Squid Research Lab/Archive/2016

This is an archive of all the posts from the Live from Squid Research Lab Tumblr. It is a direct copy of the source material, and as such, any errors are retained. Tumblr tags are designated with a box around it:.

January


2016 New Year’s Resolution: Make sure the intern you hired to post over the holidays doesn’t forget to do just that. …Ahem.

Now that we’re all back to our designated posts, may I present:

(NOT) BREAKING NEWS FROM THE SQUID RESEARCH LAB:



Piranha Pit has been added to the map rotation!



The Octobrush Nouveau is now available for purchase!

2016-01-05

@3drod

Adorbs!

2016-01-07









NEW WEAPON INK-COMING!

The Sloshing Machine Neo will be available tonight!

2016-01-08



Breaking news from the Squid Research Lab: We’ve just received this exclusive photograph that shows a dinosaur marching onto the set of Futurama. This can only mean one thing: IT’S SPLATFEST TIME!

Beginning tomorrow, head to the Inkopolis Plaza to vote on our newest theme: Would you rather travel to the past or the future? We realize this is a tough decision, so we’ve made a pros and cons list for you to consider:

Past Pros:


 * Dinosaurs are totally sweet.
 * It’s easier to stay on your Paleo diet in the Paleolithic era.
 * Caveman fashion was pretty fresh, assuming The Flintstones is an accurate documentation.

Past Cons:


 * Dinosaurs might eat you.
 * No burgers OR pizza.
 * Your mom might ask you to be her date to the Enchantment Under the Sea dance.

Future Pros:


 * Your best friend could be a robot.
 * Holodecks provide hours of entertainment, all without needing to leave your house!
 * Transportation potentially seems cooler: Rocketships? Scotty beaming you up?

Future Cons:


 * Robots might have gained intelligence and decided they’re not friendly.
 * What happens if your transporter makes a mistake and mixes you up with someone else? I think we’ve all seen The Fly enough times to know what could happen…
 * All food now comes in the form of an affordable and widely available pill, BUT IT’S ONLY AVAILABLE IN SQUID FLAVOR.

2016-01-08

@nintendo

We’re happy to announce that the new Nintendo Tumblr has received the Squid Research Lab Seal of Approval.

(It’s this seal.)

2016-01-11

@lopuiiart

You’re not wrong!

2016-01-13

@saintbullart

We agree.

2016-01-14

A new stage, Ancho-V Games, is joining the rotation tomorrow (1/21) at 6:00 pm PT. The setting this time around is inside the offices of the developers of hit indie games like “Squid Jump.” Keep an eye out for some of the jellyfish development team, hard at work (and under a strict NDA!) on their next title. Hope they don’t mind the mess!

One feature of this stage are the PC-fan shaped propellers that can be inked to move portions of the floor. Use these to exploit the stage’s verticality and gain the high ground over your opponents. What role do these things play in game development, anyway?

HORIZONTAL 😯



VERTICAL 😍



Also, this will be the last of the new stages to be added. Do you have any faves? You may find that you can change your impression of stages that aren’t your favorite by changing the ways you move through them. Study the maps using the “Recon” mode and create your own patterns of attack. That will help you gain the advantage in any battle situation.









Do whatever it takes to make your time battling as fun as possible! The good times don’t end here, friends!

2016-01-20

February
@cosplay-soul

This Inkling cosplay by Yakuzi on World Cosplay is so fresh!!

2016-02-03

2016-02-18



Pokémon Splatfest scores are in:

Japan : Green defeated Red 423-277 Americas: Blue defeated Red 399-301 Europe: Blue defeated Red 378-322

Green & Blue claimed victory with a total win score of 3-0!

2016-02-22



It’s no secret that the Inklings are some of the best dressed squids in this (or any other) universe. In fact, those of you diligent enough to have found the Sunken Sea Scrolls may already know that the Inkopolis Collection fashion show happens twice a year!

We’re pleased to bring you Inkling Fashion Week* – a Squid Research Lab Special Report. After months of painstaking research, we’ll be sharing more information about the freshest fashion and trendiest brands in Inkopolis in order to help our squid fam keep it lit!** Check back tomorrow for our first fashion spread!

''*Inkling Fashion Week will run longer than a week. The Squid Research Lab maintains all rights to use the word “fresh” too frequently.''

**We’re told that a number of today’s youths use this expression although we have still not been able to ascertain the definition.

2016-02-22



Fans of Zink appreciate the detailed stylings and air of sophistication. From uniforms to sneakers, Zink keeps inklings looking fresh in sportswear from H2T (that’s head to toe, for those of you that don’t watch Inkopolis’ Next Top Model).

On Models: Golf Visor – Run Speed Up Zink LS – Special Duration Up Red Hi-Horses – Ink Saver (Main)

2016-02-23



If you’re looking for the hottest milliner in all of Inkopolis, look no further than Skalop! While they make many types of headgear, their fitted caps have been an especially big hit. Word on the street is that the freshest squids leave the logo sticker right on the bill!

On Model: Streetstyle Cap – Ink Saver (Sub) Squidvader Cap – Special Charge Up Urchins Cap – Bomb Range Up Mint Tee – Defense Up

2016-02-24



Though known primarily for their sneakers, Takoroka decks out their fans in the sportiest looks of the season! Takoroka has found a following among young squids who aren’t quite feeling any ol’ gear – and can make any Inkling feel like singing Ole, Ole, Ole in no time!

On Models: Left Takoroka Mesh – Defense Up Slipstream United – Defense Up LE Soccer Cleats – Ink Resistance Up

Right FC Albacore – Damage Up Soccer Cleats – Bomb Sniffer

2016-02-25



The Firefin logo, a stylized blowfish, has long been a favorite of squid-hop set and anyone else who likes to keep it 100. Fans dig the loose fit and laid-back vibe that has become Firefin signature. Did you know that Firefin fans are up to ten times more likely to take selfies in front of graffiti while gazing into the distance?

On Models: Left FishFry Visor - Special Charge Up Camo Zip Hoodie – Quick Respawn

Right Jungle Hat - Ink Saver (Main) Baseball Jersey - Special Charge Up

2016-02-26



Call the fashion police! Because this Inkling is killing it in a down vest and hiking boots by outdoor clothing label Inkline. While this brand specializes in high-quality all-weather gear, their look is also highly sought after by even the most fashionable squids, shrimp, and jellyfish.

On Model: Short Beanie - Ink Saver (Main) Mountain Vest - Swim Speed Up Pro Trail Boots - Bomb Sniffer

2016-02-26



Krak-On is one of the older fashion houses in Inkopolis and has quickly become popular with squids who can effortlessly mix grandpa’s hand me downs with more cutting edge new pieces. Krak-On’s Basics line is a favorite across multiple generations of Inklings.

On Models: Left Full Moon Glasses - Quick Super Jump Squidstar Waistcoat – Cold Blooded Red Hi-Tops - Ink Resistance Up

Right Rodeo Shirt - Quick Super Jump Choco Clogs - Quick Respawn

2016-02-27



Famous for bold neon colors and stylish, high-tech shoe designs, any squid wanting the latest in fresh footwear loves Tentatek! If you’re looking for a combination of fashion-forward design AND performance, look no further than the eye-popping designs of Tentatek!

On Models: Left Tennis Headband – Comeback Black Squideye - Run Speed Up Neon Sea Slugs - Ink Resistance Up

Right Sun Visor - Bomb Range Up Sky-Blue Squideye - Cold Blooded Pink Trainers - Bomb Range Up

2016-02-28



Forge has blazed a path as one of the first fashion brands in Inkopolis to blend utilitarian military looks with high fashion! Fans of the brand often hang out with one another in gatherings informally known as a Military School of Fish.

On Models: Left Skull Bandana – Special Saver Forge Octarian Jacket – Haunt

Right Special Forces Beret - Opening Gambit Forge Inkling Parka - Run Speed Up

2016-02-29

March


We’ve learned that a number of different fashion brands compete for the hearts and wallets of Inkopolis’s youth. Zekko brand streetwear is but one of those brands. Zekko’s clothes are known for a rough-around-the-edges look that’s popular with the skate-punk crowd. A lot of up-and-coming Turf War players wear this brand into battle!

On Model: Zekko Mesh - Quick Super Jump Black LS - Quick Super Jump Blue Lo-Tops – Defense Up

2016-03-01



The SquidForce logo tee is one of the most iconic in Inkling fashion. At one point, it became so popular that it was made the official brand for Turf War battles! With smart, simple designs and practicality in function, you can be sure any squid who’s stepped on the battlefield has worn SquidForce at some point.

On Models: Headgear White Headband - Ink Recovery Up

Shirts Camo Layered LS – Special Charge Up White Layered LS – Special Saver Basic Tee – Quick Respawn Black Anchor Tee – Recon

2016-03-02



Breaking news from the Squid Research Lab! Following the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, we learned that distribution of additional updates for Splatoon will be continued for a little longer. We hope you’re looking forward to these updates from now through this summer. The first update arrives next week, on March 8th!

The first update will include the adjustment of some Gear Abilities, as well as additional Splatfest elements. For full deets, check out the support page!

2016-03-03

2016-03-17



♫ Do you want to build a snowman? It doesn’t have to be a snowman – it could be a sandcastle! The snow-sand grudge match Splatfest starts tonight at 9 PM PT, and alongside it, we’re introducing the Splatfest Top 100!

What is the Splatfest Top 100? Starting from Splatfest this weekend, the top 100 players in each team will be praised as the “Splatfest Top 100”. Technically, 200 players will earn the honor – since the top 100 from each side will be tallied, but who’s counting, right? Rankings will be based on players’ Splatfest Power earned throughout the duration of Splatfest.

How can you tell who makes the Top 100? There will be an update on the SplatNet stat-tracking site, where you will be able to see your Splatfest Power ranking.



If you’re in the Top 100, you’ll see a sweet trophy icon next to your name. You won’t be seeing our intern Milton’s name here, that’s for sure! (That’s because he’s on spring break, not because he’s still sporting a spectacular C- in Ranked Battle.)



After Splatfest is over, you can tweet the image just like other rankings.



In addition, after Splatfest has concluded, we’ll have our Squid Research Lab interns post a report here at the Squid Research Lab that lists all Top 100 players from each team. We hope to see your name in the Top 100!

2016-03-18



Team Sandcastle really heated things up over the weekend… causing Team Snowman to melt into a lukewarm puddle of losing.

Anywho, meet your Splatfest Top 100!







My, there certainly are some interesting names on this list! Anyone that thinks we don’t post enough dank memes should take a glance at Team Sandcastle.

2016-03-22

April


[Public Squid Announcement!] The Ver. 2.7.0 Update will be released on the evening of April 12th. Hey, that’s next week! As usual, check out here for the full deets of what’s included.

In preparation for this update, the Splatoon server will be under maintenance from 4:50 PM PT – 6:00 PM PT on April 12, and during this time, Splatoon’s online services will be unavailable.

Also coming the evening of April 12 at 7 PM PT are eight weapons, known as Sheldon’s Picks Vol. 1. Let’s take a sneak peek at a few of  ‘em before they become available in Ammo Knights!

2016-04-07



2016-04-21



Do you smell it? That smell. A kind of smelly smell. The smelly smell that smells… like Splatfest.

The SpongeBob Splatfest begins 4/22 Saturday and will run all day Saturday and Sunday! Which will you choose: SpongeBob or Patrick?

2016-04-22



Congrats to Team Patrick! Time to celebrate your victory! (Please remember that mayonnaise is not an instrument.)





2016-04-25

https://youtu.be/jOtjUG5PXlE

Our HQ in Japan just sent us a link to a recording of Callie and Marie performing for their fans at the Chokaigi gaming festival.

You can check it out here.

Spoiler Alert: They debut new songs!

2016-04-30

https://youtu.be/VP3CPiSOBRs

LATE NIGHT BREAKING NEWS! We’ve just learned that there are new Splatoon amiibo launching on July 8!

Callie and Marie join the lineup! Apparently you can use ‘em in-game to see fresh performances.

Also launching the same day are new colors of Inkling Girl, Inkling Boy, and Inkling Squid amiibo figures. Rock!

2016-04-30

May


First, there was Splatoon in Miitomo! Well now, there’s Miitomo in Splatoon!

Our next Splatfest theme is brought to you by Miitomo! Would you rather go to fancy party or a costume party? Head to Inkopolis Plaza and cast your vote for the next Splatfest!

…and since it’s a party, this Splatfest will be held simultaneously in all regions! For the first time ever, players in all regions will be matched up to play in Splatfest – and the results will be global.

The party starts 5/13 at 8 PM PT and ends at 3 AM PT on 5/15. When it’s time to party we will party hard!

2016-05-05

@lexatan

We are all Team Hot Dog Squid, but you must decide if you are Team Fancy Party or Team Costume Party.

2016-05-10

Congrats to Team Fancy Party (AKA Black Tie in Europe)! Check out your global Splatfest Power Top 100 as well!

2016-05-16



Splatoon officially celebrates its first anniversary this weekend in North America! So many great things happened within a year, thanks to all of you!

We sincerely appreciate your support, and we hope you continue to enjoy Splatoon.

2016-05-28



The long-awaited release of Sheldon’s Picks Vol. 2 is finally confirmed! Coming the evening of June 7th, we heard that the new weapon combinations may allow you to discover even more new battle strategies. We’ll let you know more details on the upcoming weapons once Sheldon gives us more info!

2016-05-28

June


Squid Research Lab PSA: In case you missed it, we’re happy to announce that the upcoming 2.8.0 update, arriving the evening of June 7, will include 9 new weapon combos known as Sheldon’s Picks Vol.2. This update will also include some weapon balance adjustments, along with bug fixes.

Please note that due to the update, server maintenance is scheduled to occur from 5:50 PM – 7 PM PT on Tue, June 7th.

2016-06-02









Leading up to June 7, we’ll be counting down by previewing Sheldon’s new weapon combos one by one.

Introducing the Grim Range Blaster: a Range Blaster remodeled by Sheldon! Inklings have described it as “totally metal.” Between the Burst Bombs sub and the explosive main, it’s truly an aggressive set capable of dispatching opponents with frightening speed.

2016-06-03





SPLATFEST DRAWS NEAR! See what some of your fellow Squid Kids have posted on Miiverse!

2016-06-24







Congrats to Team Night Owl!

2016-06-27



[PSA] The Splatoon server will be under maintenance from around 4 PM PT - 7 PM PT today, and the online service may not be available during this time. We appreciate your understanding.

Also, we don’t forget to pick up your Super Sea Snails from Splatfest (once the servers are back up!)

2016-06-27





We’ve had 15 inkredible Splatfests so far! While the good times in Inkopolis will continue to roll on, the next Splatfest will be… drumroll, please… the final Splatfest.

Time and time again, we’ve heard you pledge allegiance not to your favorite team choice, but to your favorite Squid Sister. Now, it’s time to show your support in the Squid Sisters Showdown! The theme is: Are you Team Callie or Team Marie?

The showdown begins at 2 AM PT on Friday, July 22, until 2 AM PT on Sunday, July 24. This will be the last Splatfest extravaganza, and we’d like everyone to have a blast!

The last Splatfest will be taking place (almost) at the same time in all regions. However the matchups will be different – the players in Japan will be matched up with those in Japan, and the players in North America and Europe will be matched up with each other. The Top 100 Players will also be tallied and announced separately for Japan region and for North America and Europe regions. Though the results will be collected from all regions, they will be combined together and announced at the same time.

In-game announcement and voting will start at 7 PM PT on Monday, July 4. Until then, please prepare yourself for the hardest decision you’ll make in your lifetime by doing some soul searching, going on a walkabout, meditating or just reading Squid Sisters fan fiction.

2016-06-29



Oh yeah, we forgot to mention one thing! The last Splatfest stages will be decided based on your votes! Please vote using the email being sent to Splatoon players with Nintendo Network IDs…coming to inboxes soon! The vote ends on Tuesday, July 12th.

2016-06-29



Leading up to the last Splatfest, the Art Academy Miiverse community is hosting the “Best of the ‘fests Drawing Event!” Take a stroll down memory lane and celebrate all of YOUR favorite moments from Splatfests past! Create a drawing showing your favorite Splatfest memory and join in the fun on Miiverse! Some artwork will be displayed here at the Squid Research Lab, and might even be included in a video we’re working on.

Check out MariChan’s post in the Art Academy Miivese community for more information. The event will last until Wednesday, July 13th.

2016-06-30

July
We’ve just received this dispatch straight from Paris! Callie and Marie are preparing for their concert at Japan Expo by taking in the beautiful sights of the city.

2016-07-07

@animalcrossing

2016-07-07



Please welcome the newest Splatoon amiibo to the squad!

2016-07-08



Overnight, a new software update was released for Splatoon – Version 2.10.0. This update fixed an issue during multiplayer matches in which players were appearing to float in space outside the stage terrain. Awkward!

For more information on the software update, check out details here. You can also catch up on Version 2.9.0 updates, which include new amiibo support!

2016-07-08

https://youtu.be/VP3CPiSOBRs

Today marks the day that Callie & Marie amiibo figures are available! Tapping them in turns Inkopolis Plaza into a live concert performance, and you can select from different songs. Each Squid Sister has a unique solo song, Bomb Rush Blush and Tide Goes Out, respectively.

2016-07-08

https://youtu.be/uZOjceOQ_Lw

Did you know that there’s a Callie and Marie Event Course in Super Mario Maker?

2016-07-09



Have you decided if you’re Team Callie or Team Marie yet? Here at the Squid Research Lab, we’ve declared ourselves Team Pool Party.

2016-07-10



Check out these Splatfest-themed drawings! It’s the final week of the “Best of the ‘fests” event. Share your drawing capturing your epic Splatfest memories with the Art Academy Event Miiverse community by 7/13. MariChan’s event post is here!

2016-07-11

https://youtu.be/Kg9Jodvja9c

Check out Callie and Marie’s backing band get ready for their show at Japan Expo in Paris!

2016-07-12

https://youtu.be/yhAHLXHPgUY

We’ve just received footage of Callie and Marie’s concert at Japan Expo! Look at the Squid Sisters ROCK! How are you supposed to choose a side for Splatfest when they’re both so amazing? (ಥ﹏ಥ)

2016-07-13

@gomigomipomi

2016-07-13



We just received transmission that a Splatoon event is being planned for Chicago the weekend of July 30-31, organized by some friends of the Squid Research Lab. Hosted at the Ignite Gaming Lounge in Chicago, they’re bringing 2 days of various games, events, and fun, and it will be streamed by EndGameTV. If any local Chicago squids are interested, you can check out deets here.

2016-07-14







Pledge your allegiance to Team Callie or Team Marie with this nifty printable alternative box art!

UPDATE: Eagle-eyed supporters of Team Marie spotted a huge mistake on the alternate box art we posted earlier. The spine of the boxart was accidentally a purple squid, which should in fact be a green squid, as well as an errant purple drop shadow. This has been corrected below. We suspect our intern Milton thought he was being sneaky with his Callie bias. If you are supporting Team Marie, please feel free to download the *correct* art. And for best results, print on legal-sized paper.

2016-07-15





SPOTTED: The Squid Sisters have returned home from their trip to perform at Japan Expo. Judging from the luggage tags, I’d say they’ve been having fun with Splatfest.

2016-07-19

@nintendo

2016-07-20

https://youtu.be/fVq0s1ABjNE

Reblog for TEAM CALLIE!

2016-07-21

https://youtu.be/fmoLeGjlHbw

Reblog for TEAM MARIE!

2016-07-21

Less than 24 hours for Splatfest, and things are heating up for Team Callie & Team Marie! As the clock struck 2 AM PT last night, you may have noticed the Splatfest battle music changed. Yep, that heavenly melody is the one and only Calamari Inkantation!

2016-07-23



Results of the 16th and Final Splatfest has concluded and drumroll… victory for team Marie. The result of the Splatfest Top 100 Players will be shared soon!

The final Splatfest may be officially over, but Callie and Marie have beaming smiles on their faces. Remember, exciting battles in Regular Battle, Ranked Battle, Squad Battle and Private Battle modes still continue!

As for us at the Squid Research Lab, we’ll continue our investigation and research, updating you with our findings about all the latest news around Inkopolis. Stay tuned and stay fresh!

2016-07-24



Last but not least, it sounds like Judd’s getting a little more generous, and the bonus points given to the victory in Regular Battle will increase from now on. Thanks Judd! Also, a rumor says that he may even give you a small reward if you keep battling… Check it out to see what might happen!

2016-07-24







Presenting the Top 100 for the Callie vs. Marie Splatfest! Thanks again to all who participated.

2016-07-25

@lursland

2016-07-25

https://youtu.be/M1FpZKiH7ao

♫As we go on we remember, all the times we had together♫

2016-07-28

August


Thanks to everyone who participated in the Best of the ‘Fests Drawing Eventon Miiverse! We had a such a good time looking at all your drawings!

2016-08-02

@horsefeathersart

Hey Squidfriends! We’ve decided to open the Squid Research Lab up to submissions! If you have any squid-related discoveries you’d like to share with the community, send ‘em our way!

2016-08-10

@seatha

2016-08-11

@Swannie

2016-08-12

@jessayleee

2016-08-13

@torkart

2016-08-14



IT’S TIME FOR THE SPLATOON SUMMER SPLATDOWN *airhorn noises*

While a lot of you probably already own Splatoon, this is a great opportunity to play with any of your friends that don’t have the game yet - so spread the word! Download the Testfire demo from the Nintendo eShop and then get ready to play 8/25-8/28 from 3 - 5 PM PT!

2016-08-15

@joaka-chan

2016-08-15

https://youtu.be/lEhYJEQmExE

YOU GUYS, CHECK OUT THIS SQUID!

2016-08-16

@littleredjay

2016-08-17

@mandiminimojo

2016-08-18

@squishydesserts

2016-08-19

@3drod

2016-08-20

October
@nintendo

2016-10-20



Grab three friends and get ready for the Splatoon Showdown Series!

2016-10-25

November


The Splatoon Showdown Series kicks off this weekend, with more than 80 teams already registered! Visit https://battlefy.com/splatoon/ for details!

2016-11-03



The Splatoon Showdown Series finals (Turf War) will be livestreamed tomorrow @ 10 AM PT: https://www.twitch.tv/leaguesundertheink. The winning team will receive prizes including a poster signed by the Splatoon dev team!

Following Turf War finals, Splatoon Tower Control qualifiers begin at 1 PM PT. For details about how to join, visit battlefy.com/splatoon.

Happy Inking!

2016-11-11



The Splatoon Showdown Series finals (Tower Control) kickoff Saturday @ 10 AM PT followed by Splat Zones qualifiers. Details: http://battlefy.com/splatoon/

2016-11-16

December


PSA: The Splatoon Showdown Series finals (Rainmaker) will be streamed tomorrow @ 10 AM PT. You can tune into the Livestream here to watch the final 8 teams fight for the top spot: https://www.twitch.tv/leaguesundertheink/.

The Winning team will receive a prize pack including an poster autographed by top squid lab researchers (and members of the Splatoon development team), Nogami-san and Inoue-san.

Thank you to all the teams that participated in the Splatoon Showdown series, including the qualifying rounds and finals!

2016-12-02



2016-12-22