View source for Splatoon 3

{{italic title}}
{{Infobox/Game
|color = {{SiteColor|Splatoon 3}}
|title = ''Splatoon 3''
|image = Splatoon 3 front cover NA.png
|caption = North American box art
|developer = Nintendo EPD
|publisher = [[Nintendo]]
|producer = [[Hisashi Nogami]]
|series = {{Ss}}
|platform = [[Nintendo Switch]]<br>[[Nintendo Switch 2]]<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com/successor/en-us/index.html {{NES}} nintendo.com/successor]</ref>
|released = Worldwide: {{date|2022-09-09}}<br>JP, KR: {{Date|2024-07-18}} (with DLC)<br>AU, NZ, EU: {{Date|2024-07-25}} (with DLC)
|genre = Third-person shooter
|modes = [[Wikipedia:Single-player|Single-player]], [[Wikipedia:Multiplayer|multiplayer]]
|media = Game card<br>Digital download (Nintendo eShop)
|size = 9.6 GB (standalone)<br>12.5 GB (with DLC)
|ratings = [[wikipedia:Japan|JP]]: All ages by [[wikipedia:Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]]<br>[[Wikipedia:South Korea|KR]]: All ages by [[Wikipedia:Game Rating and Administration Committee|GRAC]]<br>[[Wikipedia:Brazil|BR]]: L by [[Wikipedia:Brazilian advisory rating system|ClassInd]]<br>[[wikipedia:Germany|DE]]: 6+ by [[wikipedia:Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle|USK]]<br>[[wikipedia:Russia|RU]]: 6+ by [[wikipedia:On Protecting Children from Information Harmful to Their Health and Development|RARS]]<br>[[Wikipedia:Taiwan|TW]]: 6+ by [[Wikipedia:Bureau of Audiovisual and Music Industry Development|BAMID]]<br>[[wikipedia:Europe|EU]]: 7+ by [[wikipedia:PEGI|PEGI]]<br>[[wikipedia:North America|NA]]: Everyone 10+ by [[wikipedia:Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]]<br>[[Wikipedia:Mexico|MX]]: B by [[Wikipedia:Video game content rating system#Mexico|SEGOB]]<br>[[wikipedia:Australia|AU]]: Parental Guidance by [[wikipedia:Australian Classification Board|ACB]]
}}
'''''Splatoon 3''''' is the third entry in the {{Ss}} and the sequel to {{S2}}. Announced during the February 2021 [[Nintendo Direct]], it was released on the [[Nintendo Switch]] on {{date|2022-09-09}}. A physical version of the game with the {{S3EP}} DLC included released on {{Date|2024-07-18}} in Japan<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2024/June#1803611693366518195|@SplatoonJP on Twitter]]</ref> and South Korea,<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2024/June#1803625408270835834|@Nintendo_Korea on Twitter]]</ref> and {{Date|2024-07-25}} in Australia, New Zealand,<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2024/June#1803667885870477781|@NintendoAUNZ on Twitter]]</ref> and Europe.<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2024/July#1808071743380045907|@NintendoEurope on Twitter]]</ref>

Following the Team Chaos victory in the [[Chaos vs. Order]] [[Splatfest]], ''Splatoon 3''{{'s}} style is very chaotic, bringing post-apocalyptic, patchwork, and other chaotic elements together with the styles of both previous games.

''Splatoon 3'' expands the ''Splatoon'' series on many different fronts, with an extensive [[Return of the Mammalians|story mode]], new [[Salmon Run Next Wave|Salmon Run]] challenges and rewards, a wider range of customization with more options (including the additions of [[Splashtag]]s and the [[locker room]]), and the new [[mode]] [[Tableturf Battle]]. Additionally, ''Splatoon 3'' streamlines many aspects of the previous games. The [[lobby]] is reworked into a greatly expanded [[Test range|practice]] area accessible between matches, [[Splatfest]]s are overhauled with three teams rather than two and a new [[Tricolor Turf War]] mode, and the UI has been made more responsive and informative. Additionally, ''Splatoon 3'' is the first game in the series to have Korean<ref>{{NES}} [https://www.nintendo.co.kr/news/article/Q0tLM2I3MDI2bTZQbVNubmVCeUF0Zz09 Nintendo of Korea - 『젤다의 전설 스카이워드 소드 HD』, 『스플래툰 3』 등 한글화 발매와 Nintendo Switch 소프트웨어의 최신 정보 공개]</ref> and Chinese<ref>{{NES}} [https://www.nintendo.com.hk/topics/article/a_210218_01.html Nintendo of Hong Kong - Nintendo Switch專用遊戲軟體最新資訊公開！ 多款支援中文作品預定發售！]</ref> translations.

As of March 2024, ''Splatoon 3'' has sold 11.96 million copies.<ref>{{NES}} [https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2024/240507_3e.pdf Financial Results Explanatory Material: Fiscal Year Ended March 2024]</ref> ''Splatoon 3'' won the "Best Multiplayer Game" award at [[wikipedia:The Game Awards 2022|The Game Awards 2022]]. It was also nominated for "Best Family Game", but lost to ''[[WiKirby:Kirby and the Forgotten Land|Kirby and the Forgotten Land]]''.

==Development==
In an interview with the weekly [[wikipedia:Famitsu|''Famitsu'']] magazine from around July 2019<!-- translation was provided on 2019-07-17 in the cited source, but that might not be the actual interview date -->, ''Splatoon'' series producer [[Hisashi Nogami]] said that after completing ''Splatoon 2'', the team focused on the {{OE}} DLC as well as updates, and would not think about the future until completing version {{Ver|S2|5.0.0}} of the game. This means that ''Splatoon 3'' development had not started as of July 2019 and presumably started after the release of version 5.0.0 on {{date|2019-07-31}}.<ref>[https://japanesenintendo.wordpress.com/2019/07/17/splatoon-producer-says-splatoon-3-development-hasnt-started-yet/ ''Splatoon'' Producer Says ''Splatoon 3'' Development Hasn't Started Yet - Japanese Nintendo]</ref> This is quite different compared to the timing of the development of ''Splatoon 2'', which started immediately after ''Splatoon'' was released.

On {{date|2021-02-17}}, ''Splatoon 3'' was announced in a [[Nintendo Direct]].

On {{date|2021-09-23}}, more information was revealed about ''Splatoon 3'' in a Nintendo Direct, including new [[special weapon]]s, [[stage]]s, and [[music]], as well as the reveal of the single-player mode {{RotM}}.

On {{date|2022-01-01}}, the @SplatoonJP Twitter account posted a Tweet for the arrival of 2022. The post included a video with an [[Inkling]] performing a victory pose along with a jingle, while 2022 is written in [[ink]]. This revealed the return of the [[brush]] [[main weapon]] class, marking the final returning weapon class revealed.<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2022/January#1477082279625252864|@SplatoonJP on Twitter]]</ref>

On {{date|2022-01-27}}, Volume 16 of the [[Splatoon (manga)|''Splatoon'' manga]] was released with a teaser of the [[Agent 3 (Splatoon 3)|new Agent 3]] arriving in [[Splatsville]].

In a [[Nintendo Direct]] on {{date|2022-02-09}}, {{SRNW}}, a successor to {{SR}} from {{S2}}, was revealed to be a [[mode]] in ''Splatoon 3'', introducing new [[Boss Salmonid]]s, Egg Throwing, and the [[King Salmonid]]s. It was also confirmed that the game would be released in the summer of 2022.

On {{date|2022-04-22}}, a fourth trailer for ''Splatoon 3'' was released, showing gameplay of a [[Turf War]] and revealing the release date to be {{date|2022-09-09}}.<ref>{{YT}} [https://youtu.be/Rkz-PjCQjWk ''Splatoon 3'' – Release Date Revealed - Nintendo Switch]</ref><ref>{{NES}} [https://www.nintendo.com/us/whatsnew/enter-the-splatlands-when-splatoon-3-surfaces Enter the Splatlands When ''Splatoon 3'' Surfaces on Sept. 9 - News - Nintendo Official Site]</ref> It was also revealed that the game would support cloud saves (for offline play data) and that there would not be separate regional versions, meaning that all language options would be available to every player.<ref>{{TWI}} [https://twitter.com/asasasa98765/status/1517509294346084352 @asasasa98765 on Twitter]</ref>

On {{date|2022-08-10}}, an approximately thirty-minute long Nintendo Direct focused entirely on ''Splatoon 3'', titled the ''Splatoon 3'' Direct, was aired, revealing many new details about various aspects of the game, such as its modes, characters, stages, weapons, etc. A free demo of the game called the ''[[Splatoon 3 Splatfest World Premiere]]'' was also revealed.<ref>{{YT}} [https://youtu.be/aiuIZN0KDFQ ''Splatoon 3'' Direct - Nintendo Switch]</ref>

On {{date|2022-08-25}}, Nintendo Treehouse showed off some gameplay of the game's story mode, such as the reveal of the first level of [[Future Utopia Island]], {{RotMMission|01|01}} [[Get to Know Alterna, Your Only Choice]].

On {{date|2022-08-27}}, the ''Splatoon 3 Splatfest World Premiere'' was started at different time zones with 26 [[Main weapon|weapons]] to use and a variety of different [[gear]] to wear. A single [[Splatfest]] took place in the demo, the theme of which was [[Rock vs. Paper vs. Scissors]]. After the Splatfest's results were announced, the demo ended.

On {{date|2022-09-09}}, ''Splatoon 3'' was released.

[[File:S3 Splatsville 2022.jpg|thumb|Splatsville]]

==Story==
The game takes place five years after the events of {{S2}} in [[the Splatlands]], a sun-scorched desert inhabited by battle-hardened [[Inkling]]s and [[Octoling]]s, and [[Splatsville]], a city of chaos that developed rapidly since the last [[Splatfest]] of ''Splatoon 2'', [[Chaos vs. Order]].<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2021/February#1362182787139137537|@NintendoAmerica on Twitter]]</ref> The game's design is themed around chaos due to the outcome of the Splatfest.<ref>{{NES}} [https://www.nintendo.com/us/whatsnew/ask-the-developer-vol-7-splatoon-3-part-1/ Ask the Developer Vol. 7, ''Splatoon 3''–Part 1 - News - Nintendo Official Site]</ref>

The ''Splatoon 3'' single-player story mode is called "{{RotM}}". [[Octarian]]s return as the primary enemies, but the majority of them now appear [[Fuzzy Octarian|mutated]] with brown fur and purple eyes. The story starts in [[The Crater|the Crater]] where the player's character, an Inkling or Octoling accompanied by their companion [[Smallfry (character)|Smallfry]], is recruited by [[Cuttlefish|Craig Cuttlefish]] into the [[New Squidbeak Splatoon]] as the [[Agent 3 (Splatoon 3)|new Agent 3]]. The majority of the mode takes place in a location beneath the Crater called [[Alterna]], a large, snowy area littered with incomplete structures and hazardous [[Fuzzy Ooze]] with a [[The Spirit Lifter|rocket]] at its center. [[Callie]], [[Marie]], and the [[Agent 3 (Splatoon)|Captain]] (the former Agent 3 from the previous games who is now the captain of the group following Cuttlefish's retirement) appear in this area to aid the player in their goal of exploring Alterna and finding Cuttlefish, who went missing shortly after recruiting the player.
{{Clear}}

==Gameplay==
[[File:S3 promo screenshot Trizooka 04.jpg|thumb]]

Like its predecessors, ''Splatoon 3'' is a third-person shooter game focused on online multiplayer ink battles, in which eight players are divided into two teams of four. Players have two main forms and may switch between the two at will: their humanoid form, in which they can use [[weapon]]s to spread [[ink]] and [[Splat (occurrence)|splat]] opponents, and their swim form - with a squid or octopus appearance, which, if they enter their team's ink while in the form, allows them to swim through ink at greater speeds, including up walls, recharge their [[ink tank]] faster, and hide from opponents.

Players have access to new movement techniques to dodge attacks and expand the possibilities of attacks. A [[Mobility#Squid Roll|Squid Roll]] allows them to leap and twirl out of their ink and a [[Mobility#Squid Surge|Squid Surge]] allows them to quickly swim up ink-covered walls and jump out at the top, and both have a short phase of invincibility.<ref>{{NES}} [https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/splatoon-3-switch/ ''Splatoon™ 3'' for Nintendo Switch - Nintendo Official Site]</ref> Additionally, [[medal]]s<!-- change this link once a page for S3 medals is made --> are now awarded at the end of multiplayer matches for various accomplishments, such as inking the most and getting the most splats.

In the Splatlands, players in online battles enter the battlefield with a [[spawner]]. It floats above the stage behind each base and allows players to aim at their desired deployment location within that team's spawn area. After choosing where to deploy, the spawner launches players to that location in squid or octopus form similar to a [[Super Jump]].<ref>{{TWI}} [[Inkipedia:Twitter archive/2021/February#1362182804600070144|@NintendoAmerica on Twitter]]</ref> If a player is splatted, they respawn in the spawner and launch in the same way a battle starts.

In the [[Return of the Mammalians|story mode]], [[Smallfry (character)|Smallfry]], nicknamed "little buddy", accompanies the player. It can be thrown to attack [[Octarian]]s, interact with contraptions to solve various puzzles, and remove hazardous [[Fuzzy Ooze]].

== Characters ==
{{Main|Character}}

[[File:RotM Key artwork horizontal.jpg|thumb|Several characters that appear in {{RotM}}.]]
[[File:SO Key art.jpg|thumb|Several characters that appear in {{S3SO}}.]]

===Protagonists===
* [[Inkling]]s
* [[Octoling]]s
* [[Agent 3 (Splatoon 3)|Agent 3]] and [[Smallfry (character)|Smallfry]]
* [[Agent 8]]

===Secondary===
* [[Deep Cut]]
** [[Shiver]]
** [[Frye]]
** [[Big Man]]
* [[Cuttlefish]]
* [[New Squidbeak Splatoon]]
** [[Squid Sisters]]
*** [[Callie]], also known as Agent 1
*** [[Marie]], also known as Agent 2
** [[Agent 3 (Splatoon)|Captain]], the former Agent 3 from ''Splatoon'' as the new leader of the group
* [[O.R.C.A.]]
* [[DJ Octavio]]
* [[Judd]] and [[Li'l Judd]]
* [[Sheldon]]
* [[Gnarly Eddy and Nails]]
* [[Jel La Fleur]]
* [[Mr. Coco]]
* [[Harmony]]
* [[Murch]]
* [[Staff]]
* [[Shelly and Donny]]
* [[Annie and Moe]]
* [[Jelonzo]]
* [[Fred Crumbs]]
* [[Spyke]]
* [[Off the Hook]]
** [[Pearl]]
** [[Marina]]
* [[Acht]]
* [[Bisk]]
* [[Jelfonzo]]
* [[Flow and Craymond]]
* [[Cipher]]
* [[Crusty Sean]]
* [[Zapfish]]
* [[Super Sea Snail]]s

===Antagonists===
* [[Octarian]]s
* [[Salmonid]]s
* [[Mr. Grizz]]
* [[Jelleton]]s
* [[Overlorder]]

== Player customization ==
{{Main|Player Settings#Splatoon 3}}
[[File:S3 Player Settings.png|thumb|Selecting a style.]]

The genders of the [[Inkling]]s and [[Octoling]]s are no longer explicitly stated. Instead, the player "selects a style". Additionally, Octolings can now be selected from the start rather than having to be unlocked from paid DLC first.

New [[Player Settings]] have been added:

* Two new skin tones in addition to the seven returning, for a total of nine.
* Seven new eye colors, including six heterochromatic eyes that form a gradient from one color to another, in addition to 14 returning colors, for a total of 21. Some of these new eye color options feature colored pupils.
* New hairstyles and legwear.
** Hairstyles and legwear are no longer split between genders, meaning either style can access any hairstyle or legwear option. Hairstyles are still split between species.
** Four new Inkling hairstyles and four new Octoling hairstyles are available, many of which are asymmetrical. All 16 hairstyles from {{S2}} return, for a total of 24 options.
** Four new legwear options have been added in addition to the eight returning, for a total of 12.
* The player can now also customize their character's eyebrow shapes. There are new eyebrow options in addition to four eyebrow shapes from previous games (that previously matched the character's species and gender). In addition to their classic eyebrows, they can have the same eyebrows but with a slit, rounded eyebrows (for Inkling girls), triangular eyebrows (for Inkling boys), teardrop-shaped eyebrows (for Octolings), thin eyebrows (for Inklings), and curved eyebrows (for Octolings).
* The player now has a [[Smallfry (character)|Smallfry companion]], that plays a role in the [[Return of the Mammalians|single-player mode]]. Their hairstyle can be customized, with a total of seven different options.
* Each player now has their own customizable [[Splashtag]], displaying the player's username and ID number alongside customizable [[title]]s, [[badge]]s, and a [[banner]]. These are displayed in certain situations, such as at the start and end of battles and when viewing players in the square. In the player's first battle, they use a default Splashtag with the default username of "Player"; after their first battle is complete, they unlock username and Splashtag customization. More titles, badges, and banners can be obtained in various ways.
** Usernames can now be changed directly in the game independently of the player's [[Nintendo Switch]] username. Their username after their first battle defaults to their Switch username but is otherwise no longer determined by it.
* Players can now customize the [[emote]]s that they perform upon winning battles. Unlike in the previous games, there are no longer animations for when players lose; instead, only the winning team of the battle is shown regardless of whether that was the player's team, at which point all players on that team are seen performing their selected emotes.
* Players can now choose which of four Splatfest regions to take part in (Americas/Oceania, Europe, Japan, and SE Asia/Hong Kong) about once every two months. This also defines which region's plaza art and Top 100 they see.
** Choosing Japan prompts a warning that not all Japan-region Splatfests have support in other languages.
* Players can now choose which of two [[X Battle]] divisions to take part in (Tentatek for mostly Western players, Takoroka for mostly Eastern players) once per season.

[[File:S3 Fashion 3D Render.jpg|thumb|Inklings and Octolings with new gear and customization options.]]

New [[gear]] has been added, along with returning gear.

* Three new brands have been introduced:
**[[Barazushi]] makes high-quality technical wear for both hot and cold regions, like parkas and hoodies.
**[[Emberz]] produces mostly patchwork clothing with an addition of other pieces, representing the chaotic ethos of [[Splatsville]].
**[[Z+F]] is a collaboration between the brands [[Zekko]] and [[Firefin]], producing street-savvy gear inspired by hip-hop and skater roots.
* Numerous returning brands have new gear, such as [[Enperry]], [[Forge]], [[Krak-On]], and [[Toni Kensa]].
** Due to the new brand Z+F, the brands Zekko and Firefin do not have any new gear, with all their gear instead returning from previous games.

== Locations ==
[[File:S3 Alterna loading screen.png|thumb|A map of Alterna]]
[[File:Inkadia and the Splatlands.png|thumb|A map of [[Inkadia]] and [[the Splatlands]].]]
[[File:SO Spire of Order.jpg|thumb|The Order Sector]]

* [[The Splatlands]]
** [[Splatsville]]
*** [[Ammo Knights]]
*** [[Naut Couture]]
*** [[Man-o'-Wardrobe]]
*** [[Crush Station]]
*** [[Hotlantis]]
*** [[Crab-N-Go]]
*** [[Lobby#Lobby Tower|Lobby Tower]]
**** [[The Shoal]]
**** [[Test range]]
*** [[Grizzco Industries]]
*** [[Tableturf Battle Dojo]]
** [[Scorch Gorge]]
** [[Eeltail Alley]]
** [[Hagglefish Market]]
** [[Undertow Spillway]]
** [[Mincemeat Metalworks]]
** [[Brinewater Springs]]
** [[Um'ami Ruins]]
** [[Barnacle & Dime]]
** [[Crableg Capital]]
** [[Shipshape Cargo Co.]]
** [[Marlin Airport]]
** [[Lemuria Hub]]
* [[Alterna]]
*[[The Crater]]
* [[Inkadia]] (also known as Greater [[Inkopolis]])
** [[Inkopolis Plaza]]
*** [[Inkopolis Tower]]
** [[Inkopolis Square]]
*** [[Deca Tower]]
** [[Flounder Heights]]
** [[Hammerhead Bridge]]
** [[Museum d'Alfonsino]]
** [[Mahi-Mahi Resort]]
** [[Inkblot Art Academy]]
** [[Sturgeon Shipyard]]
** [[MakoMart]]
** [[Wahoo World]]
** [[Manta Maria]]
** [[Humpback Pump Track]]
** [[Bluefin Depot]]
* [[Order Sector]]
** [[Spire of Order]]
* [[Sockeye Station]]
* [[Gone Fission Hydroplant]]
* [[Spawning Grounds]]
* [[Marooner's Bay]]
* [[Jammin' Salmon Junction]]
* [[Salmonid Smokeyard]]
* [[Bonerattle Arena]]

== Modes ==
=== Turf War ===
There are no changes to the rules of [[Turf War]] in ''Splatoon 3'' besides the addition of [[spawner]]s. As in previous games, Turf War is the only [[Regular Battle]] mode.

=== Tricolor Turf War ===
First introduced in the [[Splatoon 3 Splatfest World Premiere|Splatfest World Premiere]], [[Tricolor Turf War]] is a new mode in ''Splatoon 3''. This mode is only available in the second half of a [[Splatfest]] and is an altered version of the Turf War mode in which the three Splatfest teams battle in one Turf War. The Splatfest team that was in the lead at the Halftime Report of the Splatfest has four players in the match and starts in the middle of the [[stage]], while the other two teams have two players each and start at opposite ends of the stage. In the middle of the stage, there is a device called the [[Ultra Signal]]. If a member of one of the two losing Splatfest teams captures the Ultra Signal by holding it for long enough, a [[Sprinkler of Doom]] appears and constantly rains that team's color for the rest of the match, and it cannot be destroyed. The person trying to capture the Ultra Signal is immobile while capturing it, so they can be [[Splat (occurrence)|splatted]] in the process, causing them to lose it.

=== Anarchy Battle ===
[[Anarchy Battle]] is a new mode that replaces [[Ranked Battle]]s from previous games. It features all four modes from Ranked Battles that previously appeared (namely [[Splat Zones]], [[Tower Control]], [[Rainmaker]], and [[Clam Blitz]]) on rotation and the returning [[rank]] system. There are two types of Anarchy Battles, Series and Open; Series Anarchy Battles do not allow for friends to join each other and use a new best out of five rulesets by which losing three battles results in a loss, while winning five battles results in a victory. Open Anarchy Battles are standalone battles in which players have the option to either join their friends or play solo.

=== Challenge ===
[[Challenge]] is a new mode that replaces [[League Battle]] from {{S2}}, only available in limited rotations. Challenge battles usually have special conditions added. Players can compete either solo or in a team to gain Challenge Power. Challenge was first added in [[Sizzle Season 2023]].

=== X Battle ===
[[X Battle]] replaces {{S2}}{{'s}} X Rank from [[Ranked Battle]]s, featuring the same four ranked modes but on a separate rotation, available only to players who have achieved a rank of S+0 or above in Anarchy Battles during the current season.<ref>{{S3Site}} [https://splatoon.nintendo.com/en/news/squid-research-lab-dives-deep-into-the-splatlands/ ''Splatoon™ 3'' – Confidential Report: Squid Research Lab dives deep into the Splatlands – Official Nintendo Site]</ref> X Battle was added to the game on {{date|2022-12-01}} as part of the [[Chill Season 2022]] update.<ref>{{S3Site}} [https://splatoon.nintendo.com/en/news/a-new-season-of-splatoon-3-content-is-about-to-surface/ ''Splatoon™ 3'' – A new season of ''Splatoon 3'' content is about to surface! – Official Nintendo Site]</ref>

=== The Shoal ===
[[The Shoal]] allows [[Private Battle]]s and [[Salmon Run Next Wave|Salmon Run]] to be played locally with other nearby players. Like in the [[lobby]], the player can now move around inside the building, and it houses its own [[test range]] that can be used while waiting for battles or shifts to start.

=== Tableturf Battle ===
[[Tableturf Battle]] is an adaptation of [[Turf War]] styled after a card game and involves various cards depicting [[character]]s and [[weapon]]s that fill areas like in a Turf War. As of Drizzle Season 2023, there are over 200 different cards that players can use to build a deck; they correspond to various shapes that can be used to cover turf and they can be charged up to cover additional turf, with the winner of the game being whoever covers the most squares of turf. The mode takes place in the [[Tableturf Battle Dojo]] and can be played against [[List of Tableturf Battle rivals in Splatoon 3|various CPU-controlled enemies]], with online play against other players added at the beginning of [[Fresh Season 2023]].

=== Salmon Run Next Wave ===
[[File:Salmon Run Next Wave Main Artwork.jpg|305px|thumb|Salmon Run Next Wave promotional image]]

{{SRNW}}  is a horde mode that is the successor to {{SR}} from {{S2}}, introducing new [[Boss Salmonid]]s, [[stage]]s, and mechanics, such as Egg Throws, [[King Salmonid]]s, and [[Big Run]]s. The mode can now be played at any time, rather than being available on a set schedule. It is accessible from a [[Grizzco Industries]] building in [[Splatsville]], which, like the [[lobby]], can now be freely moved around in and houses its own [[test range]] that can be used while waiting for shifts to start.
{{Clear}}

== Stages ==
{{main|Stage}}

=== Multiplayer ===
{{Navbox/S3 Stages}}
{{Clear}}

=== Salmon Run ===
* [[Sockeye Station]] - A new stage in the {{SRNW}} mode, with a similar aesthetic to previous {{SR}} stages.
* [[Spawning Grounds]] - The basic Salmon Run stage from {{S2}} returns with minimal changes.
* [[Gone Fission Hydroplant]] - A new stage, shown in the ''Splatoon 3'' Direct. It is next to a large hydroplant.
* [[Marooner's Bay]] - Another Salmon Run stage from ''Splatoon 2'' returns with minimal changes, added in [[Chill Season 2022]].
* [[Jammin' Salmon Junction]] - A new stage introduced in [[Sizzle Season 2023]]. It is on a collapsed multilane highway.
* [[Salmonid Smokeyard]] - Another Salmon Run stage from ''Splatoon 2'' returns with minimal changes, added in [[Drizzle Season 2023]].
* [[Bonerattle Arena]] - A new stage introduced in [[Fresh Season 2024]]. It is set in a former penal colony converted into a Salmonid arena.
{{Clear}}

== Weapons ==
=== Main weapons ===
[[File:S3 promo screenshot Tri-Stringer 01.jpg|thumb|The [[Tri-Stringer]]]]

* The [[stringer]] class was added, of which there are three; the [[Tri-Stringer]], [[REEF-LUX 450]], and the [[Wellstring V]]. Once charged, it fires strings of ink simultaneously. Stringers also have two stages of charge, as first seen in the Nintendo Switch OLED trailer.
* The [[splatana]] class was released, consisting of the [[Splatana Wiper]], [[Splatana Stamper]], and the [[Decavitator]]. Splatanas fire slashes of ink when used and can perform a charged slash to deal more damage to a faraway opponent or instantly splat an [[Inkling]] or [[Octoling]] within melee range.
* All base main weapons from previous games return, except for the [[Dual Squelcher]]. However, no second variants were available at launch.
* The [[Painbrush]] introduced in [[Sizzle Season 2023]] is the first new entry in the brush class since the original roster from ''[[Splatoon]]''.

=== Sub weapons ===
* All [[sub weapon]]s in ''Splatoon 2'' return in ''Splatoon 3''. They have retained most of their attributes from previous games.
* A new sub weapon named the [[Angle Shooter]] was added. It is thrown in a straight line, bouncing off any surface and leaving behind a trail. Directly hitting enemies with the projectile deals damage, and both the projectile and its trail [[mark]] enemies on contact, allowing them to be seen through opaque obstacles similar to the [[Point Sensor]].
** It is part of the [[Big Swig Roller Express]], [[Bloblobber Deco]], [[Jet Squelcher]], [[Rapid Blaster Pro Deco]], [[Recycled Brella 24 Mk I]], [[Splattershot Pro]], and [[Slosher Deco]]'s sets.

=== Special weapons ===
<!---[[File:S3 promo screenshot Crab Tank 00.jpg|thumb|The Crab Tank, one of the new special weapons.]]--->
{{Main|Special weapon}}

{| class="wikitable sortable sitecolor-s3" style="text-align:center"
|-
!style="white-space: pre;"| Special Weapon!!New!!Returning!! class="unsortable" |Main Weapons!! class="unsortable" |Description
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Trizooka}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splattershot|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Hero Shot Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Clash Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Squeezer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Carbon Roller Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Tenta Sorella Brella|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Sloshing Machine Neo|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Glooga Dualies Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Shot Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |Similar to the [[Inkzooka]], a rocket launcher-like weapon is summoned. Players can shoot up to three large ink-ball clusters that travel in an arc. The globs explode on impact. Players can swim with the weapon equipped.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Big Bubbler}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splattershot Jr.|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|H-3 Nozzlenose D|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splat Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Classic Squiffer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Zink Mini Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Recycled Brella 24 Mk I|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Mint Decavitator|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Roller Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}
||A deployable shield dome. Inside the dome is a generator that can be [[Super Jump]]ed to like a [[Squid Beakon]]. The shield protects anyone inside from attacks, but attacking the shield slightly damages it and shrinks its radius. Attacks done to the generator inside the dome or the propeller on top of the dome damage and shrink it faster. Additionally, enemies can walk into the dome.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Zipcaster}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Luna Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Carbon Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Light Tetra Dualies|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Octobrush|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Slosher Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splatana Stamper|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|New Squiffer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Blaster Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Splatana Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Orderbrush Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A grappling hook-like special allowing players to extend their arms to latch on to walls or other surfaces, creating a small explosion of ink upon impact. Players can use their main weapon throughout the special's duration, and they jump back to the special's activation location when it runs out.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Tenta Missiles}}|| {{N/A}} || {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Flingza Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Goo Tuber|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|REEF-LUX 450|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splatana Wiper Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Painbrush Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |Players can lock on to targets and fire off a set of missiles. The missiles follow their target and strike from the sky.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Ink Storm}}|| {{N/A}} || {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Jet Squelcher|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Big Swig Roller Express|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Bloblobber|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Explosher|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Nautilus 47|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Octobrush Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Snipewriter 5B|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A cloud that rains ink over the map for some time. The rain droplets lightly damage enemies.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Booyah Bomb}}|| {{N/A}} || {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Aerospray RG|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Forge Splattershot Pro|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Sloshing Machine|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Hydra Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Glooga Dualies|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|S-BLAST '91|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A super-charged ball of ink that rapidly expands after being thrown to a surface. While charging, the player is coated in a protective layer of ink and suspended in the air. Teammates can help charge the special faster by using the "Booyah!" [[signal]], and also receive a small increase to their special gauge if they do so.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Wave Breaker}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Splattershot Jr.|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Range Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|E-liter 4K|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|E-liter 4K Scope|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Heavy Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dualie Squelchers|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Painbrush|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dread Wringer D|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Wellstring V|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Splatling Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A device that emits shockwaves across the floor. If the waves hit an enemy player, they take damage and are [[Mark|marked]] for a short amount of time.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Ink Vac}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|.96 Gal|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Jet Squelcher|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Rapid Blaster Pro|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Big Swig Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splat Charger|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splatterscope|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Tenta Brella|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Ballpoint Splatling Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Charger Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A vacuum that sucks in any ink or projectiles fired towards it. After a set amount of time or once the vacuum is filled, players can fire a blast of ink that explodes upon impact.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Killer Wail 5.1}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} ||{{Weapon|S3|Main|Neo Sploosh-o-matic|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|.52 Gal|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splattershot Nova|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Inkbrush|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Bamboozler 14 Mk I|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Rapid Blaster Pro Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Tri-Stringer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Douser Dualies FF|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Stringer Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |Six floating lasers that lock on to enemies. The lasers follow them through any surface, and if they are not locked on they rotate to either the left or right.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Inkjet}}|| {{N/A}} || {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Annaki Splattershot Nova|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Rapid Blaster Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Tri-Slosher|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Ballpoint Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Sorella Brella|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Charcoal Decavitator|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |An ink-propelled jetpack that launches players into the air. It is equipped with a cannon for players to shoot explosive ink shots. The jetpack's exhaust leaves an ink trail on the ground following the player's movement. The player can boost themself up slightly by jumping, and can return to swim form as usual.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Ultra Stamp}}|| {{N/A}} || {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Sploosh-o-matic|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Luna Blaster Neo|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|L-3 Nozzlenose D|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Inkbrush Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Mini Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splatana Wiper|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Goo Tuber|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Wellstring V|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A giant hammer that players can continually swing while rushing forward, splatting anyone in its way. The hammer can also be thrown, ending the special early.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Crab Tank}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Splash-o-matic|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splattershot Pro|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|L-3 Nozzlenose|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splat Dualies|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splatana Stamper Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Heavy Edit Splatling Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Dualie Replicas|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A crab-shaped robot that can shoot ink or transform into a ball and roll around. When shooting, players can switch between a rapid-fire mode and cannon-like blasts with a large area of effect.
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Reefslider}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Aerospray MG|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dapple Dualies Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dark Tetra Dualies|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|S-BLAST '92|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Undercover Brella|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dread Wringer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|REEF-LUX 450 Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |An inflatable shark that players ride down a straight path, splatting enemies on contact. The shark creates an explosion of ink when it reaches the end of the path, or the player can choose to cause the explosion prematurely.
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|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Triple Inkstrike}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Neo Splash-o-matic|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Tentatek Splattershot|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Rapid Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Z+F Splat Charger|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Z+F Splatterscope|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Slosher|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Splat Brella|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Douser Dualies FF|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Octo Shot Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Brella Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Order Slosher Replica|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |Players can throw three sticky beacons to launch [[Inkstrike]]-like missiles. Each missile creates a giant vertical tornado of ink shortly after landing. The player is unable to swim or use their main weapon until all three strikes are thrown.
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Tacticooler}}|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|N-ZAP '85|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|H-3 Nozzlenose|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dynamo Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Snipewriter 5H|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Tri-Slosher Nouveau|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Dapple Dualies|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Heavy Edit Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A deployable fridge with four drinks players on the same team can pick up. Each player can take only one drink. The drinks provide temporary buffs related to movement and respawn penalties.
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Super Chump}}<ref group="notes" name="post-launch">Denotes content added post-launch.</ref>|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|N-ZAP '89|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Dualie Squelchers|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Clash Blaster Neo|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Gold Dynamo Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Inkline Tri-Stringer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Bamboozler 14 Mk II|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |Allows players to launch multiple [[Suction Bomb]]-like decoys that explode after a short amount of time. [[Super Jump]] markers are displayed on the decoy's landing points. They can be destroyed by enemy fire or moving terrain before detonation.
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Kraken Royale}}<ref group="notes" name="post-launch"></ref>|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|.96 Gal Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Krak-On Splat Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Heavy Splatling Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Bloblobber Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom E-liter 4K|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom E-liter 4K Scope|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Range Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A rework of the [[Kraken]] from {{S}}, players are transformed into an invincible giant squid or octopus for a few seconds. They can attack by jumping or charging up a powerful dash attack. Players are briefly vulnerable upon activation, and after the special's duration ends.
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Splattercolor Screen}}<ref group="notes" name="post-launch">Denotes content added post-launch.</ref>|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Foil Squeezer|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Undercover Sorella Brella|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Foil Flingza Roller|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|.52 Gal Deco|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Hydra Splatling|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A large, slow-moving ink wall that does not block shots. Instead, any opponents that pass through the affected area are damaged, have their view of the game temporarily rendered in grayscale with darkened ink colors, and hear a fizzing sound.
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{Weapon|S3|Special|Triple Splashdown}}<ref group="notes" name="post-launch">Denotes content added post-launch.</ref>|| {{CellStyle|yes|✓}} || {{N/A}} || {{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Blaster|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Enperry Splat Dualies|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Custom Explosher|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Nautilus 79|icononly|var=2D Current}}{{Weapon|S3|Main|Recycled Brella 24 Mk II|icononly|var=2D Current}}||style="text-align:left;" |A reworked version of the [[Splashdown]] special from {{S2}}. The special works the same way as Splashdown, but the user summons two giant fists made of ink ahead and to either side of them to create two additional Splashdowns. This special can still be used while [[Super Jump|super jumping]], but the two additional fists won't spawn this way.
|-
|}

{{Note list}}
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* [[List of weapons in Splatoon 3|List of weapons in ''Splatoon 3'']]
* [[List of sub weapon sets in Splatoon 3|List of sub weapon sets in ''Splatoon 3'']]
* [[List of special weapon sets in Splatoon 3|List of special weapon sets in ''Splatoon 3'']]
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== Music ==
Some of the music heard during multiplayer battles is made by [[C-Side]], a band that performs music in a rock-esque style. They made a remix of ''[[Splattack!]]'' and ''[[Now or Never!]]'', as well as ''[[Paintscraper]]'', ''[[Headhammer]]'', ''[[Triple Dip]]'', ''[[Clickbait]]'', ''[[Rinse/Repeat]]'', and ''[[Learning Curve]]''.

Several other bands make music that plays during multiplayer battles. Two of them were released with the game: [[Front Roe]], with the songs ''[[Sandy Side Up]]'' and ''[[Sea Me Now]]'', and [[Damp Socks feat. Off the Hook]], with the songs ''[[Tentacle to the Metal]]'' and ''[[Candy-Coated Rocks]]''. [[Yoko & the Gold Bazookas]] was introduced in version {{Ver|S3|4.0.0}} with the songs ''[[Three-Horn Circus]]'', ''[[Ska-BLAM]]'', and ''[[Rockagilly Blues]]''. [[H2Whoa]] was introduced in version {{Ver|S3|5.0.0}} with the songs ''[[Ripstop & Go]]'' and ''[[Aquasonic]]''. [[Chirpy Chips]] was reintroduced in version {{Ver|S3|6.0.0}} with the songs ''[[Slopping Spree]]'' and ''[[No Quarters]]''. [[Riot Act]] was introduced in version {{Ver|S3|7.0.0}} with the songs ''[[Shifting Stars]]'' and ''[[No Plan Survives]]''. [[SashiMori]] was reintroduced in version {{Ver|S3|8.0.0}} with the songs ''[[Amalgamania]]'' and ''[[Seasource]]''.

[[ω-3]] retains all of their songs from ''Splatoon 2''. They also released ''[[Frothy Waters]]'' and ''[[Toxic Anoxic]]'' for {{SRNW}}, and during [[Big Run]]s, their song ''[[Bait & Click]]'' can be heard.

The idol band of ''Splatoon 3'' is called Deep Cut, and, unlike the previous idol groups, Deep Cut's music takes inspiration from many traditional cultures. Most of Deep Cut's music is heard during [[Splatfest]]s, such as ''[[Anarchy Rainbow]]'', ''[[Till Depth Do Us Part]]'', ''[[Fins in the Air]]'', ''[[Big Betrayal]]'', their cover of ''[[Now or Never!]]'', ''[[Ego Overboard]]'', ''[[Still Swimmin']]'', and ''[[Daybreaker Anthem]]''. However, some of their music is also heard during {{RotM}}, specifically ''[[Deep Cut's Theme]]'', ''[[Surprise and Shine]]'', ''[[Hide and Sleek]]'', ''[[Smeared Canvas]]'', and ''[[Calamari Inkantation|Calamari Inkantation 3MIX]]''.

In the [[lobby#Splatoon 3|lobby]], multiplayer battle songs from the previous games sometimes play, as well as several new songs: ''[[Sinkopated]]'', ''[[Drip Feed]]'', ''[[Heliocentri City]]'', ''[[Fuzzy Dazzler]]'', ''[[Blop Bop]]'', ''[[Gilded Cage]]'', ''[[Dressed to Krill]]'', ''[[Slick Moves]]'', ''[[Gillty]]'', ''[[Pour It On]]'', ''[[Pop 'n' Schlock]]'', ''[[Clashing Colors]]'', and ''[[Dorsal Slicer]]''. In version {{Ver|S3|3.0.0}}, a [[jukebox]] was added that allows the player to request almost any song in the game (as well as a select few from previous games) for {{cost|s3|100|cash}}.

==Post-launch updates==
{{Main|List of post-release content in Splatoon 3}}

[[File:S3 Expansion Pass Inkopolis Plaza promo.jpg|thumb|Promotional image for {{S3EP}}]]

Much like the previous ''Splatoon'' games, several free post-launch updates are being released for ''Splatoon 3''. Such updates are liable to prevent [[battle replay]]s from working due to balance adjustments. The game's [[season]] changes roughly every three months, with additional [[weapon]]s, [[stage]]s, a new [[catalog]], as well as other content being added at the start of every season.<ref>{{TWI}} [https://twitter.com/NintendoEurope/status/1557357490039398401 @NintendoEurope on Twitter]</ref>

===Major additions===
*New special weapons: the [[Kraken Royale]] and [[Super Chump]] were added in [[Fresh Season 2023]], and the [[Splattercolor Screen]] and [[Triple Splashdown]] were added in [[Chill Season 2023]].
*New modes:
**[[X Battle]], added in [[Chill Season 2022]]
**[[Big Run]], also added in [[Chill Season 2022]]
**[[Eggstra Work]], added in [[Fresh Season 2023]]
**[[Challenge]], added in [[Sizzle Season 2023]]
*Online [[Tableturf Battle]], added in [[Fresh Season 2023]]

===''Splatoon 3: Expansion Pass''===
The major paid DLC {{S3EP}} was announced during the {{date|2023-02-08}} Nintendo Direct. [[Splatoon 3: Expansion Pass#Wave 1: Inkopolis|Wave 1: Inkopolis]], released on {{date|2023-02-28}}, allows the player to travel to [[Inkopolis Plaza]] from the first {{S}} game; [[Splatoon 3: Expansion Pass#Wave 2: Side Order|Wave 2: ''Side Order'']], released  {{date|2024-02-22}}, includes a new story mode, {{SO}}, which takes place in the [[Spire of Order]], located in a version of [[Inkopolis Square]] from {{S2}}.

==Significance of the number three==
As a reference to the game being the third in the series, the number three is a recurring theme in the game, similarly to eight being a theme in the {{OE}}. For example:

*The protagonist of {{RotM}} is named [[Agent 3 (Splatoon 3)|Agent 3]].
*The default Inkling hairstyle is a braid, a hairstyle made by twisting three strands of hair.
*The most prominent bands in the game, [[C-Side]] and [[Deep Cut]], each have three members.
**Deep Cut's Japanese name, すりみ連合 ("Surimi rengō"), includes puns on "スリー" ("surī", Japanese pronunciation of "three") and "み" ("mi", an alternate reading of the number 3). One of their songs is named ''[[Calamari Inkantation#Calamari Inkantation 3MIX|Calamari Inkantation 3MIX]]''.
***The pattern seen on [[Big Man|Big Man's]] back also seems to resemble multiple "3"s.
**C-Side's name including the letter "C" may reference it being the third letter of the Latin alphabet. One of their songs is named ''[[Triple Dip]]''.
**Additionally, one of [[Yoko & the Gold Bazookas]]' songs is named ''[[Three-Horn Circus]]'', and the [[Now or Never Seven]]'s song is named ''[[Three Wishes]]''.
*[[Splatfest]]s feature three teams, [[Tricolor Turf War]]s, and 333x battles.
*Several [[weapon]]s introduced in the game are named after and associated with the number three, namely the [[Tri-Stringer]] (which fires three shots at once), the [[Trizooka]] (which can fire three times, each shot consisting of three blasts), the [[Triple Inkstrike]] (which has three uses before expiring), and the [[Triple Splashdown]] (which has the player and two fists all splash down, adding up to three explosions). Additionally, the [[Wave Breaker]] fires three shockwaves before it vanishes.
*[[Octoling]]s draw a "3" in the air when trying a [[brush]] at [[Ammo Knights]].
*Multiple new [[gear]] items are named to fit this theme, such as the [[Tri-Shred Tee]].
*The model of the [[Octobot King]] used by [[DJ Octavio]] in Return of the Mammalians is called the Octobot King L3.Gs (a pun on "legs").
*Three pieces of [[treasure]] are collected in Return of the Mammalians.
*[[Mr. Grizz]]'s original name, as revealed in the [[Alterna Log]]s, was "Bear #03", and he is given the title of "The Ursine Anomaly #03" in Return of the Mammalians.
* The time limit in the [[Return of the Mammalians (mission)|final boss battle]] of Return of the Mammalians is 3:33, and the final mission of the mode, [[After Alterna]], has an entry fee of 333 [[Power Egg]]s and first-time clear reward of 3333 Power Eggs.
*In [[Tableturf Battle]], there are 30 [[List of Tableturf Battle rivals in Splatoon 3|CPU opponents]] as of Wave 2 of the {{S3EP}}. Each has three difficulty ranks, and must be defeated in a rank three times to unlock the next rank. Additionally, non-[[jellyfish]] CPU opponents reward sleeves after being defeated 30 times on the third difficulty rank.
*When the player has reached [[Level]] 900, 333,333 more XP is required to reach the maximum level of 999.
* There are 33 different [[Challenge]] modes.
* In [[Salmon Run Next Wave|Salmon Run]], the maximum hazard level is 333%. The most expensive items in the [[Grizzco Industries|Grizzco]] shop are a pair of golden [[banner]]s that cost 333 gold [[fish scale]]s each. There are three different types of [[King Salmonid]], which can be fought together as the [[Triumvirate]], rewarding three times as many fish scales.
* In [[Wandercrust]], several of the [[Battle Points|point]] requirements for locations to be reached fit this theme, with the final location in the first journey requiring 33333p, every even-numbered location in the second journey requiring 33333p except for the final one requiring 333333p, another three locations in the third journey requiring 33333p with the final one again requiring 333333p, and the fifth location in the fourth journey, the eighth location in the fifth journey, and the fifth and seventh locations in the sixth journey each requiring 33333p.
* In {{SO}}, the [[Spire of Order]] has 30 [[floor]]s split into three sections. The [[color chip]]s to set in the [[Palette]]s have three tones per category. The Risky Rewards hack costs 333 [[Prlz]] to enable, and the [[Order Regulator Replica]], [[Controller VM]], and [[Parallel Mask]] each cost 333 Prlz to purchase from [[Cipher]].
* In [[Splatsville]], there are three jumbotrons: one above a café, one above [[the Shoal]], and one by the stairs to [[Naut Couture]].
* In Return of the Mammalians final boss battle, the player color is yellow. This may be referencing that that yellow is the third color of the rainbow.
* In the [[Nintendo Music]] app, the "Top tracks" playlist for ''Splatoon 3'' features 33 tracks.

==Gallery==
{{Gallery}}

==Trivia==
*The signature [[ink]] color set for this game is similar to the Color Lock set in {{S2}} and one of the [[Ranked Battle]] color sets in {{S}}, as well as [[Deep Cut]]'s color scheme.
*The ''[[Inkopolis Memorial Mixtape]]'' ends with the same drum loop used in the {{S}} loading screen followed by the opening of the original version of ''[[Splattack!]]'', similar to the music of the ''Splatoon 3'' announcement trailer.
*In the ''Splatoon 3'' announcement trailer, it could be seen that while [[Inkling]]s and [[Octoling]]s are being shown individually, the Octoling using the [[Hydra Splatling]] had the symmetrical teeth of an Inkling, unlike the asymmetrical teeth Octolings usually have. This was later corrected in some promotional art of Octolings on the ''Splatoon 3'' official Japanese website after the game's release date reveal.
*Upon closer inspection, the "3" in the final version of the game's logo has scratches and cracks visible on its surface.
{{Clear}}

==Names in other languages==
{{Localized name
|color=Splatoon 3
|Chi=斯普拉遁 3
|ChiR=Si1 pou2 laai1 deon6 saam1 (Cantonese)<br>Sī pǔ lā dùn sān (Mandarin)
|ChiM=Splatoon 3
|Jap=スプラトゥーン3
|JapR=Supuratūn 3
|JapM=Splatoon 3
|Kor=스플래툰 3
|KorR=Seupeullaetun 3
|KorM=Splatoon 3
|Ger=Splatoon 3
|GerM=Same as English
|Spa=Splatoon 3
|SpaM=Same as English
}}
<!--

== Notes ==
{{note list}}
-->

==References==
<references />

==External links==
{{External links
|twitch=https://www.twitch.tv/directory/category/splatoon-3
|speedrun=https://www.speedrun.com/Splatoon3
|youtube=no
|strategywiki=Splatoon_3
|squidboards=https://squidboards.com/streams/games/splatoon-3.4/
|wikipedia=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Splatoon_3
|website=https://splatoon.nintendo.com
}}
*{{NES}} Official ''Splatoon 3'' websites ({{flag|us}} [https://splatoon.nintendo.com/ America], {{flag|uk}} [https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Games/Nintendo-Switch/Splatoon-3-1924751.html United Kingdom], {{flag|au}} [https://www.nintendo.com.au/catalogue/splatoon-3 Australia], {{flag|jp}} [https://www.nintendo.co.jp/switch/av5ja/index.html Japan])
*{{YT}} Trailers: [https://youtube.com/watch?v=GUYDXVDLmns Announcement trailer] &bull; [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4ngPsn5d5A Story mode trailer] &bull; [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-Djf0ds_bA Salmon Run trailer] &bull; [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rkz-PjCQjWk Release date trailer]
*{{TWI}} Announcement thread ({{flag|us}} [https://twitter.com/NintendoAmerica/status/1362182738514571268?s=20 America @NintendoAmerica], {{flag|jp}} [https://twitter.com/i/events/1362180038834065408 Japan @SplatoonJP])
*Story mode thread ({{NES}} {{flag|us}} [https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/2021/new-splatoon-3-details-from-the-squid-research-lab/ America], {{flag|uk}} [https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/News/2021/September/Fresh-Splatoon-3-deets-revealed-in-latest-Nintendo-Direct--2045101.html United Kingdom], {{TWI}} {{flag|jp}} [https://twitter.com/i/events/1441182976696414213 Japan @SplatoonJP])
*{{TWI}} Salmon Run thread ({{flag|us}} [https://twitter.com/SplatoonNA/status/1491819769535733794 America @SplatoonNA], {{flag|jp}} [https://twitter.com/i/events/1491548713894178816 Japan @SplatoonJP])
*{{TWI}} Release date thread ({{flag|us}} [https://twitter.com/SplatoonNA/status/1517488411241762816 America @SplatoonNA], {{flag|jp}} [https://twitter.com/SplatoonJP/status/1517488719900536832 Japan @SplatoonJP])

[[Category:Games|*]]
[[Category:Splatoon 3|*]]

[[es:Splatoon 3]]
[[fr:Splatoon 3]]