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{{other uses|the prominent species of squid in ''Splatoon''|the language by the same name|Inkling (language)}}
{{other uses|the prominent species of squid in the {{Ss}}|other uses|Inkling (disambiguation)}}
{{redirect|Squid|other uses|Squid (disambiguation)}}
{{redirect|Squid|other uses|Squid (disambiguation)}}
{{Redirect|Kid|the [[Splatfest]]|Kid vs. Grown-Up}}
[[File:Splat2n 3D Inklings 1.jpg|thumb|400x400px|Inklings as seen in ''Splatoon 2'', wearing various [[gear]]]]
'''Inklings''' are a species of humanoid cephalopods who are the main protagonists and playable characters in the {{Ss}}, along with [[Octoling]]s.


'''Inklings''' are a sentient race of squid-like humanoids who are the main protagonists in ''[[Splatoon]]'' and ''[[Splatoon 2]]''.
==Background==
[[File:S Sunken Scroll 10.png|thumb|350x350px|The evolution of the Inkling.]]


==Background==
Inklings are evolved species of squid that came to be after rising sea levels destroyed humanity. The first ancestors of modern Inklings are recorded to have lived around 5,000 years after the destruction of the human settlement of [[Alterna]]. Alterna inhabitants unintentionally accelerated the evolution of squids and other species of marine life, after psycho-reactive liquid crystals infused with lingering human thoughts and feelings leaked into the ocean surrounding the settlement.
Inklings are evolved species of squid that came to be after rising sea levels sunk human civilization. Circa 2000 years before the events of ''[[Splatoon]]'', the Inklings crawled up to what little habitable land there was left on the planet. The lack of space forced the Inklings to fight for whatever territory they could find, and the [[Turf War]] as a concept was established. The original [[Turf War]]s were overseen by [[Judd]], who was cryogenically frozen by his human owner before the Earth was flooded. 100 years before the events of ''[[Splatoon]]'', the Inklings and the [[Octarian]]s engaged in a [[Great Turf War]]. A young [[Cap'n Cuttlefish]] and the Inklings won, forcing the [[Octarian]]s to retreat into [[Octo Valley]].
 
At least 2,000 years before the events of {{S}}, [[Turf War]]s were established. The original [[Turf War]]s were overseen by [[Judd]], a cat that was cryogenically frozen by his [[human]] owner before the Earth was flooded. 100 years before the events of ''Splatoon'', the Inklings and the [[Octarian]]s engaged in a [[Great Turf War]] after otherwise having good relations, when rising sea levels caused disputes over the remaining territory. The young [[Cuttlefish|Cap'n Cuttlefish]] and his Inkling comrades were victorious, forcing the Octarians to retreat to desolate areas such as [[Octo Valley (location)|Octo Valley]], [[Octo Canyon (location)|Octo Canyon]], and take up residence underground.


==Appearance==
==Appearance==
[[File:Gender.jpg|thumb|right|250px]]
{{For|a visual overview of character customization options|Player Settings}}
[[File:Backwardscap1.jpg|thumb|left|x200px|An Inkling shows her teeth.]]
[[File:Inklingdevelopment.png|thumb|350x350px|The development of an Inkling from infancy to maturity. From left to right: newborn, at least 1 year old, at least 4 or 5 years old, at least 8 years old, at least 14 years old.<ref>[https://twitter.com/osawa_minami/status/1018488416667721730 {{TWI}} ''Splatoon'' exhibition at Tower Records - concept art]</ref>]]
Inkings can alternate between a humanoid form and a squid form. At the age of 14, Inklings gain complete control over both these forms and can change at will.
Young Inklings begin life resembling squid paralarvae, but grow into an increasingly human-like form as they age. By at most the age of 14, Inklings gain complete control over both these forms and can change between kid and squid at will. Between each game in the franchise, Inklings undergo design changes, generally becoming taller, and having more rounded and less squat faces. Additionally, in {{S}} and {{S3}}, Inklings' tentacles have a darker color towards their tips.
 
The kid form is similar to that of a young human child, but with notable differences. Instead of hair, an Inkling has tentacle appendages that cover their head. These tentacles are colored on the outside, and white on the inside. The outer layer changes to match an Inkling's [[ink]] color, and usually features a spotted gradient to a secondary color at the ends of their longest tentacles. An Inkling's eyes are surrounded by a black 'eye mask', and they have pointed ears that are homologous to a squid's fins. Their mouths contain two ridges similar in shape to human teeth, with three larger sharp points--two on the top and one on the bottom--that resemble a squid's beak. The inside of an Inkling's mouth matches their ink color.
[[File:Splatoon - Squid 2D purple.png|left|thumb|200x200px|The humble squid.]]
The squid form resembles a small, cartoon-ish, monochromatic squid. They have several small arms in the middle of their bodies, with two large tentacles on either side. The squid have short mantle with relatively large fins, and two upward-facing, human-like eyes over the characteristic eye mask. The undersides of their tentacles are always white, regardless of ink color, and have a single large sucker near the end of each.
 
There are slight differences between male and female Inklings. In general, male Inklings style their tentacles shorter, have thicker eyebrows, and deeper voices. Female Inklings wear more of but are not limited to longer tentacle styles. Female Inklings are also slightly curvier. In ''Splatoon'' and ''Splatoon 2'', the player must pick between male and female and can only use the tentacle styles available for each gender. In ''Splatoon 3'', hairstyles and clothing items that were previously gender-locked can be worn by any Inkling.
 
Some Inklings (namely [[Callie]], [[Marie]], [[Pearl]], and [[Frye]]) have special features unique to these characters. All four idols have plus-shaped pupils that are either brown or white, as opposed to the standard Inkling's black circular pupil. Callie, Marie, and Pearl have tentacles in colors not used by the regular Inkling, being black and white respectively. All idols have different ears: Callie and Marie (along with some Inklings shown in ''Splatoon'' official art) have curvy pointed ears. Pearl's ears are unusually small, and Frye's ears are unusually long and pointed. Frye in particular has the most unique appearance of any Inkling model found in game, with her exaggerated features and large eye mask.


The squid form resembles a small, cartoony, monochromatic squid with eight small tentacles in the middle of their bodies and two large ones on either side, resembling the hair of their humanoid form. It has relatively large head fins, and two upward-facing, human-like gray eyes. The undersides of their enlarged calipers are always white, regardless of what color the rest of them is, and they have a single large sucker on each. In this form, they are largely incompetent outside of their own ink, but when swimming in it, they can completely submerge into it and swim at speeds far greater than humanoid form's running speed. They can even jump out of the ink to cover further distances and swim up ink-covered walls. However, this form is also largely vulnerable, as being inside of enemy ink in this form will eventually splat an Inkling.
==Biology==
[[File:Transform img.png|thumb|right|The Inkling transformation between kid and squid]] [[File:Inklings have 10 tentacles.jpg|thumb|right|A diagram showing an inkling's (and squid's) ten tentacles]]
Both the Inklings' squid and kid form have particular abilities associated with them. In kid form, Inklings can splatter a special type of colored [[ink]] by using various [[weapon]]s, including guns, rollers, buckets, paintbrushes, etc. This ink can be quickly spread over most surfaces, except for inflatable barriers, black pavement,<!--We need to make an article for these things--> and [[glass]] surfaces. This ink inhibits the movement of Inklings that do not have a matching color. When used as a projectile, ink can damage opposing Inklings, eventually 'splatting' them and forcing them to respawn.


The humanoid form has black markings that resemble swim goggles or heavy eyeliner around their eyes, pointed ears analogous to the squid's fins, and "hair" that resembles a squid's tentacles, which changes color according to their [[ink]] color. The color is randomly selected out of predetermined pairs, some of which can be found in {{scroll|7|Sunken Scroll 7}}. Their mouths contain human-like teeth, as well as three larger sharp teeth, two on the top and one on the bottom, which resemble a squid's beak. The inside of an Inkling's mouth matches their ink color as well. Inklings have no bone structure, making their teeth possibly the only truly solid part of their body, just as the only solid part of a squid is its beak.
In squid form, Inklings on dry land are only able to slither slowly. This changes when an Inkling submerges into ink of its own color, allowing it to swim at high speeds and jump over large distances. Inklings also use their squid forms to perform maneuvers such as the [[Mobility#Squid Surge|Squid Surge]] and [[Mobility#Squid Roll|Squid Roll]], scale painted walls, and slip through wire fences and grates into areas that would be unreachable in kid form. As revealed in ''[[Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show]]'', Inklings are indeed more flexible in squid form. However, squids cannot travel past striped barriers or over ledges, preventing them from swimming into inaccessible areas.


Inklings are customizable, though the options differ between each game. Both games allow for the player to choose a male or a female Inkling, and female Inklings have noticeably thinner eyebrows than male ones as well as a curvier body.
While submerged in ink, Inklings only create small ripples while swimming and become undetectable when still. In ink of their color, they quickly replenish their ink ammunition. In ink of a different color, Inklings become unable to remain in squid form and quickly revert to humanoid form. Inkling ink disappears rather quickly after a battle due to being [[List of Sunken Scrolls in Splatoon 2#Scroll 14|consumed by microorganisms]] that have evolved to feed on the ink.


In ''Splatoon'', female Inklings have two long tentacles that hang from both sides of the head in front of their ears and male Inklings have two tentacles tied in a ponytail at the back of their head, tied together with a brown, yellow, and green band. Both genders also have four smaller tentacles on their neckline, adding up to ten tentacles (including their limbs). Skin color, gender, and eye color can be changed in the [[options]] menu at any time. Head accessories, shirts, shoes, and weapons can be changed to the player's liking in the equip menu based on their purchases, and many clothing items change to match the Inkling's current color. Both forms have a slightly different pitch to their voice.
[[File:S Dissolved In Water.png|thumb|left|x140px|An Inkling after dissolving in water.]]


In ''Splatoon 2'', hairstyles are no longer limited to one style per gender, allowing the player more customization options, four different hairstyles are allowed for each gender. Inkling Girls have a choice between their original ''Splatoon'' hairstyle, a much shorter bob cut like style, an asymmetric haircut with one curled tentacle hanging on the left side of their face, or have their tentacles tied in a knot. Inkling Boys have a choice between their original ''Splatoon'' hairstyle, a spiked comb back hairstyle, a ponytail haircut but with tentacle bangs combed to his right, or a buzz cut hairstyle devoid of visible tentacles with what appear to be scar marks.
Inklings are unable to swim in water. When submerged, their body dissolves, leaving their clothes behind. The [[Squid Research Lab|official American ''Splatoon'' Tumblr]] has mused that this may be because their bodies are made of liquid. Another fact to support this is that squid form Inklings can go through grates, which is also cited by the Tumblr account to be related to them possibly being made of liquid. Interviews with the producer of ''Splatoon'' and ''Splatoon 2'', [[Hisashi Nogami]], revealed that Inklings have a very thin and permeable outer membrane, which causes their ink to bleed out when in contact with water. They evolved this way to be able to transform freely between their kid and squid form, but lost the ability to be in water as a consequence.<ref>[https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2018/03/26/splatoon-s-burning-questions-finally-answered.aspx Gameinformer - ''Splatoon'''s Burning Questions Finally Answered]</ref><ref>[https://miketendo64.com/2018/08/11/hisashi-nogami-octo-expansion/ Nintendo Switch news section interview with Nogami]</ref> A piece of trivia from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' also states that the Inklings' ink from their bodies will diffuse when submerged in water and which causes them to dissolve.<ref>"''In the ''Splatoon'' series, Inklings cover the ground and walls in ink, and then swim through that ink as a squid. But if they fall into water, the ink in their bodies will diffuse and they'll dissolve.''" - ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'', Inkling Tips</ref>


Eye color and skin tone choices also return, and Inkling now have a choice of pants. Inkling Girls will be able to choose between their ''Splatoon'' shorts, a skirt with leggings, or ankle high pants. Inkling Boys will be able to choose between their ''Splatoon'' shorts, much looser shorts with leggings, or looser fitting ankle high pants. Pants unlike other pieces of gear are part of a character's customization and have no impact on an Inkling's stats.
Inklings possess the ability to change the color of their skin and eyes at will,<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnIAN06eSAE Splatoon 2 Direct]</ref> with the Splatlandian Inklings and Octolings also having the ability to have multicolored eyes. Skin color is not limited to human-like ones, Keaton of [[Wet Floor]] has turquoise skin, and Baker of [[C-Side]] has gray skin.


Inklings take on a unique appearance when they have a [[Special Weapon]] ready: they will give off sparks, the tentacles on their head will become very brightly colored and will glow, bubbles will form at the top of their head as if from boiling water, and they will appear to be caught in a strong wind even when completely still. Their appearance goes back to normal once their Special Weapon has been used.
[[File:Bioluminescence Inkling Girl.jpg |thumb|right|250px|Glowing dots as seen in the Super Smash Bros. 2018 trailer.]]
{{clr}}


==Abilities==
Inklings are capable of producing a sort of bio-luminescence, an ability shared with certain real-life squid such as the [[Wikipedia:Firefly squid|firefly squid]]. In the dark, either during a [[Splatfest]] or certain [[Octo Valley (mode)|Octo Valley]] missions, the player's Inkling will glow brightly in humanoid form, lighting up the area immediately around them and helping to differentiate the player from other Inklings. This glow disappears entirely upon assuming squid form. All Inklings (as well as [[jellyfish]]) in [[Inkopolis Plaza]] will give off a very faint glow during a Splatfest, visible only by looking at the ground around them. This bio-luminescence can also be spotted when viewing Inkling tentacles at low angle, with many tiny rainbow dots that glimmer faintly in the sunlight and brightly in pitch darkness.
[[File:Credits - Inkling Morphing.png|thumb|170px|Concept art of an Inkling assuming humanoid form.]]
Both of the Inklings' forms have abilities associated with them. In humanoid form, Inklings can splatter a special type of colored [[ink]] by using various [[weapon]]s, including guns, rollers, buckets and paint brushes. This ink can be quickly spread over many surfaces, with the exception of green barrel-like objects, black pavement, <!--We need to make an article for these things--> and [[Glass]] surfaces. This ink inhibits the movement of Inklings that do not have a matching color. When used as a projectile, ink can damage opposing Inklings, eventually "splatting" them and forcing them to respawn. In squid form, an Inkling can swim and jump quickly through ink of the same color, even using this mechanic to swim up walls and through wire fences and grates into areas that are not typically reachable. However, squids cannot travel past striped barriers, preventing them from swimming into inaccessible areas. [[File:Dissolving in water.png|thumb|left|x170px|An Inkling just after dissolving in water.]] While squid form Inklings are in their own ink color they will be invisible if they stay still, and when moving only slight ripples will appear. While submerged in ink of their own color, they quickly replenish their ink ammunition. When squid form Inklings are on dry land they are only able to slither slowly, even slower than a humanoid Inkling. Inkling squids in ink of a different color will be unable to remain in squid form for long before being forced back to humanoid form.


Inklings are unable to swim in water. When submerged, their body dissolves for unknown reasons, leaving their clothes behind. The [[Live from the Squid Research Lab|official American ''Splatoon'' Tumblr]] has mused that this may be because their bodies are actually made of liquid. Another reason to support this is that squid form Inklings can go through grates, which is also cited by the Tumblr account to possibly be related to them being made of liquid, but since squids don't have bones, it might just be that they can easily fit through the holes.
Inklings take on a unique appearance when they have a [[special weapon]] ready; they give off sparks, the tentacles on their head become very brightly colored and glow, bubbles form at the top of their head as if from boiling water, and they appear to be caught in a strong wind even when completely still. Their appearance returns to normal once their special weapon has been used.


Inklings are capable of producing their own light, possibly from bioluminescence, an ability some real-life squid such as the [[Wikipedia:Watasenia scintillans|firefly squid]] possess. In the dark, either during a [[Splatfest]] or some [[Octo Valley (mode)|Octo Valley]] missions, the player's Inkling will glow brightly in humanoid form, lighting up the area immediately around them. This glow disappears entirely upon assuming squid form. Other Inklings remain dark, helping to differentiate them from the player's. However, all Inklings (as well as [[jellyfish]]) in [[Inkopolis Plaza]] do give off a very faint glow during a Splatfest, seen only on the ground around them.
In the ''Splatoon'' manga, [[Vintage]] and his teammate Omega have the ability to sense opponents moving behind them. [[Bobble Hat (character)|Bobble Hat]], also from the manga, has similar abilities. It is unknown if any other Inklings have these abilities.{{clr}}
{{clr}}


==Communication and language==
===Splatting===
{{main|Inkling (language)}}
{{main|Splat (occurrence)}}
[[File:Credits - Logo D.png|thumb|right|120px|An example of Inkling language.]]
Inklings communicate with each other in the [[Inkling (Language)|Inkling language]], which sounds like indecipherable, high-pitched gurgling. They can be found talking to each other in [[Inkopolis Plaza]]. Written Inkling appears frequently in-game: on signs, in [[Sunken Scroll]]s, etc. The [[Squid Sisters]] talk and sing in Inkling. Inklings speak to teammates in Inkling when [[Signal]]s are used in online battles.


So far, there have been no successful attempts at decoding the language, leading some to believe it is gibberish.
While in battle, Inklings can use their weapons to 'splat' each other with ink. Standing in enemy ink will damage and slow an Inkling's movement, but only enemy fire can splat an Inkling. When splatted by an enemy, Inklings explode into enemy ink, with their gear and weapons dropping before dissolving shortly thereafter, and a ghost-like squid figure will rise into the air over where they were splatted. This ghost-like squid figure then travels to the spawn point where the Inkling respawns. Inklings can also be splatted from diving into water and dissolving, or falling off a ledge and exploding into a cloud colored of their ink. Inklings can respawn at [[spawn point|checkpoint]]s after being splatted in [[Octo Valley (mode)|Octo Valley]] and [[Octo Canyon (mode)|Octo Canyon]], though only working for a limited number of respawns. The online battle [[mode]]s allows for an infinite amount of respawns at the [[spawn point]]s. The [[special gauge]] decreases when splatted, even if full, unless the player is wearing 3 mains and 9 subs of [[Special Saver]] and the opponent is '''not''' wearing [[Respawn Punisher]].


===Audio===
However, in the ''[[Octo Expansion]]'' campaign, developers revealed that during the escape phases, [[Agent 8]], an [[Octoling]], does die if they get splatted as they are not connected to a spawn point, only checkpoints without respawning capabilities. This suggests that Inklings and Octolings do indeed die when splatted and need a means for them to respawn,<ref name="Splatoon 2 Famitsu interview">[https://www.famitsu.com/news/201807/21160955.html Famitsu ''Splatoon 2'' anniversary interview with the developers]</ref> possibly true due to the visual effects (i.e the 'ghost') when splatted.
*[[Media:Female inkling sounds.ogg|Female Inklings' voice clips]]
*[[Media:Male inkling sounds.ogg|Male Inklings' voice clips]]
*[[Media:Squid sisters sounds.ogg|Squid Sisters' voice clips]]
{{clr}}


==Culture==
==Culture==
[[File:Sunkenscroll4.png|thumb|left]]
[[File:S Sunken Scroll 4.png|thumb|left|A Sunken Scroll marking Turf War battles to be at least 2,000 years old.]]
Inkling culture has been heavily influenced by the ancient human cultures that came before them; as a result, Inkling architecture, fashion, art, and even the Inkling written language shows influence from Japanese, American, and other ancient human societies. It was implied that Inklings adapted much their own culture and mannerisms from the cities and towns they've taken as their own, and the fossils of human civilizations they have unearthed.
 
[[File:Inklings idle.gif|thumb|x200px|A pair of Inklings wearing various pieces of [[gear]].]]
Inkling culture is heavily influenced by the ancient human cultures that came before them; as a result, Inkling architecture, fashion, art, and even language shows influence from eastern and western human societies alike. It was implied that Inklings adapted much of their own culture and mannerisms from the fossils of human civilizations they have unearthed, and the blending of ancient human aesthetics and Inkling ingenuity is truly unique. The best collections of the Inkling lifestyle can be seen in major cities such as [[Inkopolis]], and [[Splatsville]]; cultural hot spots that draw in many young rural Inklings that seek a trendy and fresh lifestyle.<ref>[[The Art of Splatoon]]</ref>
Though much of their culture has been appropriated from humans, the Inklings have their own modern rendering on certain subjects, as well as cultural ideas of their own. Turf Wars as a sport are cultural high-point to many Inklings, with many youngsters participating in turf war events as a means of entertainment and relaxation. Turf wars also can be seen as a means of recreation and celebration, since the Inkling victory of the [[Great Turf War]].
 
"Freshness" is the most important aspect of Inkling culture. This is based on how recent and cool an Inkling's attire and general style is, as well as how proficient with weapons and skilled in battle an Inkling is. Freshness is so important that most business owners will refuse customers that are too inexperienced.
 
The cultural high-point to many Inklings are competitive battles, which serve as a means of entertainment, relaxation, and celebration of the Inkling victory during the [[Great Turf War]]. It is by far the most popular activity for young Inklings and include a variety of modes leading with [[Turf War]], and including [[Splat Zones]], [[Rainmaker]], [[Clam Blitz]], and [[Tower Control]].
 
Inklings hold onto strong values of 'turf', and any infrastructure is likely to be decorated with graffiti and tags, as if to declare ownership. The art book from the first ''Splatoon'' clarifies that the idea stemmed from the Turf War concept of spraying and drawing ink to claim territory, implying that some Inkling graffiti is drawn in ink.
 
Appearances play a major part in Inkling culture, and to many, being able to express themselves fully is a must. Inklings have invented many interesting ways the [[Player Settings|style their tentacles]], and have a huge variety of [[gear brand]]s and fashions. Besides the [[lobby]], the second most frequented spots in Inkling cities are the many shops that [[gear]] can be purchased from. Inklings can be seen gathered both inside and outside of local shops, socializing and showing off new gear.
 
Inkling [[music]] can easily be described as a cultural cornerstone, and is extremely varied in style and genre, from the rock band [[Squid Squad]] to the world famous pop idols, the [[Squid Sisters]]. Music can be heard during every battle as a way to hype up competitors, as well as in every shop and throughout Inkopolis and Splatsville.


Fashion is a major part of Inkling societies, to the point of coining the term ''"fresh"'' to signify how recent and cool an Inkling's attire and general style is. Freshness can be applied to many other aspects of Inkling life, such as [[Main Weapon|firearms]] and linguistics. Heavy focus on Inkling gear is commonplace, as Inklings will spend lots of their time and [[Cash]] shopping for new and interesting headgear, clothes, and shoes. Inklings can be seen gathered both inside and outside of local [[shops]], socializing and buying themselves new gear.
[[File:Splatfest Plaza 6.jpg|thumb|400x400px|Inkopolis Plaza decorated for a Splatfest.]]


Inkling music can be heard throughout [[Inkopolis]], from the rock band [[Squid Squad]], to the worldwide pop idols [[Squid Sisters]]. Many bands have members from completely different species, such as the anemone and lobster members of [[Chirpy Chips]], but the music industry seems to be largely comprised of Inklings.
Every so often, a [[Splatfest]] is held; a special festival that brings Inklings together for a large concert and celebration of opposing ideas, and can be seen as a merging of music and turf wars. Teams are formed around two (''Splatoon'', ''Splatoon 2'') or three (''Splatoon 3'') opposing topics, where members compete in turf wars in order to decide which is superior. This is a major event where an entire city may be transformed in celebration. Many Inklings can be seen on the streets dancing, enjoying live performances from the [[Squid Sisters]] (''Splatoon''), [[Off the Hook]] (''Splatoon 2''), or [[Deep Cut]] (''Splatoon 3''), and supporting their chosen teams by wearing [[Splatfest Tee]]s and producing topic-themed graffiti.


In ''Splatoon'', there are [[Splatfest]]s, a special event that brings Inklings together for a large concert and celebration of two opposing ideas, and can be seen as a merging of music and turf wars. Two teams are formed around two opposing topics (such as Cats versus Dogs) and compete in turf wars against each other. The more popular and/or the higher scoring team wins. For the entire duration of the Splatfests, the [[Squid Sisters]] perform. Miiverse posts by participating Inklings are highlighted during the event, showing up on billboards in the concert area and around the selected stages for that event.
Inklings have been described as easy-going, inattentive and living for fun; they did not take further concern when the [[Great Zapfish]] went missing and didn't seem too worried when [[Octoling]]s appeared in Inkopolis. Indeed, it is stated that during the Great Turf War, preliminary battles were easily won by Octarian forces simply because Inklings had failed to wake up early enough. Sunken Scrolls have described the Inkling mind as being simple and hedonistic, though this is most likely Octarian propaganda.<ref>[[List of Sunken Scrolls in Splatoon|Sunken Scroll 12]]</ref> Their work ethic seems to mirror their carefree and pleasure-seeking nature, as ''[[The Art of Splatoon 2]]'' mentions that many Inklings only take on part-time jobs. They easily forget about old trends and shift their interest on what is new, or fresh.<ref name="Splatoon 2 Famitsu interview" />


In ''Splatoon'', Inklings who compete in Turf Wars hang out in [[Inkopolis Plaza]], which is also the location of [[Booyah Base]], a strip mall containing different stores. This plaza is the hub for Splatfests and is where [[Inkopolis Tower]], holding the [[Great Zapfish]] that powers all of Inkopolis and also allows access to Turf Wars and [[Ranked Battles]], is located. Two years later, in ''Splatoon 2'', Inkopolis Plaza has been replaced by [[Inkopolis Square]], a location that can be accessed from Inkopolis Plaza through the use of the subway, and more stores have been opened there.
It was confirmed that Inkopolis resides in Japan, where the ''Splatoon'' franchise was created. Inkling society is heavily inspired by Japanese culture, with similar architecture, customs, spoken and written language, and dress. Some notable examples is the traditional Japanese dress worn by the Squid Sisters on multiple occasions, the clear ''[[wikipedia:Rakugo|rakugo]]'' set-up for the [[Anarchy Splatcast]], and rice as a popular food, as seen in the [[Rice vs. Bread]] [[Splatfest]]. [[Traditional Gear|Gear based on Japanese sushi shop uniforms]] were also released, hinting at Inklings eating sushi. This was implied again when Inklings were seen to eat 'hot dogfish' and 'fried catfish'. This is further pointed at when Callie says she is not good with seafood. The type of seafood is unknown, however.


===Squidmas===
===Squidmas===
[[File:Inkling Christmas Card.jpg|thumb|right|100px]]
[[File:Merry Squidmas 2017.jpg|thumb|left|300px|A festive Squidmas wallpaper.]]
Squidmas is an Inkling holiday that is assumed to be celebrated in the winter. Much is unknown about this holiday aside from its obvious likenesses to the human holiday of Christmas. From this, it is assumed that in the winter, a figure named ''Father Squidmas'' goes around the world giving out presents and freshness to all the good Inkling children. According to [[Callie]] of the [[Squid Sisters]], Father Squidmas can be found in the North Pole of the Earth, making gifts all year in preparation for Squidmas time. According to her cousin [[Marie]], Father Squidmas isn't real and all of their interactions with him are simply their [[Cap'n Cuttlefish|grandfather]] dressed up as him.
Squidmas is an Inkling holiday that is assumed to be celebrated during colder weather. Much is unknown about this holiday aside from its obvious likenesses to the human holiday of Christmas. From this, it is assumed that in the winter, a figure named ''Father Squidmas'' goes around the world giving out presents and freshness to all the good Inkling children.
 
According to [[Callie]] of the [[Squid Sisters]], Father Squidmas can be found in the North Pole of the Earth, making gifts all year in preparation for Squidmas time. According to her cousin [[Marie]], Father Squidmas isn't real and all of their interactions with him are simply their [[Cuttlefish|grandfather]] dressed up as him.
 
Squidmas is an additional element associated with the localization. The Japanese edition originally did not have it, as well as other regions, though official art celebrating the holidays does use the term "Squidmas".
{{clr}}
 
===Halloween===
[[File:Inkling Halloween.jpg|thumb|left|300px]]
Halloween is another holiday that Inklings celebrate as evidenced by the [[Trick vs. Treat (2018)|Trick vs. Treat]] Splatfest and [[Trick vs. Treat (2020)|its rematch]]. Just like the human holiday of the same name, Inklings and other species dress up in costumes and participate in trick or treating activities. Locations are likewise decorated with scary decor such as ghost, skeletons and glow-in-the-dark graffiti.


It is unknown if there are other Inkling holidays, or if they parallel to human holidays.
The event is also known as "Splatoween", though [[Marina]] specifies that Trick vs. Treat is a Halloween Splatfest, implying that the holiday's official name is Halloween. Official art made to celebrate the occasion uses the 'Halloween' term. The Japanese version also uses Halloween when referring to the event. Dialogue for a previous Splatfest, [[Fancy Party vs. Costume Party]], refers to the holiday as "Squidoween", but this could be a phrase added in the localization as versions in other languages don't mention the term.
{{clr}}


Squidmas is an additional element associated with the localization. The Japanese edition originally doesn't have it, and other regions may not have it.
===Gachi Bon Matsuri===
[[File:Chorus of Calamari County Gachi Bon Matsuri.jpg|thumb|left|300px]]


A two-day event themed after the [[wikipedia:Bon (festival)|''Bon'' festival]] for {{S}} was held starting {{date|2016-04-29}} through ''Niconico Chokaigi''. The name of the event can be translated as "[[Ranked Battle|Ranked]] (or competitive) Bon Festival". In an article from Nintendo, it was mentioned that while the Bon Festival is celebrated during summer in the human world, Inklings celebrate the holiday in the month of April.<ref>[https://topics.nintendo.co.jp/article/ff1c5c12-eff6-11e5-9d75-063b7ac45a6d {{NES}} 春なのにSplatoonガチ盆まつり、「超音楽祭2016」にシオカラーズ出演決定！]</ref> It included tournaments, giveaways, and ''Bon Odori'' dance sessions, as well as a viewing party for the [[Shiokalive at Chokaigi 2016|Squid Sisters concert]] at the ''Chokaigi'' Music Festival. To promote the event, [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RBG4KLnGjY a video] depicting a young Callie and Marie dancing to the [[Calamari Inkantation#Chorus of Calamari County|Chorus of Calamari County]] was released. Attendees were encouraged to learn the video's choreography with dance lessons being given on site. Some fans, many of them in cosplay, were invited on stage to dance to the song during the ''Bon Odori'' session. It is unclear if the event was supposed to reflect how Inklings celebrate the ''Bon'' Festival beyond the date.
{{clr}}
{{clr}}


==Splatting==
==Communication and language==
While in battle, Inklings can use their weapons to splat each other with ink. Standing in enemy ink will damage and slow down an Inkling's movement, but only enemy fire is able to splat an Inkling. When splatted by an enemy, Inklings explode into enemy ink, with their gear and weapons drop before dissolving shortly thereafter, and a ghost-like squid figure will rise into the air over where they were splatted. Inklings can also be splatted from diving into water and dissolving, or falling off a ledge and exploding into a cloud colored of their own ink. Inklings can respawn at [[Checkpoint]]s after being splatted in both [[Octo Valley (mode)|Octo Valley]] and online battle [[mode]]s. It is unknown whether or not being splatted is another term for dying and Inklings simply respawn after death, or if Inklings can actually die through other means.
[[File:Credits - Logo D.png|thumb|right|120px|An example of Inkling language.]]
 
{{main|Language in the Splatoon series}}
 
Inklings communicate with each other in the [[Language in the Splatoon series|Inkling language]], which to human ears sounds like high-pitched, distorted noises most commonly expressed using consonant-vowel parings (''i.e. woomy''). Written Inkling is shown to be extremely diverse and complex, with many different 'characters' and 'alphabets' that take the most inspiration from Japanese and English. Inkling appears frequently in-game: on signs, shops, [[Sunken Scroll]]s, clothing, etc. Much of the music in the ''Splatoon'' series features lyrics sung in Inkling, such as that performed by the [[Squid Sisters]]. When the player uses [[signal]]s to communicate with teammates in online battles, the player's Inkling is shown using Inkling translations.
 
===Audio===
Press the speaker icon or descriptive text to start or pause the audio.
*{{sound|Female Inklings' voice clips|Female inkling sounds.oga}} ([[:File:Female inkling sounds.oga|link to file information]])
*{{sound|Male Inklings' voice clips|Male inkling sounds.oga}} ([[:File:Male inkling sounds.oga|link to file information]])
*{{sound|Squid Sisters' voice clips|Squid sisters sounds.oga}} ([[:File:Squid sisters sounds.oga|link to file information]])
{{clr}}


==Profiles and bios==
==Quotes==
{{Quote|Transform into a squid to hide, climb walls, or travel at super speed in your own ink. But watch out for enemy ink—it'll hurt you!|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview">[http://splatoon.nintendo.com/overview/ {{NES}} ''Splatoon'' Overview]</ref>}}
{{Quote|Transform into a squid to hide, climb walls, or travel at super speed in your own ink. But watch out for enemy ink—it'll hurt you!|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview">[http://splatoon.nintendo.com/overview/ {{NES}} ''Splatoon'' Overview]</ref>}}
{{Quote|The squid-like residents of Inkopolis are totes crazy for color-flinging, ink-slinging, turf-splattering battles.|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview"/>}}
{{Quote|The squid-like residents of Inkopolis are totes crazy for color-flinging, ink-slinging, turf-splattering battles.|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview"/>}}
Line 85: Line 122:
{{Quote|Turn into a squid to move more quickly across your ink.|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview"/>}}
{{Quote|Turn into a squid to move more quickly across your ink.|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview"/>}}
{{Quote|Hide as a squid, then quickly switch to an Inkling to take enemies out of the action with a well-aimed splat.|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview"/>}}
{{Quote|Hide as a squid, then quickly switch to an Inkling to take enemies out of the action with a well-aimed splat.|Splatoon's official website|<ref name="Splatoon Overview"/>}}
==Gallery==
{{Gallery}}


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*According to the EDGE article, Inklings get full control of their squid and human forms at age 14. Since the playable Inklings seem to have full control of their squid and human forms, one can assume that they are at least 14 years old.
[[File:Octo Expansion Cap'n Cuttlefish quote - hearts.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Cuttlefish|Cap'n Cuttlefish]] saying "all of my hearts", implying that Inklings have more than one heart.]]
*An Inkling's ink color is random online unless the Ink Color Lock option has been turned on, while in [[Octo Valley (mode)|Octo Valley]], it depends on the chapter.
*When designing the Inklings, the ''Splatoon'' development team centered around the girl at first, to the extent that they thought at first to not have a boy Inkling. They emphasized on the girl Inkling because there weren't many female leads in Nintendo games and that having a strong, active female lead would make it easier to become accepted overseas. The boy Inkling was created later.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://nintendoeverything.com/splatoon-devs-on-Inkling-girl-design-focus-squid-sisters-and-more/ | title = Famitsu Interview with Splatoon development team | publisher = Posted by Brian on NintendoEverything | date = 2015-07-26 | accessdate= 2015-07-28 }}</ref>
*The developers said when they came up with the concept, they didn't consider [[mariowiki:Blooper|Bloopers]] from the [[mariowiki:Mario (series)|''Mario'' series]], despite the close resemblance between Bloopers and Inklings.
**The playable Inklings were originally designed as 17-year-olds since the developers wanted to give the image of a strong, rebelious character, with a "cool" attitude. But due to the boy looking too obedient at 17 they were aged down to 14-year-olds, though they were still designed as having the mood of 16 to 17-year-olds.<ref>[https://nintendoeverything.com/splatoon-staff-talk-about-the-Inkling-design-more-on-the-squid-sisters-and-other-topics/ Famitsu developer interview - NintendoEverthing translation: ''Splatoon'' staff talk about the Inkling design, more on the Squid Sisters, and other topics]</ref>
*A [[smashwiki:Trophy|trophy]] of a female Inkling appears in [[smashwiki:Super Smash Bros. 4|Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U]], which becomes available after downloading the Inkling Mii Fighter costumes.
 
**The trophy is actually shaped like the [[Amiibo#Inkling Girl|Inkling Girl amiibo]].
*''Splatoon'' developers have stated when they came up with the concept, they didn't consider [[mariowiki:Blooper|Bloopers]] from the [[mariowiki:Mario (series)|''Mario'' series]], despite the close resemblance between Bloopers and Inklings.
*When switching between [[gear]] on the [[equipment]] screen, there is sometimes a small delay before the selected piece of gear appears on the player's Inkling. For that moment, they will not be wearing any gear in that slot, which, for [[clothing]], reveals that they wear a tight, sleeveless black shirt by default. For [[shoes]], it shows their bare feet, which are flipper-like and featureless because of the fact that Inklings' feet are meant to never be seen. For [[headgear]], they simply look like they are wearing the [[Fake Contacts]], or no headgear. However, Inklings will always wear their [[Shorts]].
 
*When designing the Inklings, the ''Splatoon'' development team centered around the girl at first, to the extent that they thought at first to not have a boy Inkling. They emphasized on the girl Inkling because there weren't many female leads in Nintendo games and that having a strong, active female lead would make it easier to become accepted overseas. The boy Inkling was created later.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://nintendoeverything.com/splatoon-devs-on-inkling-girl-design-focus-squid-sisters-and-more/ | title = Famitsu Interview with Splatoon development team | publisher = Posted by Brian on NintendoEverything | date = 2015-07-26 | accessdate= 2015-07-28 }}</ref>
* According to the [[:File:Inklingdevelopment.png|Inkling Development Process]], Inklings finalize their kid form at the age of 14. Despite this, some Inklings might be able to assume this form much earlier, as seen in [[List of Sunken Scrolls in Splatoon#Scroll 17|Sunken Scroll 17]], where the [[Squid Sisters]] are shown as children in their kid form. Another example could be the [[List of Sunken Scrolls in Splatoon 2#Scroll 1|Sunken Scroll 1]] in ''Splatoon 2,'' which appears to be of a young [[Pearl]] in kid form. However, due to Pearl's adult appearance still being quite childlike, it is unclear if this photo was taken before or after the age of 14.
*The [[Live from Squid Research Lab|Squid Research Lab]] admitted that Inklings may be made entirely out of ink. This theory would explain why Inklings dissolve in [[water]], swim through [[grate]]s, and reform with ease after being splatted.<ref>[http://splatoonus.tumblr.com/post/107608490289/breaking-news-one-of-our-interns-recently-saw-a {{SRL}} Breaking News: One of our interns recently saw a...]</ref>
 
*It appears that Inklings have tongues, as seen in the [[Splatoon (manga)|''Splatoon'' manga]].
*The [[Squid Research Lab]] admitted that Inklings may be made entirely out of ink. This theory would explain why Inklings dissolve in [[water]], swim through [[grate]]s, and reform with ease after being splatted.<ref>[http://splatoonus.tumblr.com/post/107608490289/breaking-news-one-of-our-interns-recently-saw-a {{SRL}} Breaking News: One of our interns recently saw a...]</ref> This also may mean that in humanoid form, they hold themselves up with 'ink pressure', which means that they use a substance in ink to retain their ability to stand and walk upright.
*Inklings appear to use their weapons with their right hand, and there is no option to change that in the control settings, allowing the assumption that all Inklings are right-handed.
*Inklings seem to have multiple hearts, as implied by [[Cuttlefish|Cap'n Cuttlefish]] at the beginning of the ''[[Octo Expansion]]''. This could be a reference to how real-life [[Wikipedia:Cephalopod#Circulatory system|cephalopods]] have three hearts.
*While the player is swimming in squid form, the music is set to be more quiet than normal.
*An Inkling's ink color is chosen at random for online battles unless the Ink Color Lock option has been turned on.
{{gallery}}
* Inklings (and Octolings) can change their hair and ink color at will when out of battle, as seen in the ''Splatoon'' manga.
*Inklings are at least somewhat ambidextrous, wielding weapons like the [[Splatana Wiper]] with both hands, although they predominantly use their right hands with other weapons.
*While the player is swimming in squid form, the music is muffled and bubbling sounds can be heard. If a player is hit by an enemy's ink and is close to being splatted, when they submerge back into their ink to heal, the Inkling can be heard quietly moaning in pain.
*When switching between [[gear]] on the [[equipment]] screen, there is sometimes a small delay before the selected piece of gear appears on the player's Inkling. For that moment, they will not be wearing any gear in that slot.
**In ''Splatoon'', for clothing, they wear a tight, sleeveless black shirt by default. For shoes, it shows their bare feet, which are flipper-like and featureless because Inklings' feet are meant to never be seen. For headgear, they simply look like they are wearing the [[Fake Contacts]], or no headgear. However, Inklings always wear their [[Player Settings|shorts]].
**In ''Splatoon 2'', the gear-less Inklings can also be seen in [[Octo Canyon (mode)|Octo Canyon]] when they are in the temporary "danger" mode that occurs when their Hero Headphones, Hero Hoodie and Hero Boots break from taking fatal damage and after falling into water. Their legwear remains the same, but for clothing, the Inkling Boy is shirtless, while the Inkling Girl wears a black sports bra. For shoes, their feet are now properly rendered and have toes. They appear as if wearing Fake Contacts or not wearing headgear.
*Inklings have tongues as seen in the [[Splatoon (manga)|''Splatoon'' manga]] and the [[Naughty vs. Nice]] Splatfest artwork, but they are not usually seen on in-game models except for in ''Splatoon 3'' with [[Frye]].
*During the [[Squid vs. Octopus (2018)|Squid vs. Octopus]] [[Splatfest]], Octoling players on Team Squid would have their avatar switched to Inklings when inside battles. In Inkopolis Square, the avatar remained unchanged. The reverse was true for Inklings on Team Octopus.
*A [[smashwiki:Trophy|trophy]] of a female Inkling appears in [[smashwiki:Super Smash Bros. 4|Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U]], which becomes available after downloading the Inkling Mii Fighter costumes. The trophy is shaped like the [[Amiibo#Inkling Girl|Inkling Girl amiibo]].


==Names in other languages==
==Names in other languages==
{|
<div style="display:flex; gap:30px; justify-content:flex-start; flex-wrap:wrap; align-items:flex-start;">
|- style="vertical-align:top"
{{Localized name
|
|title=Inkling
''Inkling''
{{Foreignname
|color={{SiteColor|Generic}}
|Jap=インクリング
|Jap=インクリング
|JapR=Inkuringu
|JapR=Inkuringu
|JapM=Inkling
|JapM=Inkling
|Spa=Inkling
|SpaM=Inkling
|Fre=Inkling
|FreM=Inkling
|Dut=Inkling
|Dut=Inkling
|DutM=Inkling
|DutM=-
|Fra=Inkling
|FraM=-
|Ger=Inkling
|Ger=Inkling
|GerM=Inkling
|GerM=-
|Ita=Inkling
|Ita=Inkling
|ItaM=Inkling
|ItaM=-
|Por=Inkling
|PorM=Inkling
|Rus=Инклинг
|Rus=Инклинг
|RusR=Inkling
|RusR=Inkling
|RusM=Inkling
|RusM=Inkling
|Spa=Inkling
|SpaM=-
|ChiS=鱿鱼族
|ChiSR=yóuyú zú
|ChiSM=Literally "squid race", or Inkling. However, Inklings are more likely to be referred to as "squid", translation below
|ChiT=魷魚族
|ChiTR=yóuyú zú
|ChiTM=Literally "squid race", or Inkling. However, Inklings are more likely to be referred to as "squid", translation below
|KorR=ingkeulling
|KorM=Inkling
|Kor=잉클링
}}
}}
|
 
''Squid''
{{Localized name
{{Foreignname
|title=Squid
|color={{SiteColor|Generic}}
|Jap=イカ
|Spa=Calamar<br>Cefalópodo
|Nor=Blekksprut
|SpaM=Squid<br>Cephalopod
|FinM=Soft-bodied cephalopod (squid, octopus, cuttlefish)
|Hun=Tintahal
|HunM=Squid
|Kor=오징어
|KorM=Squid
|KorR=ojingeo
|NorM=Cephalopod
|DanM=Cephalopod
|Pol=Kałamarnice
|PolM=Squid
|Por=Lula<br>Molusco
|PorM=Squid<br>Mollusc
|Swe=Bläckfisk
|SweM=Cephalopod
|Fin=Mustekala
|Dan=Blæksprutte
|JapM=Squid
|GerM=Squid
|JapR=ika
|Dut=Inktvis
|DutM=Cephalopod
|Fre=Calamar
|Fre=Calamar
|FreM=Squid
|FreM=Squid
|Dut=Inktvis
|DutM=Inkfish
|Ger=Tintenfisch
|Ger=Tintenfisch
|GerM=Squid
|Ita=Calamaro
|Ita=Calamar
|CzeM=Pencil squid
|ItaM=Calamaro
|ItaM=Squid
|Por=Lula<br>Molusco
|Rus1=Кальмар
|PorM=Squid<br>Mollusc
|Rus1R=Kal'mar
|Rus=Кальмар<br>''Kal'mar''<br>Головоногий<br>''Golovonogiy''
|Rus2=Головоногий
|RusM=Squid<br><br>Mollusc
|Rus2R=Golovonogiy
|Rus1M=Squid
|Rus2M=Cephalopod
|SpaE=Calamar<br>Cefalópodo
|SpaEM=Squid<br>Cephalopod
|Cze=Olihně
|ChiS=鱿鱼
|ChiSM=Squid
|ChiSR=yóuyú
|ChiT=魷魚
|ChiTM=Squid
|ChiTR=yóuyú
}}
 
{{Localized name
|title=Fresh!
|Jap=イカす!
|JapR=ikasu!
|JapM=Cool!<ref group="note">Also a pun on イカ(''ika'', squid)</ref>
|Rus=Свежачок!
|RusR=Svezhachok!
|RusM=Freshness!
|SpaA=¡Chévere!
|SpaAM=Groovy!
|SpaE=¡Mola!
|SpaEM=Cool!
|ChiS=鱿型！
|ChiSR=yóu xíng!
|ChiSM=A pun on 有型; ''pinyin: yǒuxíng'', or stylish, and 鱿鱼; ''pinyin: yóuyú'', or squid.
|ChiT=
|ChiTR=
|ChiTM=
|Kor=어메이징!
|KorR=eomeijing!
|KorM=Amazing!<ref group="note">Also a pun on 오징어(''ojingeo'', squid)</ref>
}}
}}
|}
</div>
===Translation notes===
<references group="note"/>


==References==
==References==
<references/>
<references />


{{CharactersPro}}
{{Navbox/S Characters}}
{{Navbox/S2 Characters}}
{{Navbox/S3 Characters}}


[[Category:Characters]]  [[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Splatoon characters]]
[[Category:Splatoon characters]]
[[Category:Splatoon 2 characters]]
[[Category:Splatoon 2 characters]]
[[Category:Splatoon 3 characters]]
[[Category:Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]
[[fr:Inkling]]

Latest revision as of 03:23, 16 April 2024

This article is about the prominent species of squid in the Splatoon series. For other uses, see Inkling (disambiguation).
Squid redirects here. For other uses, see Squid (disambiguation).
Kid redirects here. For the Splatfest, see Kid vs. Grown-Up.
Inklings as seen in Splatoon 2, wearing various gear

Inklings are a species of humanoid cephalopods who are the main protagonists and playable characters in the Splatoon series, along with Octolings.

Background

The evolution of the Inkling.

Inklings are evolved species of squid that came to be after rising sea levels destroyed humanity. The first ancestors of modern Inklings are recorded to have lived around 5,000 years after the destruction of the human settlement of Alterna. Alterna inhabitants unintentionally accelerated the evolution of squids and other species of marine life, after psycho-reactive liquid crystals infused with lingering human thoughts and feelings leaked into the ocean surrounding the settlement.

At least 2,000 years before the events of Splatoon, Turf Wars were established. The original Turf Wars were overseen by Judd, a cat that was cryogenically frozen by his human owner before the Earth was flooded. 100 years before the events of Splatoon, the Inklings and the Octarians engaged in a Great Turf War after otherwise having good relations, when rising sea levels caused disputes over the remaining territory. The young Cap'n Cuttlefish and his Inkling comrades were victorious, forcing the Octarians to retreat to desolate areas such as Octo Valley, Octo Canyon, and take up residence underground.

Appearance

For a visual overview of character customization options, see Player Settings.
The development of an Inkling from infancy to maturity. From left to right: newborn, at least 1 year old, at least 4 or 5 years old, at least 8 years old, at least 14 years old.[1]

Young Inklings begin life resembling squid paralarvae, but grow into an increasingly human-like form as they age. By at most the age of 14, Inklings gain complete control over both these forms and can change between kid and squid at will. Between each game in the franchise, Inklings undergo design changes, generally becoming taller, and having more rounded and less squat faces. Additionally, in Splatoon and Splatoon 3, Inklings' tentacles have a darker color towards their tips.

The kid form is similar to that of a young human child, but with notable differences. Instead of hair, an Inkling has tentacle appendages that cover their head. These tentacles are colored on the outside, and white on the inside. The outer layer changes to match an Inkling's ink color, and usually features a spotted gradient to a secondary color at the ends of their longest tentacles. An Inkling's eyes are surrounded by a black 'eye mask', and they have pointed ears that are homologous to a squid's fins. Their mouths contain two ridges similar in shape to human teeth, with three larger sharp points--two on the top and one on the bottom--that resemble a squid's beak. The inside of an Inkling's mouth matches their ink color.

The humble squid.

The squid form resembles a small, cartoon-ish, monochromatic squid. They have several small arms in the middle of their bodies, with two large tentacles on either side. The squid have short mantle with relatively large fins, and two upward-facing, human-like eyes over the characteristic eye mask. The undersides of their tentacles are always white, regardless of ink color, and have a single large sucker near the end of each.

There are slight differences between male and female Inklings. In general, male Inklings style their tentacles shorter, have thicker eyebrows, and deeper voices. Female Inklings wear more of but are not limited to longer tentacle styles. Female Inklings are also slightly curvier. In Splatoon and Splatoon 2, the player must pick between male and female and can only use the tentacle styles available for each gender. In Splatoon 3, hairstyles and clothing items that were previously gender-locked can be worn by any Inkling.

Some Inklings (namely Callie, Marie, Pearl, and Frye) have special features unique to these characters. All four idols have plus-shaped pupils that are either brown or white, as opposed to the standard Inkling's black circular pupil. Callie, Marie, and Pearl have tentacles in colors not used by the regular Inkling, being black and white respectively. All idols have different ears: Callie and Marie (along with some Inklings shown in Splatoon official art) have curvy pointed ears. Pearl's ears are unusually small, and Frye's ears are unusually long and pointed. Frye in particular has the most unique appearance of any Inkling model found in game, with her exaggerated features and large eye mask.

Biology

The Inkling transformation between kid and squid
A diagram showing an inkling's (and squid's) ten tentacles

Both the Inklings' squid and kid form have particular abilities associated with them. In kid form, Inklings can splatter a special type of colored ink by using various weapons, including guns, rollers, buckets, paintbrushes, etc. This ink can be quickly spread over most surfaces, except for inflatable barriers, black pavement, and glass surfaces. This ink inhibits the movement of Inklings that do not have a matching color. When used as a projectile, ink can damage opposing Inklings, eventually 'splatting' them and forcing them to respawn.

In squid form, Inklings on dry land are only able to slither slowly. This changes when an Inkling submerges into ink of its own color, allowing it to swim at high speeds and jump over large distances. Inklings also use their squid forms to perform maneuvers such as the Squid Surge and Squid Roll, scale painted walls, and slip through wire fences and grates into areas that would be unreachable in kid form. As revealed in Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Inklings are indeed more flexible in squid form. However, squids cannot travel past striped barriers or over ledges, preventing them from swimming into inaccessible areas.

While submerged in ink, Inklings only create small ripples while swimming and become undetectable when still. In ink of their color, they quickly replenish their ink ammunition. In ink of a different color, Inklings become unable to remain in squid form and quickly revert to humanoid form. Inkling ink disappears rather quickly after a battle due to being consumed by microorganisms that have evolved to feed on the ink.

An Inkling after dissolving in water.

Inklings are unable to swim in water. When submerged, their body dissolves, leaving their clothes behind. The official American Splatoon Tumblr has mused that this may be because their bodies are made of liquid. Another fact to support this is that squid form Inklings can go through grates, which is also cited by the Tumblr account to be related to them possibly being made of liquid. Interviews with the producer of Splatoon and Splatoon 2, Hisashi Nogami, revealed that Inklings have a very thin and permeable outer membrane, which causes their ink to bleed out when in contact with water. They evolved this way to be able to transform freely between their kid and squid form, but lost the ability to be in water as a consequence.[2][3] A piece of trivia from Super Smash Bros. Ultimate also states that the Inklings' ink from their bodies will diffuse when submerged in water and which causes them to dissolve.[4]

Inklings possess the ability to change the color of their skin and eyes at will,[5] with the Splatlandian Inklings and Octolings also having the ability to have multicolored eyes. Skin color is not limited to human-like ones, Keaton of Wet Floor has turquoise skin, and Baker of C-Side has gray skin.

Glowing dots as seen in the Super Smash Bros. 2018 trailer.

Inklings are capable of producing a sort of bio-luminescence, an ability shared with certain real-life squid such as the firefly squid. In the dark, either during a Splatfest or certain Octo Valley missions, the player's Inkling will glow brightly in humanoid form, lighting up the area immediately around them and helping to differentiate the player from other Inklings. This glow disappears entirely upon assuming squid form. All Inklings (as well as jellyfish) in Inkopolis Plaza will give off a very faint glow during a Splatfest, visible only by looking at the ground around them. This bio-luminescence can also be spotted when viewing Inkling tentacles at low angle, with many tiny rainbow dots that glimmer faintly in the sunlight and brightly in pitch darkness.

Inklings take on a unique appearance when they have a special weapon ready; they give off sparks, the tentacles on their head become very brightly colored and glow, bubbles form at the top of their head as if from boiling water, and they appear to be caught in a strong wind even when completely still. Their appearance returns to normal once their special weapon has been used.

In the Splatoon manga, Vintage and his teammate Omega have the ability to sense opponents moving behind them. Bobble Hat, also from the manga, has similar abilities. It is unknown if any other Inklings have these abilities.

Splatting

Main article: Splat (occurrence)

While in battle, Inklings can use their weapons to 'splat' each other with ink. Standing in enemy ink will damage and slow an Inkling's movement, but only enemy fire can splat an Inkling. When splatted by an enemy, Inklings explode into enemy ink, with their gear and weapons dropping before dissolving shortly thereafter, and a ghost-like squid figure will rise into the air over where they were splatted. This ghost-like squid figure then travels to the spawn point where the Inkling respawns. Inklings can also be splatted from diving into water and dissolving, or falling off a ledge and exploding into a cloud colored of their ink. Inklings can respawn at checkpoints after being splatted in Octo Valley and Octo Canyon, though only working for a limited number of respawns. The online battle modes allows for an infinite amount of respawns at the spawn points. The special gauge decreases when splatted, even if full, unless the player is wearing 3 mains and 9 subs of Special Saver and the opponent is not wearing Respawn Punisher.

However, in the Octo Expansion campaign, developers revealed that during the escape phases, Agent 8, an Octoling, does die if they get splatted as they are not connected to a spawn point, only checkpoints without respawning capabilities. This suggests that Inklings and Octolings do indeed die when splatted and need a means for them to respawn,[6] possibly true due to the visual effects (i.e the 'ghost') when splatted.

Culture

A Sunken Scroll marking Turf War battles to be at least 2,000 years old.

Inkling culture is heavily influenced by the ancient human cultures that came before them; as a result, Inkling architecture, fashion, art, and even language shows influence from eastern and western human societies alike. It was implied that Inklings adapted much of their own culture and mannerisms from the fossils of human civilizations they have unearthed, and the blending of ancient human aesthetics and Inkling ingenuity is truly unique. The best collections of the Inkling lifestyle can be seen in major cities such as Inkopolis, and Splatsville; cultural hot spots that draw in many young rural Inklings that seek a trendy and fresh lifestyle.[7]

"Freshness" is the most important aspect of Inkling culture. This is based on how recent and cool an Inkling's attire and general style is, as well as how proficient with weapons and skilled in battle an Inkling is. Freshness is so important that most business owners will refuse customers that are too inexperienced.

The cultural high-point to many Inklings are competitive battles, which serve as a means of entertainment, relaxation, and celebration of the Inkling victory during the Great Turf War. It is by far the most popular activity for young Inklings and include a variety of modes leading with Turf War, and including Splat Zones, Rainmaker, Clam Blitz, and Tower Control.

Inklings hold onto strong values of 'turf', and any infrastructure is likely to be decorated with graffiti and tags, as if to declare ownership. The art book from the first Splatoon clarifies that the idea stemmed from the Turf War concept of spraying and drawing ink to claim territory, implying that some Inkling graffiti is drawn in ink.

Appearances play a major part in Inkling culture, and to many, being able to express themselves fully is a must. Inklings have invented many interesting ways the style their tentacles, and have a huge variety of gear brands and fashions. Besides the lobby, the second most frequented spots in Inkling cities are the many shops that gear can be purchased from. Inklings can be seen gathered both inside and outside of local shops, socializing and showing off new gear.

Inkling music can easily be described as a cultural cornerstone, and is extremely varied in style and genre, from the rock band Squid Squad to the world famous pop idols, the Squid Sisters. Music can be heard during every battle as a way to hype up competitors, as well as in every shop and throughout Inkopolis and Splatsville.

Inkopolis Plaza decorated for a Splatfest.

Every so often, a Splatfest is held; a special festival that brings Inklings together for a large concert and celebration of opposing ideas, and can be seen as a merging of music and turf wars. Teams are formed around two (Splatoon, Splatoon 2) or three (Splatoon 3) opposing topics, where members compete in turf wars in order to decide which is superior. This is a major event where an entire city may be transformed in celebration. Many Inklings can be seen on the streets dancing, enjoying live performances from the Squid Sisters (Splatoon), Off the Hook (Splatoon 2), or Deep Cut (Splatoon 3), and supporting their chosen teams by wearing Splatfest Tees and producing topic-themed graffiti.

Inklings have been described as easy-going, inattentive and living for fun; they did not take further concern when the Great Zapfish went missing and didn't seem too worried when Octolings appeared in Inkopolis. Indeed, it is stated that during the Great Turf War, preliminary battles were easily won by Octarian forces simply because Inklings had failed to wake up early enough. Sunken Scrolls have described the Inkling mind as being simple and hedonistic, though this is most likely Octarian propaganda.[8] Their work ethic seems to mirror their carefree and pleasure-seeking nature, as The Art of Splatoon 2 mentions that many Inklings only take on part-time jobs. They easily forget about old trends and shift their interest on what is new, or fresh.[6]

It was confirmed that Inkopolis resides in Japan, where the Splatoon franchise was created. Inkling society is heavily inspired by Japanese culture, with similar architecture, customs, spoken and written language, and dress. Some notable examples is the traditional Japanese dress worn by the Squid Sisters on multiple occasions, the clear rakugo set-up for the Anarchy Splatcast, and rice as a popular food, as seen in the Rice vs. Bread Splatfest. Gear based on Japanese sushi shop uniforms were also released, hinting at Inklings eating sushi. This was implied again when Inklings were seen to eat 'hot dogfish' and 'fried catfish'. This is further pointed at when Callie says she is not good with seafood. The type of seafood is unknown, however.

Squidmas

A festive Squidmas wallpaper.

Squidmas is an Inkling holiday that is assumed to be celebrated during colder weather. Much is unknown about this holiday aside from its obvious likenesses to the human holiday of Christmas. From this, it is assumed that in the winter, a figure named Father Squidmas goes around the world giving out presents and freshness to all the good Inkling children.

According to Callie of the Squid Sisters, Father Squidmas can be found in the North Pole of the Earth, making gifts all year in preparation for Squidmas time. According to her cousin Marie, Father Squidmas isn't real and all of their interactions with him are simply their grandfather dressed up as him.

Squidmas is an additional element associated with the localization. The Japanese edition originally did not have it, as well as other regions, though official art celebrating the holidays does use the term "Squidmas".

Halloween

Inkling Halloween.jpg

Halloween is another holiday that Inklings celebrate as evidenced by the Trick vs. Treat Splatfest and its rematch. Just like the human holiday of the same name, Inklings and other species dress up in costumes and participate in trick or treating activities. Locations are likewise decorated with scary decor such as ghost, skeletons and glow-in-the-dark graffiti.

The event is also known as "Splatoween", though Marina specifies that Trick vs. Treat is a Halloween Splatfest, implying that the holiday's official name is Halloween. Official art made to celebrate the occasion uses the 'Halloween' term. The Japanese version also uses Halloween when referring to the event. Dialogue for a previous Splatfest, Fancy Party vs. Costume Party, refers to the holiday as "Squidoween", but this could be a phrase added in the localization as versions in other languages don't mention the term.

Gachi Bon Matsuri

Chorus of Calamari County Gachi Bon Matsuri.jpg

A two-day event themed after the Bon festival for Splatoon was held starting 29 April 2016 through Niconico Chokaigi. The name of the event can be translated as "Ranked (or competitive) Bon Festival". In an article from Nintendo, it was mentioned that while the Bon Festival is celebrated during summer in the human world, Inklings celebrate the holiday in the month of April.[9] It included tournaments, giveaways, and Bon Odori dance sessions, as well as a viewing party for the Squid Sisters concert at the Chokaigi Music Festival. To promote the event, a video depicting a young Callie and Marie dancing to the Chorus of Calamari County was released. Attendees were encouraged to learn the video's choreography with dance lessons being given on site. Some fans, many of them in cosplay, were invited on stage to dance to the song during the Bon Odori session. It is unclear if the event was supposed to reflect how Inklings celebrate the Bon Festival beyond the date.

Communication and language

An example of Inkling language.
Main article: Language in the Splatoon series

Inklings communicate with each other in the Inkling language, which to human ears sounds like high-pitched, distorted noises most commonly expressed using consonant-vowel parings (i.e. woomy). Written Inkling is shown to be extremely diverse and complex, with many different 'characters' and 'alphabets' that take the most inspiration from Japanese and English. Inkling appears frequently in-game: on signs, shops, Sunken Scrolls, clothing, etc. Much of the music in the Splatoon series features lyrics sung in Inkling, such as that performed by the Squid Sisters. When the player uses signals to communicate with teammates in online battles, the player's Inkling is shown using Inkling translations.

Audio

Press the speaker icon or descriptive text to start or pause the audio.

Quotes

“ Transform into a squid to hide, climb walls, or travel at super speed in your own ink. But watch out for enemy ink—it'll hurt you! ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ The squid-like residents of Inkopolis are totes crazy for color-flinging, ink-slinging, turf-splattering battles. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ From squid…to kid…and back! Inklings can transform at will into squid form, so you've gotta master both if you want to win. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ Swim up ink-splattered walls and jump from one splat to another in squid form. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ Find shortcuts and navigate tricky areas. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ Avoid being targeted by baddies by hiding in your own ink. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ Turn into a squid to move more quickly across your ink. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]
“ Hide as a squid, then quickly switch to an Inkling to take enemies out of the action with a well-aimed splat. ”
— Splatoon's official website, [10]

Gallery

Image linking to the gallery page
➤ View the gallery

Trivia

Cap'n Cuttlefish saying "all of my hearts", implying that Inklings have more than one heart.
  • When designing the Inklings, the Splatoon development team centered around the girl at first, to the extent that they thought at first to not have a boy Inkling. They emphasized on the girl Inkling because there weren't many female leads in Nintendo games and that having a strong, active female lead would make it easier to become accepted overseas. The boy Inkling was created later.[11]
    • The playable Inklings were originally designed as 17-year-olds since the developers wanted to give the image of a strong, rebelious character, with a "cool" attitude. But due to the boy looking too obedient at 17 they were aged down to 14-year-olds, though they were still designed as having the mood of 16 to 17-year-olds.[12]
  • Splatoon developers have stated when they came up with the concept, they didn't consider Bloopers from the Mario series, despite the close resemblance between Bloopers and Inklings.
  • According to the Inkling Development Process, Inklings finalize their kid form at the age of 14. Despite this, some Inklings might be able to assume this form much earlier, as seen in Sunken Scroll 17, where the Squid Sisters are shown as children in their kid form. Another example could be the Sunken Scroll 1 in Splatoon 2, which appears to be of a young Pearl in kid form. However, due to Pearl's adult appearance still being quite childlike, it is unclear if this photo was taken before or after the age of 14.
  • The Squid Research Lab admitted that Inklings may be made entirely out of ink. This theory would explain why Inklings dissolve in water, swim through grates, and reform with ease after being splatted.[13] This also may mean that in humanoid form, they hold themselves up with 'ink pressure', which means that they use a substance in ink to retain their ability to stand and walk upright.
  • Inklings seem to have multiple hearts, as implied by Cap'n Cuttlefish at the beginning of the Octo Expansion. This could be a reference to how real-life cephalopods have three hearts.
  • An Inkling's ink color is chosen at random for online battles unless the Ink Color Lock option has been turned on.
  • Inklings (and Octolings) can change their hair and ink color at will when out of battle, as seen in the Splatoon manga.
  • Inklings are at least somewhat ambidextrous, wielding weapons like the Splatana Wiper with both hands, although they predominantly use their right hands with other weapons.
  • While the player is swimming in squid form, the music is muffled and bubbling sounds can be heard. If a player is hit by an enemy's ink and is close to being splatted, when they submerge back into their ink to heal, the Inkling can be heard quietly moaning in pain.
  • When switching between gear on the equipment screen, there is sometimes a small delay before the selected piece of gear appears on the player's Inkling. For that moment, they will not be wearing any gear in that slot.
    • In Splatoon, for clothing, they wear a tight, sleeveless black shirt by default. For shoes, it shows their bare feet, which are flipper-like and featureless because Inklings' feet are meant to never be seen. For headgear, they simply look like they are wearing the Fake Contacts, or no headgear. However, Inklings always wear their shorts.
    • In Splatoon 2, the gear-less Inklings can also be seen in Octo Canyon when they are in the temporary "danger" mode that occurs when their Hero Headphones, Hero Hoodie and Hero Boots break from taking fatal damage and after falling into water. Their legwear remains the same, but for clothing, the Inkling Boy is shirtless, while the Inkling Girl wears a black sports bra. For shoes, their feet are now properly rendered and have toes. They appear as if wearing Fake Contacts or not wearing headgear.
  • Inklings have tongues as seen in the Splatoon manga and the Naughty vs. Nice Splatfest artwork, but they are not usually seen on in-game models except for in Splatoon 3 with Frye.
  • During the Squid vs. Octopus Splatfest, Octoling players on Team Squid would have their avatar switched to Inklings when inside battles. In Inkopolis Square, the avatar remained unchanged. The reverse was true for Inklings on Team Octopus.
  • A trophy of a female Inkling appears in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, which becomes available after downloading the Inkling Mii Fighter costumes. The trophy is shaped like the Inkling Girl amiibo.

Names in other languages

Inkling
Language Name Meaning
Japan Japanese インクリング
Inkuringu		 Inkling
Netherlands Dutch Inkling -
CanadaFrance French Inkling -
Germany German Inkling -
Italy Italian Inkling -
Russia Russian Инклинг
Inkling		 Inkling
SpainMexico Spanish Inkling -
China Chinese (Simplified) 鱿鱼族
yóuyú zú		 Literally "squid race", or Inkling. However, Inklings are more likely to be referred to as "squid", translation below
Hong Kong Chinese (Traditional) 魷魚族
yóuyú zú		 Literally "squid race", or Inkling. However, Inklings are more likely to be referred to as "squid", translation below
South Korea Korean 잉클링
ingkeulling		 Inkling


Squid
Language Name Meaning
Japan Japanese イカ
ika		 Squid
Netherlands Dutch Inktvis Cephalopod
CanadaFrance French Calamar Squid
Germany German Tintenfisch Squid
Italy Italian Calamaro Squid
Russia Russian Кальмар
Kal'mar		 Squid
Головоногий
Golovonogiy		 Cephalopod
Spain Spanish (NOE) Calamar
Cefalópodo		 Squid
Cephalopod
China Chinese (Simplified) 鱿鱼
yóuyú		 Squid
Hong Kong Chinese (Traditional) 魷魚
yóuyú		 Squid
CzechRepublic Czech Olihně Pencil squid
Denmark Danish Blæksprutte Cephalopod
Finland Finnish Mustekala Soft-bodied cephalopod (squid, octopus, cuttlefish)
Hungary Hungarian Tintahal Squid
South Korea Korean 오징어
ojingeo		 Squid
Norway Norwegian Blekksprut Cephalopod
Poland Polish Kałamarnice Squid
Portugal Portuguese Lula
Molusco		 Squid
Mollusc
Sweden Swedish Bläckfisk Cephalopod


Fresh!
Language Name Meaning
Japan Japanese イカす!
ikasu!		 Cool![note 1]
Russia Russian Свежачок!
Svezhachok!		 Freshness!
Mexico Spanish (NOA) ¡Chévere! Groovy!
Spain Spanish (NOE) ¡Mola! Cool!
China Chinese (Simplified) 鱿型！
yóu xíng!		 A pun on 有型; pinyin: yǒuxíng, or stylish, and 鱿鱼; pinyin: yóuyú, or squid.
South Korea Korean 어메이징!
eomeijing!		 Amazing![note 2]

Translation notes

  1. ↑ Also a pun on イカ(ika, squid)
  2. ↑ Also a pun on 오징어(ojingeo, squid)

References

  1. ↑ Twitter Splatoon exhibition at Tower Records - concept art
  2. ↑ Gameinformer - Splatoon's Burning Questions Finally Answered
  3. ↑ Nintendo Switch news section interview with Nogami
  4. ↑ "In the Splatoon series, Inklings cover the ground and walls in ink, and then swim through that ink as a squid. But if they fall into water, the ink in their bodies will diffuse and they'll dissolve." - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Inkling Tips
  5. ↑ Splatoon 2 Direct
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Famitsu Splatoon 2 anniversary interview with the developers
  7. ↑ The Art of Splatoon
  8. ↑ Sunken Scroll 12
  9. ↑ Nintendo 春なのにSplatoonガチ盆まつり、「超音楽祭2016」にシオカラーズ出演決定！
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 10.6 10.7 Nintendo Splatoon Overview
  11. ↑ Famitsu Interview with Splatoon development team. Posted by Brian on NintendoEverything (2015-07-26). Retrieved on 2015 July 28.
  12. ↑ Famitsu developer interview - NintendoEverthing translation: Splatoon staff talk about the Inkling design, more on the Squid Sisters, and other topics
  13. ↑ Squid Research Lab Breaking News: One of our interns recently saw a...
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