With Nintendo announcing the cessation of regular updates for Splatoon 3, the gaming community is abuzz with speculation about a possible sequel, Splatoon 4.
Nintendo Ends Updates for Splatoon 3
Splatoon 4 Release Rumors Swirl Amid End of an Era
Nintendo has officially declared the end of regular content updates for their acclaimed shooter game, Splatoon 3. However, this isn't a complete farewell; fans can still look forward to holiday events, as support for the game will persist for the foreseeable future.
Nintendo confirmed that seasonal festivities such as Splatoween and Frosty Fest, along with other events, will continue in Splatoon 3. Monthly challenges remain accessible for now, and updates for weapon adjustments and balance patches will be rolled out "as needed."
"After 2 INK-credible years of Splatoon 3, regular updates will come to a close," Nintendo stated on their X (formerly Twitter) account. "Don't worry! Splatoween, Frosty Fest, Spring Fest, and Summer Nights will continue with some returning themes! Updates for weapon adjustments will be released as needed. Big Run, Eggstra Work, and Monthly Challenges will continue for the time being."
The announcement came on the heels of Splatoon 3's Grand Festival event, which concluded on September 16. To celebrate, Nintendo released a nostalgic video revisiting past Splatfest events—themed battles where players choose sides and compete. The video showcased the idol group Deep Cut performing at the Grand Festival stage. "Thanks for holding down the Splatlands with us," Nintendo expressed, "it's been a blast!"Splatoon 3 hit the shelves two years ago on September 9. With Nintendo winding down active development, rumors about a sequel, Splatoon 4, are reigniting. The recent Grand Festival event has sparked speculation among fans, who believe they've spotted potential easter eggs or hints towards a new setting for the next installment.
In response to in-game screenshots of a city-like location shared beneath Nintendo's announcement, one fan speculated, "Doesn't look like Inkopolis. Perhaps the setting of Splatoon 4?" While some dismissed the significance, another fan pointed out, "The second one is just Splatsville, same model from the opening train cutscene," referencing the hub area in Splatoon 3.
Despite no official word on Splatoon 4, rumors have been circulating for months. Reports from earlier in the year suggested that Nintendo has begun development on the next Splatoon game for the Switch. The Grand Festival event, being Splatoon 3's final major Splatfest, has fueled fans' belief that Splatoon 4 might be imminent.
Historically, the Final Fests of previous Splatoon games have hinted at themes for their sequels. Splatoon 3's last event, themed around "Past, Present, or Future," could be a clue to what Splatoon 4 might explore. However, until Nintendo makes an official announcement, fans will have to wait patiently for news of a new Splatoon game.
