Introduction & Context
Released in July 2017, Splatoon 2 arrived early in the Nintendo Switch's lifecycle, carrying the torch from its critically acclaimed 2015 Wii U predecessor. As a third-person shooter that replaces bullets with bright paint, Splatoon 2 solidified Nintendo's place in competitive multiplayer gaming while offering a stylish, family-friendly alternative to traditional shooters.
Developer and Platform Availability
Developer: Nintendo EPD (Entertainment Planning & Development)
Publisher: Nintendo
Platforms: Exclusively playable on the Nintendo Switch.
Crafted by Nintendo EPD, Splatoon 2 was tailored to leverage the hybrid capabilities of the Nintendo Switch, allowing smooth performance whether playing docked on a TV or portable on the go.
Story and Narrative
Set two years after the events of the original game, Splatoon 2 takes players to Inkopolis Square. The single-player campaign begins with the mysterious disappearance of Callie, one half of the famous Squid Sisters pop duo, along with the Great Zapfish that powers the city.
Playing as Agent 4, you are guided by Marie through the single-player Octo Canyon campaign to rescue Callie and stop the Octarian army led by DJ Octavio. The narrative is lighthearted and rich with world-building, further expanded by the acclaimed Octo Expansion DLC, which added a deeper, darker storyline featuring Agent 8.
Graphics, Sound, and Aesthetic
Visually, Splatoon 2 is a stunning showcase of color and style. The game targets a smooth 60 frames per second during gameplay, featuring glossy ink effects, slick urban streetwear design, and highly expressive character animations. Coupled with an energetic soundtrack featuring fictional in-game bands like Off the Hook and Wet Floor, the presentation is immaculate.
Key Features & Gameplay
- Turf War: The main 4v4 casual battle mode where the goal is to ink as much territory as possible.
- Salmon Run: A popular 4-player cooperative survival mode where players fight off waves of Salmonids to collect Golden Eggs.
- Ranked Battle Modes: Includes Splat Zones, Tower Control, Rainmaker, and Clam Blitz for competitive play.
Final Verdict & Recommendation
Splatoon 2 stands out as one of the most inventive and polished shooter titles on any console. Its unique ink-swimming mechanics, high aesthetic polish, and engaging game modes make it a must-play title for action fans.
Final Recommendation: Highly Recommended for all Nintendo Switch owners looking for a fresh, fast-paced, and charming multiplayer or single-player experience.
