Squid Research Lab/Archive/2017

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


EUREKA! We have discovered the existence of Splatoon 2, a brand-new Splatoon game for Nintendo Switch! This may very well be the most important discovery in the history of squid science! Incidentally, Splatoon 2 was also announced at the ongoing Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017 in Japan, BUT WE DISCOVERED IT FIRST! Anyway, we'll once again be firing up the ol' research machine here at the Squid Research Lab, so watch this space for in-depth reporting of our Splatoon 2 research findings!

2017-01-12

https://youtu.be/qN4w5D2tzME

Hey, squid lovers. We here at the Squid Research Lab have unearthed new video footage of new Inkling specimens. They seem to be related to the Inkling species we've observed before, but they appear to have new abilities and visual styles, as seen at the Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017 in Japan. We'll continue to bring you our findings on this new phenomenon, but for now please watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN4w5D2tzME

2017-01-12







The Squid Research Lab can confirm that Inkopolis Plaza is no longer the central hub of Inkling culture. Apparently a new location within Inkopolis known as "Inkopolis Square" is now the most popular area for young Inklings. Many new businesses have opened shop in Inkopolis Square, and it is only two subway stations away from Inkopolis Plaza. We at the Squid Research Lab were surprised to learn that the center of Inkling culture has changed locations in such a short amount of time, but perhaps there is something to be learned about the Inkling way of life in all this. Or maybe we're just thinking about it too hard.

2017-01-13



A Squid Research Lab special report: As we suspected, Turf War is still the most popular sport among Inklings. The basic rules of this sport remain the same–two teams of four Inklings compete to cover the largest area of ground with their ink color within the allotted time. Inklings still eat, sleep, and breathe Turf War, and the sport still drives the direction of fashion, art, and language for Inkling culture.

2017-01-13





We have found photographic evidence of one of the new battle stages in Splatoon 2. Inklings call this new area "The Reef", presumably because it's a popular area to hang out when it's not being used for Turf War. The Reef is located a few blocks from Inkopolis Square, and it's home to some of the most popular boutique shops in the city.

2017-01-13



Our research indicates that the mid-battle stage map has changed a bit. Apparently Inklings can press the X Button to view the map at any time during a battle. Once the map is open, they can then press the directional buttons and the A Button to Super Jump to a teammate. Each teammate is assigned to a different directional button, as is the spawn point. The map also features a cursor that can be moved by tilting the controller.

2017-01-13



While an Inkling is on the ground, swinging a roller weapon will still result in a standard horizontal swing. Please see the attached footage for a comparison of roller swing techniques.

2017-01-14



This is the Splat Charger in Splatoon 2. Its design has changed a bit from the original game, as have the designs of the Splat Roller and the Splattershot. These classic weapons are still among the most popular with Inklings.

2017-01-14



Charger weapons have gained a new ability since our original analysis of them. Inklings can now store their charge for a short time by entering squid form. Then, when they return to Inkling form, they can instantly unleash a charged shot. Very impressive.

2017-01-14



The tried-and-true Splattershot hasn't changed drastically, so veteran Inklings will feel right at home with this weapon. We can also report that all previously existing weapon types, including Splatling and Slosher weapons, will appear in Splatoon 2. Stay tuned for further developments.

2017-01-15



Interestingly enough, all of the special weapons that appear in Splatoon 2 are brand new. We've been able to secure an image of one of the new special weapons, but we're unsure of its name. To use it, an Inkling targets as many opponents as he or she can before firing. Once the weapon is fired, four homing missiles are launched at each targeted opponent.

2017-01-15



This special weapon is called the Sting Ray. It fires a ray of pressurized ink that can shoot through walls and travel long distances, splatting any enemy players it touches Once activated, it's very difficult to change the direction of the ray.

2017-01-15



This special weapon is the Inkjet. It allows its user to hover in the air, and features a blob launcher that can be used to shoot ink blobs at enemies below. It seems to be a very powerful weapon, but it also leaves its user rather exposed. Once this special weapon runs out, the Inkjet explodes, sending its user to the exact point they activated the special from.

2017-01-15



This special weapon is called Splashdown. An Inkling who activates it will jump into into the air and then strike the ground, sending an explosion of ink onto nearby players and surfaces. This special weapon can also be activated mid-Super Jump, creating an explosion of ink upon landing. This technique may be very useful when coming to the aid of a teammate who is under attack.

2017-01-15



I nearly overlooked it, but I've noticed the existence or a new type of subweapon. This new subweapon is called the Curling Bomb. I was shocked to learn that the Inklings are familiar with the sport of curling, which may be the greatest discovery of all. Once deployed, the Curling Bomb slides across the ground, bouncing off walls.

We haven't discovered any other new subweapons, but we'll keep our eyes open.

2017-01-15

February




We've received a report that Splatoon 2 will be compatible with an upcoming app for smart devices that enhances online play. This app will link with the game and allow you to set a play appointment with your friends and teammates invited through your social media accounts. It also lets you match up with them directly in the game and voice chat with them too.

For example, during a Private Battle, you can voice chat with all of the connected friends when you divide into teams, but once teams are set, voice chat is switched to communication only between teammates in the same team. Also, you cannot communicate with random Inklings you don't know.

In order to use this app, players need to link their Nintendo Account to their Nintendo Switch system and have a smart device capable of in-game voice chat. Online features will require a paid subscription. Data fees may apply. More details will be announced at a later date.

2017-02-01



We've just received an image of a small cat-like creature on top of a larger cat-like creature known only as...Judd. Could this young cat be Judd's offspring?! Or perhaps his younger sibling? Or even something more...sinister? MUAHAHA! Nope. Sorry. There's no evidence to support that. I just got carried away. Anyway, according to our information from two years back, Judd was supposedly the squid world's only mammal. Just what happened in the intervening time? We'll spare no effort to solve this mystery!

2017-02-09





We've acquired images of some returning legacy weapons we weren't able to show at our recent research presentation, so we've decided to reveal them here! This is a Splatling-type weapon called the Heavy Splatling. The angle of the signature ink barrels has been adjusted to make for easier maintenance, but aside from that it functions just as the original model did.

2017-02-09





In the Slosher category, the crowd-favorite Slosher is also making a return in Splatoon 2. The keen-eyed observer may notice that slight cosmetic adjustments have been made to the Slosher's handle and suspension arm. These changes are in line with the cosmetic changes that other legacy weapons have recieved. It may seem a trivial change to some, but we at the Squid Research Lab feel that even the smallest changes must be documented in order to keep up with the ever-changing trends of the Inkling world.

2017-02-10





We've gotten a first look inside one of the new stages–Musselforge Fitness. This state of the art work out facility contains a bouldering gym, a regulation-sized pool, and all the treadmills you could ever want. Judging from our research, today's Inklings are foregoing the calisthenics and aerobics for more back-to-basics, iron-puming workouts.

2017-02-10











Eureka! We've just discovered a breakthrough in squid-observation technology! In Splatoon 2, a new feature called Private Battle Spectator View will allow up to two non-players to spectate a Private Battle. These two people act as camera operators in order capture all the action. This is, of course, in addition to the 8 players who fight in the Private Battle. Outstanding!

2017-02-10





Previously, we've reported that Splatoon 2 will allow up to eight Nintendo Switch systems to connect via local wireless to play Private Battles. In addition to this, a new feature called LAN Play will enable players to connect eight docked systems using a wired LAN setup. This feature allows players to create local Private Battle tournaments without the need for an Internet connection.

If you're willing to put in the work to set up LAN Play, you can also use the Private Battle Spectator View feature by hooking up two additional Nintendo Switch systems. Local wireless play is perfect for your regular gaming get-togethers, but LAN Play is where it's at when you want to organize a serious tournament event with your fellow players.

2017-02-10





BREAKING NEWS! A Squid Research Lab special report:

Nintendo Switch owners will soon be able to participate in a special Splatoon 2 preview. A special demo version of Splatoon 2 will be available for download on Nintendo Switch and will allow players to battle against opponents around the world in the Splatoon 2 Global Testfire event. It's a way for everyone to investigate the latest in cephalopod warfare months before the game launches!

The Splatoon 2 Global Testfire will give Nintendo Switch owners six chances to play with other owners worldwide during the three-day event. The timing of the event is as follows:

March 24 12-12:59 p.m. PT 8-8:59 p.m. PT

March 25 4-4:59 a.m. PT 12-12:59 p.m. PT 8-8:59 p.m. PT

March 26 4-4:59 a.m. PT

Who's playing those 4 a.m. Pacific Time time slots, anyway? They're preferable to players overseas, or perhaps North American early birds (or night owls?)

All indications are that the content for the Global Testfire will allow players to test four different main weapons, including the new Splat Dualies, as well as remixed versions of the iconic Splat Roller and Splat Charger. Extraordinary!

We look forward to sharing additional findings soon, such as when the demo will be available for download in Nintendo eShop.

2017-02-12







Happy Valentine's Day! One of our squid researchers at our HQ in Japan made these amazing traditional Japanese confections called wagashi.

They look positively scrumptious, but I'd feel bad subjecting something so cute to my gastric acid. AAAAAAAAAAAH!

2017-02-14



That's called a 360 Big Spin. And this is a backside manual into a kickflip. Skateboard tricks are incredible, but they don't always turn out the way you'd like. That's part of their magic. Unlike the battle-busy Inklings, the jellyfish kids are as chill and relaxed as ever.

2017-02-27

March




PUBLIC SQUID ANNOUNCEMENT! Splatoon 2 arrives this summer, but we're offering an early chance to get your feet wet in the Splatoon 2 Global Testfire. This global event will only be active during a few short time periods between 3/24 and 3/26, but you can download it from Nintendo eShop now to get prepared. http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/splatoon-2-switch#game-overview

Event times (You can only play during these time periods) • 3/24 (Fri) Noon – 12:59 p.m. PT • 3/24 (Fri) 8:00 p.m. - 8:59 p.m. PT • 3/25 (Sat) 4:00 a.m. – 4:59 a.m. PT • 3/25 (Sat) Noon – 12:59 p.m. PT • 3/25 (Sat) 8:00 p.m. - 8:59 p.m. PT • 3/26 (Sun) 4:00 a.m. – 4:59 a.m. PT

2017-03-14





We're happy to report that the upcoming Global Testfire will include two stages to battle on: The Reef  & Musselforge Fitness.

These stages will be randomly chosen throughout the event.

2017-03-15



The rock band Wet Floor are the latest sensation in the Inkling world. Their songs are an enticing blend of different genres, and they're especially popular with the kids right now. Let's check out their song "Rip Entry," which you'll hear as background music while battling! [Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR1eQa4oDFI]

2017-03-17



Let's meet the members of Wet Floor. This guy plays synthesizer and is the group's founder. He's out to restore some indie dignity to Inkopolis's music scene that's lately been taken over by giant pop stars. When it comes to songwriting, he lets others take the initiative. He prefers tinkering with sounds to performing, and the studio is a much more comfortable place for him than the stage.

2017-03-17

Now let's introduce Wet Floor's rhythm section. These two bring a fast-paced technical beat to the group's sound that's every bit as crucial as the members who play up front. The guy on bass has a trademark string-slapping style, while the drummer uses her multiple limbs to keep a driving, super-stable backbeat. The friendly rivalry these two share makes the band sizzle with thrilling rhythm.

2017-03-17

https://youtu.be/z_5OHVGb5Pw

https://youtu.be/tllWnrKClQY

https://youtu.be/jRSqEecrxjg

https://youtu.be/EJjYiv-EVb0

https://youtu.be/X_L1H_fp2m0

We just received stunning weapon footage from our fellow field researchers in Japan that illustrate the basics of weapons available in the upcoming Global Testfire. Check them out above before you splat the competition.

2017-03-21

https://youtu.be/EJ9Ygawbqjk

https://youtu.be/ODNZm6PkZ4I

https://youtu.be/f_RiZq--mUo

https://youtu.be/mOHWM2tFP74

We're also excited to present this special weapon footage; apparently all specials in Splatoon 2 are brand-new. Who knew that the Splashdown can be activated mid-Super Jump!? Check out more in these videos.

2017-03-21

The Splatoon 2 Global Testfire starts tomorrow at Noon PT.



To help prepare test subjects, we've created these controls & weapon overviews:



Research can be conducted with either a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or Joy-Con controllers. Or even on-the-go in handheld mode (assuming you have a strong wireless Internet connection).



Also, don't forget that an important step in the scientific method is to make observations. We recommend capturing your findings with the Capture button on the Joy-Con or Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, then later sharing it with your peers in the scientific community. When publishing your research, use the octothorp symbol (#) followed by "Splatoon2" or "Testfire."

Good luck to all participants!

2017-03-23



When the Testfire begins today, you may be tempted to immediately hop into battle. However, we recommend you take a moment first to adjust the camera setting options to your preference. The included image displays items you can adjust.

2017-03-24



We here at Squid Research Lab deeply appreciate that so many people participated in the Testfire last weekend. Thanks to such a fine group of test subjects, our research is making great progress. We can confirm that Splatoon 2 will include many different features than seen in the Testfire, and we look forward to reporting on these continuous findings leading up to the game's launch this summer.

2017-03-27

Let's take a moment to look at Gear and its role in the Inkling world. Gear is divided into three types, headgear, clothing, and footwear. From our observations, the gear sold at shops in Inkopolis Square keeps pace with the ever-changing world of squid fashion.



Each piece of gear comes with "gear abilities" that provide a variety of benefits during battle. Using a piece of gear repeatedly will increase the number of abilities it has. Our research has also revealed that gear abilities have changed along with fashion over the last two years, with a number of new abilities joining some time-tested favorites.



2017-03-29



PUBLIC SQUID ANNOUNCEMENT: It appears that a team of skilled Inklings have the chance to win a trip to E3 2017! We just got the below fax from our top competitive field researcher:

Battlefy is hosting an online Wii U Splatoon tournament.

Anyone ages 18 and up living in the United States with a Wii U console, the Splatoon game and Internet access can participate. The winning team will win a trip to Los Angeles, CA to attend the E3 video game trade show this June and check out what Nintendo has in store.

The qualifying round (Turf War) is on April 22 at 11am PT, but make sure to log in early and click the "Check In" button an hour before tournament time. Once the bracket is seeded, you can set up your qualifying match using Battlefy's Private Match Chat and then proceed to splat your way to hopeful victory.

The top 16 teams in the qualifying round will then move on to the Finals. In the finals, teams will play Turf War, Splat Zones and Tower Control in succession in single elimination best of five play until only two teams remain. The Grand Finals will see the final two teams doing battle in Rainmaker mode to determine the ultimate winner. The Finals will begin on April 29 at 11am PT.

For the full rules and list of tournament times, visit https://battlefy.com/splatoon.

2017-03-30



We've managed to learn the name of the young boy with the sea-urchin like head. Everyone, meet "Murch". Apparently, he looks up to Spyke as a role model, and works in the same industry (if not the same organization) as Spyke.





Murch is good with his hands, and he uses those nimble digits to perform a special service he calls "gear scrubbing". This will reset the additional abilities on a piece of gear, returning it to its original state. From what we can tell, gear abilities you've removed from gear will be returned to you as "ability chunks".



Once you collect enough ability chunks you'll be able to use them to fill an empty gear slot with a new ability. Theoretically, this means that repeating Murch's gear scrubbing many times would allow you to mix and match additional gear abilities as you see fit! That would be incredible! It could be that this young man is even more talented than Spyke himself!

2017-03-31

April




Inklings are a social species, so it's no surprise that you can even snap photos with your amiibo friend in Inkopolis Square.

2017-04-14



OH MY WORD! It's a new character!

...Is what I thought when I first saw this image, but alas, it's just an advertisement from the squid world. This does tickle my curiosity, but apparently it's not anything too significant.

2017-04-24



BREAKING: Inkling researchers intercept top-secret report about the Squid Sisters Nine months have passed since the final Splatfest came to an end, where we saw the showdown of Callie versus Marie ended in victory for Marie.

We heard that there was no ill will between the two as they left the studio arm in arm, smiling and laughing. That the bond between them would continue, unbroken, for years to come.

However, our researchers discovered that this may not have been completely true...

Learn more about what happened after the final Splatfest came to an end in the Squid Sisters Stories here, where we will post updates each week: http://splatoon.nintendo.com/squid-sisters-stories/

2017-04-24



That's right, the ever-youthful Inkling Boy and Girl are hitting the tracks when Mario Kart 8 Deluxe launches today. They have their own unique vehicles, and Urchin Underpass is even playable in Battle Mode! Did anybody check to see if these two actually have driver's licenses?

2017-04-28

May
This tough customer is Octo Samurai. He brandishes a gigantic roller, using it to dash the hopes of all those who dare approach. He's got no time or patience for anyone who fakes the funk, and word has it that he is worshipped as a big bad boss by the Octarian rank-and-file troops. He enjoys working on his motorcycle in his spare time. On closer examination, it should be noted that he actually looks more like a sumo wrestler than a samurai, which is a little weird.

2017-05-31

June
https://youtu.be/AfDvv8quiA4

The Splatoon 2 World Inkling International kicks off in two weeks at E3 2017! Watch four teams from around the world compete for the cup! Tune in live at e3.nintendo.com on June 13th and 14th for all the inky action!

2017-06-01





Just in, new details of the Ranked Battle modes in Splatoon 2. Splat Zones is a mode in which teams compete for control of areas known as, you guessed it...Splat Zones. If the other team gains control of a zone, cover it in your team's ink to steal it back! While the rules haven't changed from the original Splatoon game, the zone coverage status in the middle of the UI now provides more real-time updates.

2017-06-02



Splatoon 2 single-player lets you fight solo against the Octarians as you upgrade an inky arsenal of weapons. It's a great way to master gameplay!

2017-06-15





It's time for some throwback fun Inklings! Moray Towers returns from the original Splatoon for Splatoon 2! What's your favorite map from the original game? #tbt

2017-06-29

July


Greetings Inklings! The Squid Research Lab presents its latest findings... the next Nintendo Direct!

Our research has indicated the Direct will gather all the new Splatoon 2 information seen so far, for a massive amount of intel sure to get you up to speed for the battlefield!

If our sources are correct, the intel is scheduled to arrive July 6 at 7am PT/10am ET. Tune in at http://www.nintendo.com/nintendo-direct!

2017-07-03



Spla-tune in tomorrow at 7am PT/10am ET for the Splatoon 2 Nintendo Direct! Get refreshed on all the new features coming to the Nintendo Switch exclusive.

http://www.nintendo.com/nintendo-direct

2017-07-05



Eyes open Inklings! Tune in now for a Splatoon 2 Nintendo Direct covering all the game's new features, from Fillet to Z!

http://www.nintendo.com/nintendo-direct

2017-07-06



Even the Research Lab needs a break now and then! We're listening to this fresh new track from Off the Hook, entitled "Ebb & Flow"!

2017-07-06



Good news Inklings, we've confirmed that Splatfests will be returning to Splatoon 2!

While the upcoming battle is between eternal rivals Cake and Ice Cream, let's #TBT to a Splatoon classic, Cats vs. Dogs! It was a close contest, with both teams fighting tooth & nail, but Team Dogs won by a hair!

What Splatfest was your favorite?

2017-07-06

Breaking News! A special stage called Shifty Station will be added to the rotation during Splatfests! It appears to be exclusive to Splatfest battles, and apparently the stage design can even change from Splatfest to Splatfest.

2017-07-31





Did you notice that SplatNet 2 displays which side your friends have voted for in the upcoming Splatfest? This is especially helpful if you want to try out Team Battle. As a reminder, Team Battle requires four players (must be friends with someone from the same team who is in the Lobby) to join a private lobby before being matched up against another team of four.

2017-07-31

August


Have you seen any Inklings with shiny weapons when spawning at the beginning of a Ranked Battle? We discovered this occurs when the player has recently been winning a lot of Ranked Battles with that weapon in the current rank. Put another way, this Inkling is currently on fire! It will be worth checking out how these players battle, whether on your squad or not.

2017-08-01



We at the Squid Research Lab have spent a lot of time debating this topic and now we need your help. Are you ready for the battle between Ketchup and Mayonnaise? Pick a side and get ready to Ink it out in the next Splatfest for Splatoon 2 - Beginning tomorrow at 9pm PT for 24 hours.

2017-08-03



Tonight at 7PM PST, the Sloshing Machine returns to Ammo Knights! This appliance is basically your normal everyday washing machine...except it fires twisting volleys of beautiful, messy ink! Use the Autobomb sub to track down campers and splat faraway foes with the Sting Ray special! Per Sheldon, "This set is perfect for splatting like a wild child and drowning the battlefield in a whirlwind of ink!"

2017-08-25

[Notice] The SplatNet servicefor the Splatoon game on the Wii U system will be permanently closed on September 30th, 2017. Online multiplayer battles will still be available, as this update only affects the SplatNet service. We sincerely thank all players for using this companion site for the original Splatoon game.

2017-08-29



It's a superpowered Splatfest this week in Splatoon 2! Which team will reign supreme? Let's take a look.

Team Flight gets to save a bunch of money on plane tickets and you never have to sit in traffic again! Invisibility has its perks too though. You'd make a pretty great spy, being able to listen in on secret conversations, and skipping lines would be a breeze!

Of course, there's only one way to settle this argument, and that's by inking up your opponents on the splattlefield this weekend! Splatfest kicks off Friday 9/1 at 9PM PT and ends Saturday 9/2 at 9PM PT.

May the best superpower team win!

2017-08-30

September


There is much science happening with today's new weapon. According to Sheldon, the Rapid Blaster Pro uses a chamber system that delays oxidization to the last possible instance. So what does this mean exactly? An incredible range, that's what!

This range is made even more dangerous with the Toxic Mist Sub weapon and Ink Storm Special (which is, of course, excellent for providing cover for your teammates). Overall, it's a kit for the more technically minded Inklings out there.

Hopefully these findings will help your own Inkling research later tonight when the weapon becomes available.

2017-09-22

@nintendotreehouse

For those who seek safety during a downpour, it may be time to pitch a Tenta Brella! According to our research, the new Tenta Brella weapon will be available tonight! For even more details, check out this report from a source calling itself the Nintendo Treehouse Log. Does this source have academic credibility?

2017-09-29

October


Greetings, everyone! Today's weapon report is very dynamic because it's about a Dynamo. Err, does that make it Dynamo-ic? We'll work on that phrasing, but more important is that the Gold Dynamo Roller will be available starting tonight!

It's functionally the same as the Dynamo Roller (except it looks more expensive). This means that you'll still have a weighty roller that's designed for high strength and long range. However, this kit also comes with the Splat Bomb sub weapon and the Ink Armor special – making it much easier to fight near the front lines of battle.

2017-10-27



Pearl and Marina are putting the Boo in Boo-yah! And someone tell Lil' Judd to stop staring at us like that! Have a Splatty Halloween tomorrow squid kids!

2017-10-30

November


We received a transmission that a huge Splatoon 2 LAN tournament is being planned for Boston this weekend, Nov 4-5, and it's organized by some friends of the Squid Research Lab. Hosted at the Balance Patch Gaming Cafe in Boston, they're bringing 2 full days of inking action featuring top players and teams, including members of Set To Destroy X (previously Deadbeat), who won the 2017 Splatoon 2 World Inkling Invitational!

All the action will be streamed by EndGameTV. If any local Boston squids are interested, you can check out more details here and here. We can't wait to see which team comes out on top in one of the biggest Splatoon 2 LAN tournaments yet!

2017-11-01



It's finally back! This Black Friday (today!), Sheldon has a special weapon in store for Inklings with an appetite for heavy firepower. The Hydra Splatling. This puppy emits high-pressure ink like a fire extinguisher and has the longest range among Splatling-type weapons. Although it takes time to charge, the firepower will increase by charging it to the max. It comes with the Autobomb sub and Splashdown special. You can pick it up starting at 6 PM PT tonight, the same time that MakoMart opens its doors!

2017-11-24

December


Like any good piece of spy equipment, the Undercover Brella is not what it seems. Our research has revealed that the canopy-launching mechanism has been removed to allow for rapid fire, and this Brella can even be fired when the canopy is open! Very surprising given that it looks like a normal umbrella to the untrained eye.

Adding to this kit is the Ink Mine and the Splashdown special. The Splashdown isn't particularly spy-like, but it does pack a surprising punch for unsuspecting Inklings. You can try it yourself when it becomes available later this evening.

2017-12-29



Happy New Year! May you have a splat-ful 2018!

2017-12-31