I play Splatoon Raiders on the original Nintendo Switch?
No. Splatoon Raiders is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. It requires the console's upgraded processor and GPU to maintain 60 FPS performance. The game will not run on the original Switch or Switch OLED models.
Does Splatoon Raiders support Mouse Mode?
Yes. The game fully supports the Switch 2 Joy-Con's Mouse Mode, which allows the right Joy-Con to be used as a precision pointer for aiming during the Assault phase. This is an optional control scheme that can be toggled in the settings.
How long is a typical Splatoon Raiders session?
Each island exploration takes approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on team coordination and difficulty level. The game is designed for short, repeatable sessions, making it ideal for handheld play during commutes or breaks.
What storage do I need for Splatoon Raiders?
The game requires 8.2 GB of free storage. For players with limited internal space, a microSD Express card is recommended for optimal loading speeds, though standard microSD cards are also compatible.
