Splatoon 3 Updates End, Fans Await Splatoon 4

With Nintendo announcing the cessation of regular updates for Splatoon 3, the gaming community is abuzz with speculation about the imminent release of a sequel, Splatoon 4.

Nintendo Ends Updates for Splatoon 3

Splatoon 4 Release Rumors Swirl Amid End of an Era

Nintendo has officially announced that regular content updates for its acclaimed shooter game, Splatoon 3, will soon cease. However, fans can take heart in knowing that the game will not be entirely abandoned; holiday events will continue to be added, and support for Splatoon 3 will persist for the foreseeable future.

Nintendo confirmed that seasonal events such as Splatoween, Frosty Fest, and others will still feature in Splatoon 3. Monthly challenges will remain available, and weapon adjustments along with balance patches will be rolled out "as needed."

"After 2 INK-credible years of Splatoon 3, regular updates will come to a close," the announcement on Twitter (X) stated. "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."

Splatoon 3, which launched on September 9 two years ago, has now seen Nintendo stepping back from active development. This shift has reignited rumors about a sequel, specifically Splatoon 4.

While the recent Grand Festival event was enjoyed by players, some keen-eyed fans have noticed what they believe to be hints or spoilers embedded within the game. Certain locations featured during the event have led to speculation about a new setting for the next Splatoon installment.

In response to in-game screenshots of a city-like location shared under Nintendo's announcement, one fan speculated, "Doesn't look like Inkopolis. Perhaps the setting of Splatoon 4?" However, not everyone is convinced. Another fan pointed out, "The second one is just Splatsville, the same model from the opening train cutscene," referring to the hub area of Splatoon 3.

Although there has been no official word on Splatoon 4, rumors have been circulating for months. Earlier reports suggested that Nintendo has begun development on the next Splatoon title for the Switch. With the Grand Festival being Splatoon 3's final major Splatfest event, many fans believe that Splatoon 4 could be on the horizon.

Historically, each Splatoon game's Final Fest has influenced the theme of its sequel. Splatoon 3's last event hinted at a "Past, Present or Future" theme for Splatoon 4. For now, fans will have to wait for Nintendo to unveil any plans for a new Splatoon game.