Overview
- The game ships for Nintendo Switch 2 on July 23, 2026 and Nintendo published a Version 1.1.0 launch patch on July 22 that fixes bugs, adjusts music, and is required to access online features.
- Raiders translates Splatoon’s ink movement and squid transformation into a looter‑shooter loop of short, replayable raids, loot-driven progression, gadgets, and boss encounters.
- Players can tackle most missions solo or join up to three other players via local wireless or online co‑op, and the design emphasizes approachability rather than live‑service monetization.
- Early reviews are generally positive with a Metacritic around 80 and praise for weapon feel and progression, while a minority of critics call the game repetitive or underwhelming visually.
- Nintendo EPD says Raiders was built as a standalone experiment after prototyping a trap/base‑defense idea and that competitive Splatoon development remains planned, a move that could broaden entry points to the franchise.