X Battle

X Battle will be one of the multiplayer mode categories in Splatoon 3. It was originally announced as one of two battle modes to be added in free post-launch updates (along with League Battle), and will launch on on December 1, 2022 as part of the Chill Season 2022 update.

Description
X Battles are similar to Splatoon 2 X Rank Ranked Battles and use many of the same mechanics. However, in Splatoon 3, this system operates alongside Anarchy Battles, rather than one of its ranks. In X Battles, players will have three-month sessions to play matches against other skilled players to increase their X Power. Unlike Splatoon 2, players will have five placement matches at the start of the season to determine their starting X Power (rather than ten). Players in the top 500 will also be recognized. Even if X Battles are unlocked, Anarchy Battles (both Series and Open) will still be available. Winning matches will grant X Power points while losing will take some away.

X Battles will be separated into two divisions, each sponsored by a gear brand: It is not yet clear if these brand sponsorships will have an in-game effect, nor whether the sponsors will change per season or stay the same.
 * Division will cover players from Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand
 * Division will cover players from North America, South America, and Europe

Ranks
To play X Battles, one must have a rank in Anarchy Battle of S+0 or higher. Players will need to keep this in mind with the rank reset mechanic. If a player wants to play X Battles at the beginning of the new season, they must have an Anarchy Battle Rank of S+10 or higher before the old season ends.

Quotes
"Don't forget about X Battles, coming in a future update! Not only do you have to reach an elite rank to join an X Battle but you'll have to risk X Power as you fight your way up the leaderboard. Our Tactical Research team is still investigating the details - stay tuned for more."

- @SplatoonNA on Twitter

"Also, quick reminder that X Battles are coming in Chill Season! Players ranked S+0 or higher can get in on some action that is decidedly NOT chill. You'll have to put your own X Power on the line to take part, but don't worry - Anarchy Battles will still be available as well.

If you do decide to take the plunge into X Battles, you'll need to join one of two divisions sponsored by local gear brands. The Takoroka Division covers Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, while the Americas and Europe play in the Tentatek Division."

- @SplatoonNA on Twitter

"X Battles are coming in #Splatoon3's Chill Season 2022! Players ranked S+0 or higher can get in on some action that is decidedly not chill. You'll need to join one of two divisions sponsored by local gear brands. Europe and the Americas play in the Tentatek Division."

- @NintendoEurope on Twitter