With Nintendo announcing that it will end regular updates for Splatoon 3, rumors of an imminent sequel, aka Splatoon 4, spark up once again.
Nintendo Ends Updates for Splatoon 3
Splatoon 4 Release Rumors Swirl Amid End of an Era
Nintendo has officially announced the end of regular content updates for its award-winning shooter game, Splatoon 3. However, this isn't a complete farewell for the game's dedicated fans. Seasonal events like Splatoween and Frosty Fest will continue to bring joy, and holiday celebrations will still be part of the Splatoon 3 experience. Additionally, support for the game will persist with monthly challenges, weapon adjustments, and necessary balance patches.
"After 2 INK-credible years of Splatoon 3, regular updates will come to a close," stated the announcement on X (formerly Twitter). "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 followed the conclusion of Splatoon 3's Grand Festival event on September 16. Nintendo celebrated the end of this event with a nostalgic video, reflecting on the past Splatfest events where players competed in themed battles. The video highlighted the idol trio Deep Cut performing on the Grand Festival stage, with Nintendo expressing their gratitude: "Thanks for holding down the Splatlands with us, it's been a blast!"Splatoon 3, launched on September 9 two years ago, has now seen Nintendo stepping away from active development, fueling speculation about a sequel, specifically Splatoon 4. During the recent Grand Festival event, some fans believe they spotted hints or easter eggs that could point to future developments.
In response to in-game screenshots shared under Nintendo's announcement, which showcased a metropolis-like location, a fan speculated, "Doesn't look like Inkopolis. Perhaps the setting of Splatoon 4?" However, others argue that these images might not be significant, with one fan stating, "The second one is just Splatsville, same model from the opening train cutscene," referring to the hub area of Splatoon 3.
Although no official announcements have been made about Splatoon 4, rumors have been circulating for months. Reports suggest that Nintendo may have already begun development on the next Splatoon title for the Switch. With the Grand Festival being Splatoon 3's final major Splatfest event, many fans are hopeful that Splatoon 4 is on the horizon.
Historically, the final events of previous Splatoon games have influenced their sequels. Splatoon 3's last Splatfest, themed around "Past, Present or Future," could be a teaser for what's to come in Splatoon 4. For now, fans eagerly await any official word from Nintendo on the next installment in the beloved Splatoon series.
