When Nintendo launched Splatoon in , it catapulted the ink-splatting game into an environment rife with hostile players and graphic violence. Here was another online shooter, but one seemingly meant for children, with a cartoonish look and what amounts to ink-filled water guns instead of assault rifles and rocket launchers.
Seven years later, Splatoon 3 continues to draw fans as likely to celebrate their newest in-game fashion as they are a big win, in contrast to hyper-competitive shooters that once defined the genre. Splatoon tasks players with one goal: spraying their team's ink color over more of the arena's ground than the opposing team. They power up with stylish clothes and battle in arenas such as abandoned museums, old warehouses, and high-class hotels, accompanied by the songs of squid, octopus, and manta ray popstars.
Unlike Call of Duty , no one dies in Splatoon. There's no obligation to hurt other players, and the "guns" range from light zappers to paint brushes, bathtubs, and even windshield wiper blades. To put it simply, Splatoon has attracted a one-of-a-kind, welcoming community because it's good clean fun, despite all the ink.
He says the original Splatoon found its niche in Japan with its mechanics and style. The formula has enduring appeal. Splatoon 3 released on September 9 this year and broke sales records in Japan, becoming the fastest-selling game in that country. The series has a smaller but passionate fan base outside of Japan too.
Splatoon streamer ThatSrb2DUDE, who built a substantial following on Twitch and YouTube by streaming matches and posting video guides, says its first trailer in captivated him. Writer Madeline Blondeau also picked up the first Splatoon when it launched in , but for different reasons. I used to be a big Call of Duty girl, but Splatoon didn't make me feel as horrible for playing.
