Splatoon 3 Gets a Stunning Upgrade on Switch 2
▼ Summary
– Splatoon 3 originally impressed on the Switch with its vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay, defying hardware limits.
– The game received a significant update for the Switch 2, enhancing resolution, animations, and overall visual polish.
– Non-battle areas like Inkopolis now feel more alive, with smoother character movements and improved details.
– The update optimizes performance on both Switch versions, removing some background elements in competitive modes to maintain fairness.
– New remixed weapons and continued support highlight Splatoon 3’s longevity and Nintendo’s commitment to its player base.
Splatoon 3 has always pushed the Nintendo Switch to its limits, delivering vibrant visuals and fast-paced gameplay that felt tailor-made for the system. The game’s post-launch support, including frequent updates and a well-received DLC expansion, kept fans engaged long after its 2022 debut. Now, with the arrival of the Switch 2, an unexpected upgrade has given the ink-splatting shooter a fresh coat of polish, making it feel like a brand-new experience without requiring a full sequel.
One of the most noticeable improvements is the smoother framerate across all areas of the game. While battles already ran at a buttery 60fps on the original Switch, hub areas like Splatsville and Inkopolis now feel far more fluid. Character animations, once slightly stiff, now move with a natural grace, making the world feel more alive. The higher resolution also brings out finer details in clothing textures and environmental reflections, giving the game a sleeker, more modern look.
The visual upgrades aren’t just cosmetic, they enhance the social aspect of Splatoon 3. Since most characters in the hub areas are other players’ avatars, the sharper details make the community feel more vibrant. Walking through Inkopolis, it’s easy to spot messages from fellow players celebrating the update, reinforcing the game’s strong player base.
Loading times have also seen a significant reduction, getting players into matches faster than ever. Once in battle, the improvements become even clearer. Distant background elements, like cheering jellyfish spectators, animate more smoothly, though core gameplay remains unchanged to ensure fairness between Switch and Switch 2 players. Some competitive modes on the original Switch have had minor background details removed to maintain performance, but these tweaks don’t impact the fast-paced action.
Salmon Run benefits the most from the upgrade, with enemy animations running far more smoothly during chaotic waves. While coordinating with teammates against a rampaging Horrorboros remains a challenge, the improved clarity makes it easier to track the chaos.
The update also introduces new weapon kits, remixing fan-favorite gear with fresh sub-weapons to encourage different playstyles. For veterans, it’s a great reason to revisit old favorites, while newcomers have even more ways to jump into the action.
Rather than rushing out a sequel for the Switch 2’s launch, Nintendo has opted to enhance Splatoon 3 for all players, ensuring the game remains a standout title across both consoles. The improvements may not be revolutionary, but they’re more than enough to keep the ink flowing for years to come.
(Source: The Verge)
