Splatoon

 Wii U
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1376 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,191 out of 1376
  2. Mixed: 96 out of 1376
  3. Negative: 89 out of 1376
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  1. Xavier_Boixader
    May 29, 2015
    10
    The game it's amazing I think that it's true when nintendo says that this game is the MarioKart of the Shooters.
    Some people is cheating about the lack of content but the game is amazing and the updates will solve this.
  2. ACM3PTS
    May 29, 2015
    9
    Wow. This game surpassed all my expectations. Splatoon needs to stand by your copy of Smash as the two most fun games on the system. Truly a success and an experience worth your money. PD: More maps are coming soon!
  3. Josephsa
    May 29, 2015
    3
    Splatoon represents everything wrong with gaming. It is not a terrible game. A terrible game could be simply not played and forgotten about. Instead Splatoon has some fresh and innovative concepts that are buried and ruined by the incompetency of Nintendo and their inability to keep up with modern times.

    Think of a multiplayer game and think of the features you'd commonly find in one.    Splatoon represents everything wrong with gaming. It is not a terrible game. A terrible game could be simply not played and forgotten about. Instead Splatoon has some fresh and innovative concepts that are buried and ruined by the incompetency of Nintendo and their inability to keep up with modern times.

    Think of a multiplayer game and think of the features you'd commonly find in one. Usually about 10-20 maps, 5-10+ game modes, voice chat, a party system, local competitive play etc. would all be common features. Well, Splatoon has none of those. Launching with a meager 5 maps and 2 game modes, no voice chat, no party system, the only local competitive mode is a 1v1 balloon popping mode, and the inability to switch out your loadout in a match (so rather than feeling like you can adapt to a changing match, you're stuck using the same loadout the whole match), and a 4-5 hour singleplayer campaign, Splatoon is as barebones a package you could find in 2015.

    This is simply unacceptable for a game in 2015; the game has been rushed to market, missing in basic content, and spoilt by the complete incompetence of Nintendo and their inability to adapt to modern times. This game was rushed to market to fill a gap in the game releases and to satiate a months long gaming drought.

    After playing the testfires and a few hours of the game after launch, the game does feel fresh and is a unique take on the genre, but frustration quickly overwhelms due to the repetition of maps (two maps every four hours), lack of basic features isolating one from the other players, and overall lack of fresh content. Singleplayer has been somewhat satisfying, but it lacks the usual Nintendo charm and feels rushed, and just simply is not enough justify a $60 purchase (for some reason this game is reduced retail price in Europe, but not NA).

    Overall, Splatoon is a 3 as it stands now. Perhaps, it could be a 7 or an 8 if it had launched with more maps, modes, voice chat, party chat, local play, a longer campaign, etc. but as it stands now, Splatoon is an incomplete package, and if Nintendo rushes and releases an incomplete package, that is what I will review. I am not of the mindset that we should buy a game simply on the word that there will be future content. I will not lay down $60 for a simply incomplete game and play the waiting game, while the community wanes over time and just simply hope that even some of these features are improved upon. I recommend you give it a rent at most, if nothing more than to see what could have been, but there simply isn't enough unique and fresh content in the game to justify even a $30 purchase, let alone $60.    … Expand
  4. ehvc34
    May 29, 2015
    0
    The lack of voice chat killed the experience for me. This is a game that depends a lot in comunication, you need strategy and coordination to win, but nintendo did it again and excluded one of the most useful tools in a game like this. Good job.
  5. sjmartin79
    Jun 11, 2015
    10
    Splatoon is the most fun I've had playing a video game in years! I've never been a huge fan of shooters or online multiplayer games, but the set-up of Splatoon is perfect! The randomness of the match ups really forces you to be the best you can be each round and work around the strengths of the other team. Even when you think you may be losing, you may take control in the last 30Splatoon is the most fun I've had playing a video game in years! I've never been a huge fan of shooters or online multiplayer games, but the set-up of Splatoon is perfect! The randomness of the match ups really forces you to be the best you can be each round and work around the strengths of the other team. Even when you think you may be losing, you may take control in the last 30 seconds. It's severely addictive, and I can't stop playing!
    The single player campaign is thoroughly enjoyable, and the last boss battle is truly epic. Definitely makes you work for the win.
    If you're on the fence about this game, don't be. Buy it now!    … Expand
  6. WildFire15
    Jun 10, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is another fine example of what Nintendo can do, taking the tiring online shooter genre and giving it a literal fresh coat of paint (or ink, if you will). The simple mechanic of spraying ink to coat the floor is extremely fresh and the game exudes personality from every square inch. However, the lack of content is a bit of a bug bear (especially with additional single playerSplatoon is another fine example of what Nintendo can do, taking the tiring online shooter genre and giving it a literal fresh coat of paint (or ink, if you will). The simple mechanic of spraying ink to coat the floor is extremely fresh and the game exudes personality from every square inch. However, the lack of content is a bit of a bug bear (especially with additional single player challenges gated behind the hard to find and sometimes insanely priced Amiibo), but Nintendo is almost constantly adding new stuff to the game, with 2 new maps and weapons added in the first two weeks alone (with additional modes and a friend lobby, which ideally should have been in at launch, on the way by August)

    Despite the lack of initial content, Splatoon is a killer app level title for the Wii U, once again proving that Nintendo has never exclusively been about Mario and Zelda. Get yourself out there and get this game!    … Expand
  7. ThunderRazor
    Jun 8, 2015
    10
    Splatoon is absolutely fantastic. Probably one of the top 10 games I've ever played. I loved FPS games but they really lost me in the late 90's after titles like Blood II, Descent III, and Daikatana. There have been fun FPS games, but they have done almost nothing new in the last 20 years. Splatoon is one of the freshest shooter games ever. It's not first person, but that actuallySplatoon is absolutely fantastic. Probably one of the top 10 games I've ever played. I loved FPS games but they really lost me in the late 90's after titles like Blood II, Descent III, and Daikatana. There have been fun FPS games, but they have done almost nothing new in the last 20 years. Splatoon is one of the freshest shooter games ever. It's not first person, but that actually really helps it because precises movement and platforming is very important. Moving about in Splatoon feels so good as well. Everything feels good. It's just a solid game.… Expand
  8. XSydburn04
    Jun 6, 2015
    10
    I've been playing action shooters my whole life and nothing compares to Splatoon. I was skeptical in buying and playing this game, but as soon as entered my first match, I was hooked and still hooked as of today. They continue giving us neat new stuffs with no extra cost. Give this game a try if you enjoy shooters. This game is the beast!
  9. BlueSilver86
    Jun 8, 2015
    9
    As a player of multiplayer shooters, I was wondering how good a shooter by Nintendo could be. I love Nintendo but I was a little bit skeptical of shooting paint all over the place. After my brother got the game and told me how great it was, I decided to take the plunge. The verdict? Nintendo nailed it. Though a little lacking on content at the moment, it is incredibly fun. Every week,As a player of multiplayer shooters, I was wondering how good a shooter by Nintendo could be. I love Nintendo but I was a little bit skeptical of shooting paint all over the place. After my brother got the game and told me how great it was, I decided to take the plunge. The verdict? Nintendo nailed it. Though a little lacking on content at the moment, it is incredibly fun. Every week, Nintendo is adding new weapons and maps, so the content issue should resolve itself in the coming months. The online is nearly flawless, with lag or dropping out of games being a rare occurrence. The only negative I have with online is the lack of ability to party up with friends (though that is supposed to be fixed in August I believe). I don't mind the lack of voice chat, though it would be nice. Overall, I love the game and everyone should give this game a spin. I don't believe you'll regret it.… Expand
  10. Itzkannious
    May 31, 2015
    9
    This game really rocks the mechanics, has a fun, enjoyable single player campaign, and has the ability to keep me saying 'one more match... One more match...' For many hours. I'm excited to see more as the game goes on and will be continuing to play this incredibly tight game for many months.
  11. fusion_13
    Jun 2, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is such an immensely fun and vibrant game. Nintendo somehow innovates the shooting genre by taking it to a whole new level of pure fun. Splatoon's mechanics and design is where it shines, it also has a surprising amount of strategy involved. The lack of voice chat doesn't really bother me, it's very minor. The only real negative is the lack of modes and content, it could have usedSplatoon is such an immensely fun and vibrant game. Nintendo somehow innovates the shooting genre by taking it to a whole new level of pure fun. Splatoon's mechanics and design is where it shines, it also has a surprising amount of strategy involved. The lack of voice chat doesn't really bother me, it's very minor. The only real negative is the lack of modes and content, it could have used some more 2 player local action too. Although Nintendo has confirmed that free DLC will be coming out on a regular basis. The campaign is very enjoyable and has some very nice platforming elements but is a little on the short side. Overall splatoon is a fantastic game that adds to the Wii U's never ending amount of amazing exclusives.… Expand
  12. buffalopete
    Jun 3, 2015
    10
    This game is excellent. I'm really pleased with how much I am enjoying the process of leveling up and getting new gear. Having random abilities applied to gear adds a bit of incentive to try new things.
  13. foxmccloud
    May 31, 2015
    9
    Nintendo's take on the 3rd-person shooter really impressed me. I remember seeing this game at E3 and was one of my most anticipated games. Its all about claiming territory and the game is really fun in general. But the lack of voice chat was a let down and it was disappointing that I couldn't chat with my friends. The single player mode is really fun too, but I felt it was "too short".Nintendo's take on the 3rd-person shooter really impressed me. I remember seeing this game at E3 and was one of my most anticipated games. Its all about claiming territory and the game is really fun in general. But the lack of voice chat was a let down and it was disappointing that I couldn't chat with my friends. The single player mode is really fun too, but I felt it was "too short". There is also limited content and there are not many things to do. Nintendo says that they will bring more content but for now, all we have is turf war, single-player campaign, and battle dojo. I've never had this much fun with a Nintendo game and it kept me playing for hours.… Expand
  14. KoalaOnKrack
    Jun 3, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is a really fun game with so much further potential. Strong campaign in the game but the multiplayer is the strongest feature. I would have loved to have seen further game modes and maps at launch but understandably being a completely new concept, they aren't all there. Loving every bit I've played, and I'm, left wanting more and more.
  15. Daruckard
    Jun 3, 2015
    10
    para mi es uno de los mejores de wii u los envidiosos no le ponen la nota maxima deberia tener un 9.5 por lo menos se lo merece, porque es un juego entretenido para toda la familia
  16. iandizion713
    Jun 6, 2015
    9
    Insanely addicting game, Splatoon is one of those games thats hard to put down. Dual screens on local play, single player mode, and the online part are a blast, i spent first couple days play the 2 player Battle Dojo, then spent few days playing single player story mode. Now im getting lost in the online mode, this mode is the most addicting of all. All in all Splatoon is one of the bestInsanely addicting game, Splatoon is one of those games thats hard to put down. Dual screens on local play, single player mode, and the online part are a blast, i spent first couple days play the 2 player Battle Dojo, then spent few days playing single player story mode. Now im getting lost in the online mode, this mode is the most addicting of all. All in all Splatoon is one of the best games available for Wii U.… Expand
  17. CakeBakerjc
    Jun 7, 2015
    10
    This game is amazing. It proves that Nintendo is the only gaming company that can bring innovation to the shooter genre. It has a spectacular game design, not to mention its fun single player campaign. I think that this game will turn out to be one of Nintendo's biggest hits. Every one that's complaining about the lack of voice chat can take a hike if you ask me. If your wondering whatThis game is amazing. It proves that Nintendo is the only gaming company that can bring innovation to the shooter genre. It has a spectacular game design, not to mention its fun single player campaign. I think that this game will turn out to be one of Nintendo's biggest hits. Every one that's complaining about the lack of voice chat can take a hike if you ask me. If your wondering what game you should add to your gaming library, this is the one. It would be a shame if anyone missed the chance to play this game.… Expand
  18. Arifureta
    Jun 8, 2015
    10
    This game is awesome, i dont like FPS and even worse... the 3rdPS but this game makes me feel so good to playing it, the RPGs elements, the different kind of weapons, tha strategy that you can generate in any moment, the hide and seek game, and even Ranked games, this game its so complete, I totally loved it.
  19. zorlda
    Jun 9, 2015
    10
    This game is so amazing. It has a fun and enjoyable story mode, an addictive multiplayer, and many unlockables to keep you playing for a while. This game is definitely one of my favourites of the year. I highly recommend you buy it, it is a must-have on the wii u.
  20. SD55
    Jun 10, 2015
    8
    Great new IP :D

    Its just sooo satisfiying to Ink the Whole Map :D...Everything is smooth nice ArtDesign great Maps and awesome Weapons. But the Content is just too small It definately needs more Maps and new Mods .... Also no Voice Chat makes it difficult to make a nice Strategy I dont understand why Nintendo still refuses to add a Private Group Chat?! Luckily Nintendo    Great new IP :D

    Its just sooo satisfiying to Ink the Whole Map :D...Everything is smooth
    nice ArtDesign great Maps and awesome Weapons.

    But the Content is just too small
    It definately needs more Maps and new Mods ....

    Also no Voice Chat makes it difficult to make a nice Strategy
    I dont understand why Nintendo still refuses to add a Private Group Chat?!

    Luckily Nintendo brought since Launch new Maps and new Weapons..
    If the Keep up with the Updates that game will be Awesome

    In this Moment only a 8/10    … Expand
  21. doomrider7
    Jun 5, 2015
    10
    Fantastic. Just utterly FANTASTIC! Nintendo hit it out of the ballpark with it's new IP in terms of entertainment. I can't really add anything new that hasn't already been said other than to ignore the bad reviews complaining about lack of maps, weapons, or any other nonsense since if you make it past the TUTORIAL you can find out that MAPS ROTATE EVERY 4 HOURS and that there are more thanFantastic. Just utterly FANTASTIC! Nintendo hit it out of the ballpark with it's new IP in terms of entertainment. I can't really add anything new that hasn't already been said other than to ignore the bad reviews complaining about lack of maps, weapons, or any other nonsense since if you make it past the TUTORIAL you can find out that MAPS ROTATE EVERY 4 HOURS and that there are more than two maps in the game with many more in the way as free downloads from Nintendo along with more weapons and gear. Ditto for the games campaign which can be found by walking to the Manhole next to the ramp leading to the Lobby and friend battles are as simple as just sending them a friend request from the Wii U's main menu and just selecting the Battle With Friends option at the lobby when they're online. It's clear that many of the negative reviews either don't really have the game or turned it off 5 minutes in since all of this is explained in game shortly after the tutorial level.… Expand
  22. PreciseMotion
    Jun 13, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is very exciting, original, and tons of fun to play. However, it isn't perfect in design choices. Just so you get a taste of my gaming experience, I'm not a Nintendo fanboy, and I've had extensive experience with other multiplayer shooters such as competitively playing Gears of War and Halo, and having spent a fair amount of time with other shooters as well. That being said,Splatoon is very exciting, original, and tons of fun to play. However, it isn't perfect in design choices. Just so you get a taste of my gaming experience, I'm not a Nintendo fanboy, and I've had extensive experience with other multiplayer shooters such as competitively playing Gears of War and Halo, and having spent a fair amount of time with other shooters as well. That being said, Splatoon is a huge breath of fresh air and don't let anyone else tell you otherwise and stop you from trying this game. If you're reading this, you most likely know the way the game plays and all those details so I won't bother going into that. Just know the game feels great and there's tons of weapon variety and such to change the way you play. Now let's address some flaws. Some say this game lacks content. I have been one of these people but now that I've seen Nintendo's actual approach I no longer believe so. Let me just start by saying I'm not particularly a fan of the approach they took at launch and these past 2 weeks, but there is sufficient content now at the moment of typing. So the thing is, Nintendo had 9 maps, 4 (I think) other weapons, and a 3rd mode finished at the time of launch, they just decided they'd rather release it over time. In the last 2 weeks we've gotten 2 of the 4 left out maps, and 3 of the 4 left out weapons already. I don't like this approach but there really isn't a lack of content like others make it out to be. Overall the game will have 14 maps, 4 unique modes I believe, which is not lackluster AT ALL. Also you can only play 2 maps for each game mode in every 4 hour interval. It was fine at first, but now that we have 7 maps its a bit annoying, especially when you want to play a specific mode and you have a 50% chance to play that exact same map again. Another issue is not being able to change loadouts while waiting. The newscasts don't really bother me. Overall though the community for this game is awesome in the sense of the posts, graffitti, and the constant updates of content, and the splatfests to get everyone involved. Don't listen to others. This is one of the most original and exciting games I've played in years. Please do give it a shot.… Expand
  23. remyzerofan
    Jun 5, 2015
    10
    I'm not big into online multiplayer games, but I've sunk many hours into Splatoon since it was released last week. It's a lot of fun. Just don't expect local multiplayer because it doesn't really have that (yes, there's a 1 vs. 1 mode, but it's not very much fun).
  24. rafaaguilera
    Jun 24, 2015
    9
    Finally an online shooter not war themed and that doesn't look like Call of Duty or Battlefield. That's already praiseworthy! Instead of soldiers, we have squid-like human characters and they shoot ink, not bullets. However, this game is not unique by how it looks, but the gameplay is very different from the offerings in the genre. The main online mode called ''Turf War'', put two teams ofFinally an online shooter not war themed and that doesn't look like Call of Duty or Battlefield. That's already praiseworthy! Instead of soldiers, we have squid-like human characters and they shoot ink, not bullets. However, this game is not unique by how it looks, but the gameplay is very different from the offerings in the genre. The main online mode called ''Turf War'', put two teams of four people to battle themselves and the winner will be not the one that kills the most, but the one that paint the scenario the most! but even not counting points, killing is very important to bring an opponent back to the spawn point to retard their work, and to help to do that, there's a lot of ''Mario Kart'' like items such as a rocket that hit the ground exploding ink or a invincible giant squids that kills by just touching the opponent. Those items vary according to the weapon the player choose.
    So it's a fun, original and very simple concept, that's easy to pick but involves some strategy to succeed. I had and i'm still having a blast playing the online matches, but i can't help noticing how limited are the online options. Why i can't create tournaments like Mario Kart 8 or choose the team i want to join? Fix it Nintendo! Otherwise Splatoon multi-player would flawless.

    To conclude, even been a online multi-player focused game, Splatoon also has an amazing (and short) single-player campaign, that use the mechanics from the multi-player but in a different style, a mix of platforming/shooter, with lot of cool levels, ideas and bosses.

    Go get Splatoon! It's simple, fresh and fun. Call of Duty fans, don't get intimidated by the cutesy of the squids, give it a chance.    … Expand
  25. lolobeatboxjams
    Jun 8, 2015
    9
    Initial Impressions:

    Overall: The game has a great concept and an awesome art style. Gameplay: It's y-axis seems to have a faster scroll rate than the x-axis, which makes it difficult for quick shooting and makes sniping almost impossible. For everything else though it seems to work fine. The weapons feel good most of the time, but some special attacks are much better than others;    Initial Impressions:

    Overall: The game has a great concept and an awesome art style.

    Gameplay: It's y-axis seems to have a faster scroll rate than the x-axis, which makes it difficult for quick shooting and makes sniping almost impossible. For everything else though it seems to work fine. The weapons feel good most of the time, but some special attacks are much better than others; see ink strike.

    Content: Only 2 maps at a time in a single rotation, this is a very Nintendo decision. Maybe Nintendo was afraid of players not learning the maps thus they came to make players do the same ones over and over again? I haven't gotten though the entire 1-player campaign but so far it seems great.

    Other: The menus in this game are great, which are located on the gamepad. The game has a major hub world you can walk though (kind of like the tower in destiny), or you can simply select who you need to interact from the gamepad. This feature is great, I actually don't know how to find some of the vendors due to only selecting them though my gamepad.

    Some Bad: No voice chat sucks, but my and some of my online friends are used to it sadly (with MK8 and Sm4ash). Not being about to change out loadouts between battles is also annoying. I've seen suggestions about having 3 or so loadouts mid battle, which would totally suffice.    … Expand
  26. timshundo
    Jun 6, 2015
    10
    Rarely do I drop $60 on something I'm unsure about but as it turns out I can't put the fricken game down. The quality of the launch content makes the slow rollout of the rest unnoticeable.
  27. Dalfamurni
    Jun 2, 2015
    10
    Splatoon is a much needed original title among shooters. The territory grab gameplay allows for new players to focus on terrain grabbing, with veteran players focusing on PVP. But unlike territory or capture the flag game types in other shooters, Splatoon's land grabbing actually helps your team by allowing the team to use their squid form to greater effect with each new foot of inkedSplatoon is a much needed original title among shooters. The territory grab gameplay allows for new players to focus on terrain grabbing, with veteran players focusing on PVP. But unlike territory or capture the flag game types in other shooters, Splatoon's land grabbing actually helps your team by allowing the team to use their squid form to greater effect with each new foot of inked land.
    _>>_
    The online mode is non-stop fun, with more unique weapons than Halo, CoD, and Battlefield combined. The reason for this being that every weapon is not only optimized for killing, but also for painting the landscape. There is nothing like the roller in any other shooter, and every other weapon has a unique twist as well.
    _>>_
    Though there are few levels at launch, they are unique, especially when considering the controls of the game. Swimming up walls as a squid in ink is something that requires consideration. Added to that being a requirement for ink to be present in the first place, and the few levels suddenly feel like many levels. Being able to super jump to any ally also serves to differentiate this title from ALL OTHER shooters.
    _>>_
    The controls in this game can either be the standard dual analog that every shooter uses, or it can utilize motion controls for even greater precision. I started off just giving the motion controls a try, but quickly found that they provided a precision only otherwise found in PC mouse+keyboard shooters. Now I play with motion controls at all times.
    _>>_
    The story mode feels like it is a modern version of classic single player games from famous games of yesteryear. I found myself comparing the world hopping to Super Mario 64, and Banjo Kazooie. The worlds are also similar to Super Mario 64 in that they consist of floating platforms in a void, and falling off means re-spawning at the last checkpoint. I loved it for its more lighthearted gameplay compared to the monotone shaded and "gritty", or "hard core" shooters that are currently the hated norm. My only complaint is that you are limited to one weapon type, which is essentially a sub machine gun that shoots paint.
    _>>_
    Thanks for Reading.    … Expand
  28. watusi6969
    Jun 3, 2015
    9
    Stay Fresh!

    Yes, this game is a breath of FRESH air for shooting game fans. Everyone can enjoy this game, both kids and adults not just the average 13+ yrs old shooting fans. The whole family can enjoy this fresh IP that Nintendo has provided us. My nephew and I play this for hours. He loves playing online without any foul mouthed 13 yrs old kids. PROS: Fresh idea from Nintendo    Stay Fresh!

    Yes, this game is a breath of FRESH air for shooting game fans. Everyone can enjoy this game, both kids and adults not just the average 13+ yrs old shooting fans. The whole family can enjoy this fresh IP that Nintendo has provided us. My nephew and I play this for hours. He loves playing online without any foul mouthed 13 yrs old kids.

    PROS:
    Fresh idea from Nintendo
    Adults and kids friendly
    Vibrant and vivid colors
    Fun, unique, and creative campaign mode (I had fun beating the Final boss)
    Online play is very addicting
    Different varieties of weapons and armors
    Armors and weapons are simple yet cool looking
    Miiverse meme posts are fun and hilarious
    Soundtracks are memorable.
    Ranked online match
    Memorable and unique characters specially the NPC's

    Cons:
    Lack of online maps
    Lack of online chat
    Lack of online party
    Only 2 player battle offline mode. 4vs4 local play with family with friends will be fun, please implement this Nintendo

    Campaign was way too short but was fun
    You can't change weapons while waiting for another match. You have to go back to the lobby menu in order to change weapon.    … Expand
  29. Bjolley35
    Jun 5, 2015
    9
    Fun, just an absolute blast, One of the best online games I've ever played. More fun and balanced than any online shooter I have ever played. No camping, no spawn deaths, turf warfare draws up literal lines of battle on the field. The style of play and design of the game is fast and an absolute blast. It is simply brilliant.
  30. AugustoSisti
    Jun 3, 2015
    9
    That its icredible, have some wrong things but still incredible. with the promisse splatoon will be the mario kart 8 of shooters game Nintendo made a incredible game. With some complications in the menu but nothing that distroy you game time. a new type of game, Nintendo made a new game in a era of reaster and remake of the olds series. That is what the people wants, not just gore andThat its icredible, have some wrong things but still incredible. with the promisse splatoon will be the mario kart 8 of shooters game Nintendo made a incredible game. With some complications in the menu but nothing that distroy you game time. a new type of game, Nintendo made a new game in a era of reaster and remake of the olds series. That is what the people wants, not just gore and sex, its fun and when you see you already played it by 5 hours. Its incredible!!… Expand
  31. IsmaDLR
    May 31, 2015
    9
    One thing that needs to be said is that the online in this game is not finished, but the things that are finished... Simply perfect. And now that the campaigns aren't the real deal anymore, Splatoon gave me a really good one, with a final boss fight that I simply loved.

    When it comes to online multiplayer, it's incredibly fun and addicting even with the low amount of online content.    One thing that needs to be said is that the online in this game is not finished, but the things that are finished... Simply perfect. And now that the campaigns aren't the real deal anymore, Splatoon gave me a really good one, with a final boss fight that I simply loved.

    When it comes to online multiplayer, it's incredibly fun and addicting even with the low amount of online content. And I really loved that the game doesn't have in-game voice chat, because in online battles that short (3 minutes), the voice chat is absolutely unnecessary, distracting and because the fact you only need to make a strategy for your equipment makes the strategy with the other players useless. If you play online, just sit back and ink all the place, forget about dumb strategies that are more focused on killing the other players than covering the most of the stage with ink. 3 minutes, 4 vs 4 players, tiny stages, only equipment strategy, and shoot, shoot, reload, shoot, shoot, repeat. If you feel that the Mario Kart 8 online races aren't chaotic enough, play Splatoon and you will know what chaos is.    … Expand
  32. ilar17
    Jun 6, 2015
    10
    One of the most unique, colorful and fun games on the Wii U hands down, really addictive with more free content coming soon. This is a "must have" game.
  33. ricklongo
    Jul 6, 2015
    9
    I have something to confess: I'm not big on online multiplayer. The lack of face-to-face interaction generally means I simply don't have as much fun as when I gather friends on my living room to play, for example, extended sessions of Super Smash Bros. What I am big on, however, is great gameplay, and in that regard Splatoon made me a believer. Thirty-five hours in, I'm utterly enthralledI have something to confess: I'm not big on online multiplayer. The lack of face-to-face interaction generally means I simply don't have as much fun as when I gather friends on my living room to play, for example, extended sessions of Super Smash Bros. What I am big on, however, is great gameplay, and in that regard Splatoon made me a believer. Thirty-five hours in, I'm utterly enthralled by its endless stream of addictive three-minute ink-shooting matches, and I'm convinced this new franchise is going to be a massive player in the Nintendo IP roster going forward.

    As you're probably aware, Splatoon is a third person shooter with a focus on online multiplayer matches. When it comes to shooters, however, I don't think there's ever been anything that plays quite like it. You play as inklings, squid-human hybrids that shoot ink instead of bullets, and while you can (and certainly should) shoot opposing players, the focus is on covering the battlefield with ink. It's a genius approach for a couple of reasons: first, because it positions the shooter genre into Nintendo's family-friendly approach in a convincing and utterly addictive way. Secondly, the "shoot the environment" mechanic is a great way to make novice players feel useful even in a highly competitive environment, as it's more about clever strategy than it is about precise aiming.

    Splatoon was launched with only one online multiplayer mode (called "Turf Wars"), but has since gotten several free updates. As I write this, there are two other online modes available, with a few more planned for the next months. At this point, we have already experienced a "Splatfest": an online event that makes players pick sides and battle it out for their team on a big day-long stravaganza. All of this makes the game feel like a living, breathing thing, rewarding early adopters and keeping the hype ball rolling well beyond release. It's a smart strategy that has been compelling me to keep playing.

    Of course, the game also has an offline side: it consists of around thirty levels of inkling war against their hated octoling enemies. The level design is simply astonishing, throwing loads of clever twists on the ink-shooting formula as stages go on. There's an overworld to explore and find new stages, but most of those stages are very linear; some, however, are more open affairs, in which your character has to fight octolings in larger environments much like the online multiplayer modes. It's a mixture that certainly works, even if I'd have preferred more of the latter than the former.

    The single-player mode has another crowning jewel, though: the boss fights. They are five overall, and they're all so entertaining that I got genuinely surprised. When it came to the final boss battle, my expectations were through the roof... yet the game somehow managed to surpass them entirely. I won't spoil anything here, but suffice it to say that it's a lenghty, challenging, and massively fun war against what's probably my favorite character in the entire game. It's probably a bit early to say, but I'm guessing I'll forever look back to it as one of my favorite boss fights of all time.

    There have been criticism thrown at some of the game's quirks, such as the lack of online voice chat (which would be useful to some, even if it's not really my thing) or the poor local multiplayer options (and I fully believe a Goldeneye 007-like four-player split-screen mode could be absolutely fantastic). Taken for what it is, however, Splatoon is nothing short of a rousing success for Nintendo. It's innovative, it's addictive, it's got great graphics and music, and this is why it's probably one of the games people will always bring up in the future whenever talking about the Wii U. If you're on the fence, absolutely give it a shot.

    Rating: 9.0    … Expand
  34. netherclaws
    Jun 12, 2015
    9
    It's a great shooter with fun mechanics that feels intuitive and fresh! I really think this game deserves a 10, but some issues with the online is making me give it a 9 - disconnects issues. Hopefully it'll change with time! Overall, this game is really fun and that's what matters in the end!
  35. LUFCXI
    Jun 2, 2015
    9
    Exceeded my expectations. Haven't stopped playing it all weekend. Have been playing online and with my 8 year old and we both adore it. The vibrant colours, the sound of the paint splodging on walls and floors is brilliant. Thank you Nintendo for continuously sticking to your guns and making family fun games. Voice communication between friends only is a must as well as an alternative 2Exceeded my expectations. Haven't stopped playing it all weekend. Have been playing online and with my 8 year old and we both adore it. The vibrant colours, the sound of the paint splodging on walls and floors is brilliant. Thank you Nintendo for continuously sticking to your guns and making family fun games. Voice communication between friends only is a must as well as an alternative 2 player battle mode.… Expand
  36. mory3s2m
    May 31, 2015
    8
    If this game was $40, I would give it a solid 10. But until they add some free DLC content, I do believe it is over priced. However, seeing Nintendo go crazy with advertising for this game is nice and it indicate that Nintendo wants to makes something amazing out of this for DECADES to come. I have played shooters since Doom, and this is one of the most innovative entries since Medal ofIf this game was $40, I would give it a solid 10. But until they add some free DLC content, I do believe it is over priced. However, seeing Nintendo go crazy with advertising for this game is nice and it indicate that Nintendo wants to makes something amazing out of this for DECADES to come. I have played shooters since Doom, and this is one of the most innovative entries since Medal of Honor and Titanfall. I hated it for the first hour and now I love it. Give the game a chance ;).… Expand
  37. DoctorMonkey
    Jun 3, 2015
    9
    Don't you wish Nintendo would make a new hit franchise?
    Don't you wish shooters could get away from realistic warfare and futuristic SciFI?
    Do you like making messes you don't have to clean up, but you're too desensitized to blood, gore, and shatter simulations? Enter Splatoon, a truly unique experience I never knew I wanted. The object is simple; cover the level with more ink than    Don't you wish Nintendo would make a new hit franchise?
    Don't you wish shooters could get away from realistic warfare and futuristic SciFI?
    Do you like making messes you don't have to clean up, but you're too desensitized to blood, gore, and shatter simulations?

    Enter Splatoon, a truly unique experience I never knew I wanted. The object is simple; cover the level with more ink than you're opponent. I had fun from the beginning, simply running around shooting ink everywhere, and had even more fun as I developed more complex strategies on an hourly basis. The Seapunk aesthetic added a wave of 90's nostalgia (the terms "fresh" and "booyah" are prominent), and the animation and fluid simulation is... well, they're just REALLY fun to watch.

    Now the lack of content is a HUGE elephant in the room: only two multiplayer modes, and two levels to be exact. But Nintendo's promised free content over the next few months, and I'm definitely having enough fun with those two levels and two modes to keep me busy until then.    … Expand
  38. InfiniteYT
    Jun 8, 2015
    9
    Splatoon takes a overdone genre and makes it feel fresh. With new ways to combat like the squid form which allows for swift movement around the map or hiding in your on ink makes every moment exciting and intense. The 4 minute timer in turf war makes the action fast pace and the ability to launch to team members makes sure that your never mindlessly swimming around. Platoons concept isSplatoon takes a overdone genre and makes it feel fresh. With new ways to combat like the squid form which allows for swift movement around the map or hiding in your on ink makes every moment exciting and intense. The 4 minute timer in turf war makes the action fast pace and the ability to launch to team members makes sure that your never mindlessly swimming around. Platoons concept is that you have to cover the ground with more ink then your opponent. The idea is unique and fun. The multiple weapons along with the customizable gear with stats allows for the perfect setup for your play style. The single player, even though it's fairly short, is very fun as each stage throughs something new that works with the games mechanics very well. The coop mode where your playing with a friend is pretty boring and would of been better if it was more like turf wars. When you reach level 10 you unlock ranked battles which is a different gamemode called splat zones which is a lot like King of the hill but instead of standing on the site you have to paint it an and in some maps there are 2 zones. Some weapons have specials that allow to change the course of a battle like the ink strike or the ink zooka. The three types of weapons: the splatter gun, the roller, and the charger allow for a different type of play style everytime. In multiplayer there is no voice chat which isn't a big deal but it would be cool to develop starts with your team or call for backup on a certain area of the map. Overall Nintendo's first new IP in years is great and with the three amigo's that add more content the fun keeps on coming. It may be the best game on the wii U and it deserves the 9/10 rating.… Expand
  39. subglitch
    Jun 6, 2015
    9
    It's not going to be a system seller but for Wii U owners like myself that are constantly trying to justify buying a Wii U splatoon is a great game, it wouldn't work as well on any other system.
  40. dharma
    Jul 19, 2015
    9
    Nintendo newest franchise in a long time, gives the Third person shooter genre a family friendly twist. It plays incredibly and surprisingly, gives the best in the market a run for their money. But where is the content? It seems quite bare bone and ripe for multiple DLC (including the 'compulsory 3 pack' Amiboo that you need to get to obtain the best weapon). Too bad as other than that, itNintendo newest franchise in a long time, gives the Third person shooter genre a family friendly twist. It plays incredibly and surprisingly, gives the best in the market a run for their money. But where is the content? It seems quite bare bone and ripe for multiple DLC (including the 'compulsory 3 pack' Amiboo that you need to get to obtain the best weapon). Too bad as other than that, it has great design and an addicting experience.… Expand
  41. heROFtime92
    Jun 25, 2015
    10
    Splatoon is just the new fresh awesomely fun IP Wii U was lacking, while having all the Nintendo classic experience, splatoon is a new take on both FPS and TPS, sounds weird, but it works perfectly! This is the game that made me feel like a kid again! I just can't stop playing it.

    New modes, scenarios and weapons are being added freely every week, and the amiibo integration pretty much    Splatoon is just the new fresh awesomely fun IP Wii U was lacking, while having all the Nintendo classic experience, splatoon is a new take on both FPS and TPS, sounds weird, but it works perfectly! This is the game that made me feel like a kid again! I just can't stop playing it.

    New modes, scenarios and weapons are being added freely every week, and the amiibo integration pretty much brings new challenges into the story mode.

    While on-line mode is the major point of the game, be sure to play story mode to know how to get around and unlock some cool rewards, on-line chat could have been useful but it is not necessary at all.    … Expand
  42. Kickapoww
    Jun 15, 2015
    10
    This game has it all. It's fun, well balanced, and keeps me coming back for more. I've finished all but the amiibo challenges and I loved all of it. The game's style is so fresh. And the game mechanics are new and exciting. I am also surprised that the team of devs that makes Animal Crossing made this game. I love AC, and I notice their touch in this game's design. It's high class.
  43. NandoLopez
    Jun 11, 2015
    10
    Instantly accessible, and infinitely complex. There are nuances that show themselves after only a tiny bit of play time. The game forces you to figure out your own play style before you are allowed to customize your stats. The game allows players to customize their stats by purchasing in-game clothing items and weapons but you must achieve level 4 prior to being allowed to shop. This canInstantly accessible, and infinitely complex. There are nuances that show themselves after only a tiny bit of play time. The game forces you to figure out your own play style before you are allowed to customize your stats. The game allows players to customize their stats by purchasing in-game clothing items and weapons but you must achieve level 4 prior to being allowed to shop. This can be done rather quickly in online battles, it only took me 30 minutes to get there. By that time I knew what my play style was, I knew what weapons I would want and what stats I wanted to boost. I purchased a hat, a pair of shoes, and a shirt that added to my play style. I chose the type of weapon that suited me well. The idea that a player has to wait until level 4 before being able to do these things was a bit off-putting at first but after achieving that goal it all made sense. It is a brilliant tactic that illustrates the genius behind Nintendo. They understand gaming like no other company. This attention to detail is what makes them great. My parting bit of advice is that you should get this game, you should get a Wii U. The greatest games of this generation are on the Nintendo console. And there are so many more coming.… Expand
  44. SidTheEpic
    Jul 21, 2015
    9
    This game is great, the single player campaign is great, online is MOSTLY great, I don't know about amiibo functionality though.
    The game concept is *fresh*(haha, see what I did there?), it's innovative, it's not JUST another shooter. I will list a few problems with the game:
    - Limited content: Splatoon started out as only 1.8 Gigs, but free DLC (Not really DLC, you don't have to    This game is great, the single player campaign is great, online is MOSTLY great, I don't know about amiibo functionality though.
    The game concept is *fresh*(haha, see what I did there?), it's innovative, it's not JUST another shooter. I will list a few problems with the game:
    - Limited content: Splatoon started out as only 1.8 Gigs, but free DLC (Not really DLC, you don't have to download anything) comes almost regularly.
    - Online Communication Failures: You're in a Turf War/Ranked Battle, only to find out one of your teammates got disconnected, this happens a lot.
    - Splatfest: DEAR GOD, SPLATFEST. The concept is great: Two teams will fight for 24 hours, to get their team the most points possible. Here's the issue: Popularity of one team counts towards total points. During the second splatfest, our team would've won 52% to 48% if it hadn't been for Popularity of the other team (which was 63% to 37%). Also, the matchmaking isn't really good for splatfest. Which brings me to my next point:
    - Matchmaking: Does this even exist? The teams are chosen at random, yes, at random. 4 Rollers VS 4 Ranged can very well happen, You can be stuck with beginner while the other team is at max level, and due to connection issues, YOU CAN GET OUTNUMBERED BY THE OPPOSING TEAM (max 4 on both teams).

    Besides that... Splatoon is an amazing, addicting game! If you're not that good at 3rd person shooters, there's still an option for you: The Roller. The Max Level is 20, which may be low, but it takes a good while to get there. The music in this game is amazing, there's nothing really quite like it. The game's single player is FANTASTIC. I recommend playing it, especially if you're new to 3rd person shooters. It's not easy, but not too difficult.

    I would give this game an 8.5, but Metacritic doesn't let me.    … Expand
  45. FIL1994
    Jun 12, 2015
    9
    This game is very fun. There are lots of weapons and Nintendo keeps adding more. There are only a few maps right now, but they are all very well designed. The single player is also fun, though it is short.
  46. snow_
    Jun 17, 2015
    10
    This game is great as it has a great and fun single player mode and normal online battles for people that just want to have fun. The ranked battle is for people that are getting better at the game and want to have fun in the process. With lots of replay value, this is a must have for the Wii U system.
  47. BaronMonaco
    Aug 24, 2016
    8
    At last a new licence by Nintendo for the Wii U and a TPS with a focus on competitive multiplayer, that's not what we expect from them so did they succeed in this new genre ?

    First technically the game looks good on Wii U, the colourful graphics and cute design (something Nintendo is a master in doing) please the eyes and there's no bug offline or online. The Wii U pad is pretty useless    At last a new licence by Nintendo for the Wii U and a TPS with a focus on competitive multiplayer, that's not what we expect from them so did they succeed in this new genre ?

    First technically the game looks good on Wii U, the colourful graphics and cute design (something Nintendo is a master in doing) please the eyes and there's no bug offline or online. The Wii U pad is pretty useless (you can aim with the motion control but you'll get your ass kicked by those playing with simple joysticks), the only other thing that uses the gamepad is your map on the screen.

    Concerning the gameplay it's really fun, you'll have to use your gun (there's not a lot of them but there is a lot of difference between them) to cover the walls in painting (and of course kill your enemies), simple but extremely fun. Your movements are enhanced when you go into a "squid form" when you're walking on painting of your color, your skills in the squid form is where you'll make the difference and that's also what makes Splatoon different from other TPS.

    Concerning the story, there's a campaign of approximately 8 hours in the game with a classic basic story from Nintendo (they are bad, go save us) the campaign is a great way to be prepared to join the multiplayer and it offers some nice boss fights and platforming, not the main argument of the game but a worthy addition. For the global length of the game that depends of how much you'll get hooked to the multiplayer, but to reach the max level you'll need at least 20 hours so it's okay.

    In conclusion Splatoon is a very fun TPS with a gameplay easy to play, but hard to master. There could be more online content (maps and weapons) and there's room to improve the solo experience but globally no major flaws, except of course the limits of the hardware, with a gamepad that even Nintendo don't know to use. Advisable to every Wii U owner looking for a nice competitive multiplayer experience.    … Expand
  48. RhaZo
    Jun 3, 2015
    9
    Jogo excelente e que deve ser experimentado por todos os amantes da Nintendo e quem curte TPSs também. Trás a mesa uma nova dinâmica de jogo e várias mecânicas inovadores que diferem muito do padrão imposto pelo competitivo mercado de shooters.

    Recomendadíssimo.
  49. Beastprogamer
    Oct 30, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is a fantastic Third Person shooter, and is a must own if you have a Wii U! The graphics are amazing. Online Multiplayer is fun but can be a little laggy. The best part is that this is Tokyo, Japan (IMO) which is awesome. The controls are good. The Story Mode (or Campaign) is outstanding especially the Bosses. The Main Plaza is absolutely gorgeous, well designed, highly resemblesSplatoon is a fantastic Third Person shooter, and is a must own if you have a Wii U! The graphics are amazing. Online Multiplayer is fun but can be a little laggy. The best part is that this is Tokyo, Japan (IMO) which is awesome. The controls are good. The Story Mode (or Campaign) is outstanding especially the Bosses. The Main Plaza is absolutely gorgeous, well designed, highly resembles Tokyo, Japan, and many more. The weapons are great. Splatoon is a fantastic Third Person and I highly recommend you get it. If you hate Splatoon, you're silly as JB.… Expand
  50. GBev
    Jun 2, 2015
    9
    Its a really fun game. Its different, interesting and satisfies that shooter itch while remaining light and relaxing. I'm excited to see what content gets released for it in the future.
  51. andress575
    Sep 2, 2015
    10
    The game was released with a bit of lack of content but has received so many updates this past few months and it keeps groing in content. So I'm really happy that I bought this game back in may
  52. Leonard_gamer
    Jun 2, 2015
    10
    El juego desde el comienzo es muy divertido y emocionante.. jugar online contra personas es super emocionante y estratégico.. el juego le faltan unos mapas pero mas adelante estará completo, aun así me encanto Splatoon
  53. Lui_Sher
    Jun 2, 2015
    10
    Desde el primer dia que lo compré no he podido parar de jugar, me tiene muy sorpendido la capacidad y el ingenio impreso sobre todo en el modo historia, es muy divertido, la verdad lo compre a sabiendas que no estaba completo pero sabia que nintendo lo iba ir llenando de contenido dandole mas vida por mas tiempo al dia de hoy ya le he metido 50 horas y entre mas lo juego mas me gusta,Desde el primer dia que lo compré no he podido parar de jugar, me tiene muy sorpendido la capacidad y el ingenio impreso sobre todo en el modo historia, es muy divertido, la verdad lo compre a sabiendas que no estaba completo pero sabia que nintendo lo iba ir llenando de contenido dandole mas vida por mas tiempo al dia de hoy ya le he metido 50 horas y entre mas lo juego mas me gusta, ahora con el modo de batallas competitivas cen la modalidad pintazona es lo mejor, gacias Nintendo, esos 60USD estan valiendo mucho la pena.… Expand
  54. lizhaopeng
    Jun 3, 2015
    10
    This game is full of fun and it's very addictive to play online turf war mode! I think with the promised free DLC coming in the near future, the game will be more fun and playable!

    By the way, I have bought the three inkling amiibo figures. They are so cute!

    I think every WiiU owner should have a try. It is definitely one game of your WiiU library.
  55. Fenixkam
    Jun 10, 2015
    10
    Great game, very different from conventional shot games. And with charismatic characters in a whole new universe. All accompanied by a very frantic gameplay.
    The local campaign is a bit simple, but accompanied by some excellent bosses at the end of each stage, which will put even to seek their devils points.
  56. zachattack83
    Jun 24, 2015
    10
    To all of you brain-dead idiots who say that splatoon is a COD wannabe, tell me. Does COD involve spraying bullets everywhere to cover the whole map as the main point of the game instead of killing people? No? Well, maybe you should use the *tiiiiiniest* bit of brain power to think about what the game truly is: a masterpiece. Beautifully crafted in many ways, with updates with more stagesTo all of you brain-dead idiots who say that splatoon is a COD wannabe, tell me. Does COD involve spraying bullets everywhere to cover the whole map as the main point of the game instead of killing people? No? Well, maybe you should use the *tiiiiiniest* bit of brain power to think about what the game truly is: a masterpiece. Beautifully crafted in many ways, with updates with more stages and weapons to make the experience even better than it already is. Plus, it isn't even entirely based around multiplayer, either. There's even a killer story mode. The final boss RULES! :D… Expand
  57. Captain_Heropon
    Mar 4, 2017
    6
    Alright, so I actually took the time to write a full and lengthy review for this, but it was a bit too long and complex, so here it is in a basic format:

    PROS: Fun and "unique" (for lack of better terms) gameplay, which some would find addicting. Some fun stages, each one having something unique in its own way. Good variety of weapons, despite some feeling a little unusual to use.    Alright, so I actually took the time to write a full and lengthy review for this, but it was a bit too long and complex, so here it is in a basic format:

    PROS:
    Fun and "unique" (for lack of better terms) gameplay, which some would find addicting.
    Some fun stages, each one having something unique in its own way.
    Good variety of weapons, despite some feeling a little unusual to use.
    Several cool online modes such as Ranked Battles and friend rooms.

    CONS:
    The solo story mode is very meh, however there isn't a whole lot you can do to make it good, because it just doesn't quite fit for this type of game.
    Zero communication during online matches aside from "Booyah!".
    Several things that would just make me sound picky, including things like losing level points just because you or some other person had a communication error and the repetitive and annoying music.

    So basically, it's an alright game. Probably not completely my taste, but I can see why some people would like it so much. Not sure whether or not I'd recommend it.    … Expand
  58. jingQ
    Oct 18, 2015
    9
    +Great graphics
    +Simple menu
    +Essentially the fun of the game
    +Fascinating characters
    +It calls on the challenging ranked match
    +kick ass Multiplayer OST

    -Poor single-player level design and OST(not a Multiplayer. Seriously)
    -Rather, it can not change the main gearpower puts a limit on custom
    -The store changed things at random every day(not a weapon)
  59. Dwiggy
    Jun 25, 2015
    9
    Colorful, inventive and, what most shooters today miss, fun. I would be doing Splatoon a disservice to call it a shooter as it may on the surface appear as one, it most certainly is its own genre. In true Nintendo fashion Splatoon is simple to play but as time goes on tactics will get exceedingly more advanced. I'm glad Nintendo made this game as it combines the cute style the company isColorful, inventive and, what most shooters today miss, fun. I would be doing Splatoon a disservice to call it a shooter as it may on the surface appear as one, it most certainly is its own genre. In true Nintendo fashion Splatoon is simple to play but as time goes on tactics will get exceedingly more advanced. I'm glad Nintendo made this game as it combines the cute style the company is known for with great online gameplay and a creative theme that is super refreshing and fits perfectly with summer, a season in which gaming has a drought. Splatoon does everything it can to show the cold, stagnant winter release lineup that it isn't afraid to splash in its own territory.

    Splatoon isn't without its issues however, there are less options in this game, for instance you can't change weapons mid-game or in the lobby, there also isn't voice chat and there are less maps out right now. Nintendo said they would be dropping more content soon. This issues are minor given how awesome and new this game is. Would highly recommend if you love have a Wii U, and if you are on the fence getting one, this title would should be your tipping point. 9/10    … Expand
  60. Bugman
    Jun 2, 2015
    8
    I haven't had this much fun in a very long time. Nintendo shows there could be more than just picking off people in your typical shooter. The objective is clear, cover the map with your teams ink as much as you can in 3 mins. The team that covers the most wins. The weapon variety is good the gear is decent but the maps are on the light side from the start. More maps, modes and gearI haven't had this much fun in a very long time. Nintendo shows there could be more than just picking off people in your typical shooter. The objective is clear, cover the map with your teams ink as much as you can in 3 mins. The team that covers the most wins. The weapon variety is good the gear is decent but the maps are on the light side from the start. More maps, modes and gear will be available in the future without a season pass. Voice chat is sadly unavailable but to tell the truth there hasn't been one instance where I found it completely necessary. The rounds are delivered in these small sweet doses that doesn't drag on.
    Having to exit the lobby to just change your load out is very inefficient and needs to be adjusted as well as having classes.
    Good
    -Mechanics
    -Fun Factor
    -Multiplayer
    -Weapon Variety

    Bad
    -No Voice chat
    -Content on the light side(more to be delivered in the coming weeks)
    -No weapon selections between matches.

    Splatoon delivers on the fun but the lack of content holds it back. Nintendo has already started releasing content at no charge just 3 days after release which is a positive sign. Let's hope Nintendo will address issues that have to do with voice chat and even the weapon selection between rounds a reality.    … Expand
  61. Dominator
    Jul 2, 2015
    10
    This game is some fresh and innovative shooter. A shooter who's goal is to out-ink the opponents on this map, something the majority of shooters don't have. Because of it's fundamental unique gameplay, the rollers and inkbrushes were unique for this kind of shooter that no other shooters possess. The single player is also amazing. It is the recommendation for every players out there toThis game is some fresh and innovative shooter. A shooter who's goal is to out-ink the opponents on this map, something the majority of shooters don't have. Because of it's fundamental unique gameplay, the rollers and inkbrushes were unique for this kind of shooter that no other shooters possess. The single player is also amazing. It is the recommendation for every players out there to train you for the multiplayer. The final boss, DJ Octavio, is the most shocking one. A leader of its race who is in fact a DJ, he has some awesome music to bring, and his battle starts easy until going chaotic.… Expand
  62. dmelendez34
    Jun 22, 2015
    9
    I really wanted this game to be good because I was disappointed at the online multiplayer with CoD BO2 and Ghost on the Wii U.

    Splatoon is so much fun! Period. This game is good for people that love shooters whether they have tons of experience or not. My 6 year old and myself have been playing this game daily since it came out about 4 weeks ago. I will admit that I am very    I really wanted this game to be good because I was disappointed at the online multiplayer with CoD BO2 and Ghost on the Wii U.

    Splatoon is so much fun! Period. This game is good for people that love shooters whether they have tons of experience or not. My 6 year old and myself have been playing this game daily since it came out about 4 weeks ago.

    I will admit that I am very disappointed my the local multiplayer the game currently has. The Battle Dojo would be so much more fun if it could be 4 player or more local co-op. If it was on online option as well that would be cool too. My hope is that in August the game will have that aspect improved.

    I have had very little with connectivity for online ranked or non-ranked matches. About 3-4 times I got the boot but it is rare. Most of the times I only wait 1 min at most to begin the match.

    The single player campaign was tons of fun. The final boss was tough and enjoyable to defeat. Oh and great music too!

    The amiibo content was also tons of fun. I have beat all the levels with the amiibos except for the final boss with the long range weapon. I really really wish this content was not locked behind the amiibos but I knew I was going to get the 3 pack so I knew I would have access to the content from day 1.

    I wish the single player campaign could have at least been local co-op too. My son would have had tons of fun playing with me instead of watching me. He had a tough time with some of the levels so playing with him at the same time would have helped him big time.

    Bottom line: If you own a Wii U and you like shooters, buying Splatoon is a no-brainer. If you don't have a Wii U, this game + Mario 3D World + Bayonetta 2 + Mario Kart 8 means it is time to buy one.    … Expand
  63. JochiPerez
    Jun 25, 2015
    10
    Splatoon, the new ip of Nintendo is wonderful, realy FUN, beauty graphics, color, and the control is fantastic, mecanica perfecta. Multiplayer 10/10, excelent game to play with firends
  64. GreenMissile
    Jun 30, 2015
    8
    Admittedly, when I first heard of Splatoon, I wasn't that excited for it. I've never been a big fan of shooters, and generally I'll only play them if I enjoy the storyline and characters. Splatoon truly is unlike any other shooter I've played though. People accurately describe the online multiplayer as the Mario Kart of shooters, but I would equate the single player mode more to MarioAdmittedly, when I first heard of Splatoon, I wasn't that excited for it. I've never been a big fan of shooters, and generally I'll only play them if I enjoy the storyline and characters. Splatoon truly is unlike any other shooter I've played though. People accurately describe the online multiplayer as the Mario Kart of shooters, but I would equate the single player mode more to Mario Galaxy, for some fairly obvious reasons.

    The single-player mode felt overlooked at first, as the game starts you off by urging you to go to the multiplayer lobby and merely mentioning a "weird old dude" off in a corner of the hub map. Once you go there, though, a funny and irreverent story begins, and you're suddenly out to save Inkopolis. Along the way, you can pick up orbs that go toward upgrading your weapon suite and collect scrolls that both provide you with some history regarding the game world and blueprints for weapons you can later purchase for online play. The story also culminates in a surprisingly tough final boss fight that is extremely fun and satisfying, albeit a bit repetitive.

    The story mode is not perfect, though. The levels are wildly creative and a blast to, well, blast through, but the story is over after only a few hours. Luckily, you can add new challenge modes with Splatoon Amiibo support, but this is something I've yet to try, and needing to purchase a separate set of figurines to unlock (admittedly very worthwhile, or so I hear) content could be a turn-off for many. Another sticking point with single-player is that you're forced to use the same gear and weapons all throughout, so all those different guns and pieces of gear you can purchase and use online are forever barred from single-player, which makes it feel limiting. What single-player does have over multiplayer though is creativity. Actually, a lot of common things you'll see in single-player will never show up in multiplayer at all. Lastly, although the story is fun and goofy, there's absolutely no weight to it at all. It feels like you're just going through some practice grounds and honing your skills while the occasional boss comes along to get in your way. Your goal is to save Inkopolis, but you never really feel like you're actually doing that.

    On to multiplayer, where the vast majority of play time will be spent. I'm one of those people who looks at lack of voice chat as a blessing. We've learned with voice chat can be like from the likes of other popular shooters like Halo and CoD, and I'm of the opinion that it's not a bad idea to avoid that here. Online can be hit or miss I think. For one, you can't even start purchasing new gear until you hit level 4, which involves participating in a number of online matches. Level 4 comes quickly at least, and it's offset by the fact that you need to do online battles to gather money to purchase new gear in the first place. The real sticking point is the lack of variety in maps and modes, especially early on. Until you hit level 10, which can take a while, you can only participate in Turf Wars. Turf Wars are fun, quick matches where two teams of four battle to cover the highest percentage of the ground in their team's color of ink. Inking walls does not count toward the percentage, but can be a good help for reaching unclaimed or enemy territory. This, and the other online mode, is a lot of fun because it flips the script on what's deemed important in the shooter: not gunning down your enemies at every opportunity, but rather claiming more control of the land than your enemies. It's a refreshing mechanic that can easily appeal to players who aren't too fond of typical shooters, like myself. "Splatting" other players can still give you a nice benefit or two though, like getting them out of the area for a few seconds, and when you splat someone, an explosion of your team's ink bursts forth from them, potentially helping you cover extra land. When it comes to the results screen though, amounts of splatting, whether you were splatted or doing the splatting, is relegated to a minor sidebar that has no bearing on how well you did in the match.

    The other mode, a "king-of-the-hill" style game, is basically the same as a Turf War, except the war is over one or two particular areas of a map. This mode can only be achieved after hitting level 10, which unlocks Ranked Battles where this mode appears.

    On the negative side, there are a scant amount of multiplayer maps. I haven't counted, but I think there are only 8, and the maps rotate every few hours for some reason, so you're stuck with 2 for Turf Wars and 2 for ranked battles until the game switches them again. This lack of variety makes playing online a bit of a drag after a while, especially if you're stuck with maps you're not too fond of.

    All that said, Splatoon is a very fun and creative game. It feels rather lacking so far unfortunately, but never have I had so much fun and felt more joy playing a shooter before picking up Splatoon.    … Expand
  65. Mysteri24
    Aug 18, 2015
    10
    To all the people who don't like this game because of the missing voice chat: Nintendo didn't build in a voice chat because they didn't wanted and they don't want that the players offend each other. So please stop hating this game because of that.
  66. Crappy
    Jul 27, 2015
    9
    I can safely say that the answer to that is a complex one. Splatoon is a really well made game, designed to be accessible for kids but still fun enough for the ‘hardcores’ to get into it. During my time with it, I became totally invested. I played the entirety of the singleplayer, found all the collectible sunken scrolls that show backstory, did half of the Amiibo challenges I’d unlockedI can safely say that the answer to that is a complex one. Splatoon is a really well made game, designed to be accessible for kids but still fun enough for the ‘hardcores’ to get into it. During my time with it, I became totally invested. I played the entirety of the singleplayer, found all the collectible sunken scrolls that show backstory, did half of the Amiibo challenges I’d unlocked and played up to level 10 online, with various weapons.

    So let’s break it down. The core of Splatoon is all about the competitive online multiplayer. When you boot up the game you design your Inkling and are then immediately encouraged to head into the multiplayer. There are currently two gamemodes – Turf War, a deathmatch-like mode where the real goal is to cover as much of the ground with your colour ink as possible, and the (currently ranked-only gamemode) Splat Zone, where you have to capture and hold two zones. Unfortunately the ranked mode is currently locked away until enough people have been playing the game and hit level 10. A huge and essential mechanic in battles is that you can squid jump to a teammate, letting you quickly travel into the heat of battle. No waiting around or slowly travelling to where you want to be – see a teammate on the Wii U gamepad and -WHEEEEEE- squid jump over there! The action is fast paced, the matches are short (only 3 minutes), it’s a perfect combo. Swimming through the ink is also a hugely important feature that speeds up your squid by a ton – but watch out, you can’t swim through your opponent’s ink!

    One thing I don’t quite enjoy about the multiplayer is how maps are handled. There’s plenty of maps available, but they’re on a constant rotation of two at a time every two hours. This is of course just my preference, and I haven’t really seen anyone else complaining about this. When the maps change, you get a quick and quirky cut-scene with Callie and Marie, the fabulous Squid Sisters who are essentially squid celebrities. These two characters are great, oozing personality and charm. You can even find their studio in the main hub of Splatoon and see them – they sometimes even wave at you.

    You start the game at level 1, with a standard ink shooter and low-level clothing. But fret not! You might feel like a squid in a barrel at first but after a couple matches and a few levels up, you’ll be the jetting to the top. There’s three unique weapon types; roller, charger and shooter. Chargers are sniper rifle-like weapons that require a brief charge before firing. Rollers are basically paint rollers that cover a huge part of the ground in ink as you move forward – you can also flick ink at your opponents with a quick tap of the fire button. Finally, the shooters are the generic ink guns. They come with all kinds of stat changes, such as with rapid fire or explosive ink shot abilities. My preference is the roller type weapons, but there’s a handful of shooters that I find exceptionally fun to use.

    You’ve also got the sub weapons. These include various kinds of bombs, homing bombs and support items like splash walls that allow you to fire out of them but don’t let opponents fire in. One of my personal favourites was the Squid Beacon that allows you and your team to squid jump to wherever you place it. The final part of your arsenal is special weapons. These include Inkzookas (self-explanatory right?), and the Bubbler, a bubble shield that blocks attacks for a short period of time. These are all in one loadout that can’t be changed. When you select a weapon, it comes with the sub and special weapons – this system is brilliant, it evenly levels the playing field for everyone and means that you have to play to that loadout’s strengths

    Your clothing is completely customizable though. You can mix, match or look completely odd, it’s all up to you. There’s a huge variety of clothing including actual Japanese branded clothing, and you can also unlock a handful of clothing and weaponry from the singleplayer and amiibo challenges

    The singleplayer is a series of 25 levels and 5 bosses against a mysterious enemy known as the Octolings. Each level has a hidden scroll that tells you more about the world of Splatoon, whereas each boss gives you a blueprint for a new, custom weapon. I’ll avoid spoilers so I won’t specify, but completing the game gives you two full sets of clothing (three pieces per set, 6 pieces per set).

    The singleplayer levels are very impressive though. Despite the campaign’s short runtime of about 2 to 3 hours, each level brings a new mechanic to the table and then experiments with it. For example, one level brings in the sponge block that you can fill with ink to expand it. Later, you have to use a path of them to traverse a gap. In later levels, you’ll have to climb sponge blocks while fighting off enemies that can shrink the blocks back d    … Expand
  67. RockStarGamers
    Jul 28, 2015
    9
    I have had a ton of fun with Splatoon and would highly recommend it to any owner of a Nintendo Wii U. It looks great, plays better and is an absolute must buy!
  68. Squidkid6197
    Jul 30, 2015
    9
    Move over Call of Duty and Battlefield we have a new era defining shooter and it's name is Splatoon!
    Splaoon is a third person shooter game made by Nintendo which focuses on Multiplayer rather than Single player but both are extremely fun and awarding.
    The game starts of with you choosing your inkling a Species that is a Squid who can change into a humanoid at any time Don't    Move over Call of Duty and Battlefield we have a new era defining shooter and it's name is Splatoon!
    Splaoon is a third person shooter game made by Nintendo which focuses on Multiplayer rather than Single player but both are extremely fun and awarding.
    The game starts of with you choosing your inkling a Species that is a Squid who can change into a humanoid at any time
    Don't underestimate these cute Squids because they can pack quite a punch!
    You have a choice between a Boy or Girl inkling, while most people go with the girl I chosen the boy because I am in reality a boy. After you pick your eye and skin color ypu are dropped into a easy to learn tutorial. You can choose to have Stick or Motion controls but I went with the motion controls because I think it has a rather smooth Sensitivity and feel to it. After beating the tutorial you are dropped into Inkopolis the central hub of Splatoon. Here you can buy weapons and gear from the 4 major stores or check in with the Squid Sisters. And this is were your journey begins. In my opinion I'll give this game a 9 out of 10 for it's multiplay and a 7 out of time for the single player.
    Multiplayer is Really fun and addicting and could waste alot of your time. Many critics Complain about the lack of content but with August update that adds more Clothes, weapons, better matchmaker, and a level increase from 20 to 50 I would highly recommend this game if you came here for the multiplayer. But if you came for the Single Player you will be a bit dissapointed with the lack of content in single player. Overall I'll will give this game a 9 out of 10!    … Expand
  69. Warlocke
    Aug 5, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is one of the best, most original titles of the new generation in videogames. It´s a very addictive colorful shooter with tons of stuff to do. Visuals are incredible and multiplayer, like any shooter, is extremely fun. The story is pretty fun, especially defeating every boss in a particular way!
  70. KuroiRider
    Aug 19, 2015
    10
    This game is just amazing, is fresh and truly entertaining, it make you change the way you play and think in the shooter like kind of games, indeed this can be new gender of game.
  71. kaiserof
    Aug 19, 2015
    10
    i love this game. a great new gameplay, excelent weapons and free dlc for the start, great combats in differents arenas
    this new IP of nintendo reborn the console
    PD- I love the ikamusume cosplay
  72. aredneck92
    Sep 11, 2015
    9
    Fun game with a lot to offer. The online battle mode is a different and unique approach to. The team that wins is the team that covers the most area in their color paint. During this mode of play you can try to eliminate the opposing team by covering them in paint, which sends them back to start. Can play with using the gamepad or a controller. I found using the gamepad is actuallyFun game with a lot to offer. The online battle mode is a different and unique approach to. The team that wins is the team that covers the most area in their color paint. During this mode of play you can try to eliminate the opposing team by covering them in paint, which sends them back to start. Can play with using the gamepad or a controller. I found using the gamepad is actually the better way to go. While playing in a local battle one player uses the gamepad to see the action going on. The other player will use the tv screen eliminating the need for a split screen. All around good fun game.… Expand
  73. DoodKing
    Sep 1, 2015
    9
    İ think that Splatoon is a really good Online game.But 1v1 isn't that good enough.And it would be better if the Online was 2 players.And the Game İs Amazing!!!!
  74. Ryng_tolu
    Oct 26, 2015
    9
    Splatoon is the the revolution of the shooter. One of the best game of this generation.
    Splatoon is just too funny to play, and i'm never boring playing this game.
    This is a new gameplay, which i never seen in others games.
    The only disappoint thing about Splatoon is the Single Player, too short and easy, withouth a great story.
    Overall the multiplayer is almost perfect.

    9/10
  75. MohymanAwwad
    Sep 6, 2015
    9
    Great and addictive game, only hiccups is the map rotation and single player is just average. The weapon selection is really good and the ranked battles r fun but can get frustrating.
  76. ChromXsome
    Oct 22, 2015
    10
    This is an awesome "Shooter"

    Games are about fun, and not about Shooting real People (like cod or bf). This game just does (nearly) everything right. Look, I don't Need Voice Chat in this game. Really, I don't, but maybe we should be able to put in more commands, and not just "c'mon" and "yeah". Anyways, the game is awesome, there are lots and lots of weapons and maps. Also the    This is an awesome "Shooter"

    Games are about fun, and not about Shooting real People (like cod or bf).

    This game just does (nearly) everything right.
    Look, I don't Need Voice Chat in this game. Really, I don't, but maybe we should be able to put in more commands, and not just "c'mon" and "yeah".

    Anyways, the game is awesome, there are lots and lots of weapons and maps.
    Also the diffrent modes which are coming are awesome!

    The only negative Thing which I don't like, is that you're not able to choose on which map and which mode you want to Play.

    btw, 7/10, to much paint - IGN    … Expand
  77. awesome-guy-4-u
    Mar 18, 2016
    10
    AMAZING this game is so fresh best wii u game ever its amazing i love it soo much thank you nintendo for this game the online 4v4 are short but fun the single player is awesome and the rank battles are SUPER fun i love this i rate 8/8 m8
  78. Roman_Jeros
    Apr 16, 2016
    10
    Gran manera de reinventar uno de los géneros mas sobre explotados actualmente... Splatoon es Maravilloso, Adictivo, Entretenido y muy Divertido... Como la nueva IP de Nintendo entra por lo alto...
  79. aguarner11
    May 16, 2016
    8
    The most addicting game I've played in my life. It is cool, maybe a little bit repetitive at times, but its gameplay it's gorgeous. It's a pitty you can only play it with the gamepad.
  80. mefzeldernx
    Feb 26, 2018
    8
    innovación es una cualidad que le queda corto a la nueva patente de Nintendo, "Splatoon" nos permite competir de manera online 4 vs. 4 en la lucha por cubrir con pintura la mayor parte del escenario. Con esa premisa y con una estética muy japonesa nace uno de los shooters más divertidos.
    La jugabilidad es muy buena, cada arma es muy fácil de dominar y la conectividad funciona bien. Se    innovación es una cualidad que le queda corto a la nueva patente de Nintendo, "Splatoon" nos permite competir de manera online 4 vs. 4 en la lucha por cubrir con pintura la mayor parte del escenario. Con esa premisa y con una estética muy japonesa nace uno de los shooters más divertidos.
    La jugabilidad es muy buena, cada arma es muy fácil de dominar y la conectividad funciona bien. Se extraña un modo de juego sin controles de movimientos y poder cambiar de equipo sin necesidad de salir del lobby. El contenido es avasallante, al principio era un tema crítica pero las actualizaciones gratuitas lo llevaron a un nivel más que aceptable.
    Un imperdible si tienes Wii U, ya sea para jugar con amigos o con gente random, o solo por el modo historia, "Splatoon" merece estar en cada catálogo de la consola a doble pantalla.    … Expand
  81. syphist
    Oct 10, 2016
    0
    Absolutely terrible online connections. I paid to have a good time, and losing my connection a minute into EVERY match is terrible. I wish I could redeem a refund on this game.
  82. calanga
    Nov 6, 2018
    9
    A funny game to get unstressed, the best is you dont have to pay a single in game dollar. Many hours of play
  83. th3bomb93
    May 29, 2015
    9
    Look, Those people who think that Call of Duty is the best Shooter there is. I don't like it. It's been the same thing pretty much since it released, stick to your outdated pile of junk and leave us who want to try something new and innovative (and much better balanced). Splatoon will be hard to make a sequel to, has a very interesting point to be made and allows those who are notLook, Those people who think that Call of Duty is the best Shooter there is. I don't like it. It's been the same thing pretty much since it released, stick to your outdated pile of junk and leave us who want to try something new and innovative (and much better balanced). Splatoon will be hard to make a sequel to, has a very interesting point to be made and allows those who are not especially good at shooters to at least have fun. Something which COD does not do well, and when Activision tries to do something new and Innovated with the 12 year old IP, You all hate it. For once the reason to own a Wii U is no longer Mario and crew, its cooler than that. Way cooler. Splatoon Has 4 Vs. 4 in reasonably sized maps. Leaves the chose and how you like the way the operate to the user. It allows you to become better over time and leaves the Strategy better than Team Deathmatch. Also the Single Player is More rewarding to play in Splatoon. So here (for once) the problem is not the game. It is the consumer. which has always been the Problem with Developers (they can't please everyone). In fact, I own Black Ops 2 on my Wii U and i have found Splatoon (although lacking in Game modes for now) considerably more fun. I also find Games like this to have a more enjoyable than those who have been recycled over a million times. This game pleases those who are relatively new to gaming as well as those who have been playing video games for over 15 years.… Expand
  84. mooogooo
    May 30, 2015
    10
    The game Splatoon is a very unique multiplayer 3rd person shooter. People who think it is "Copying Call of Duty" just have to realize that Call of Duty is a very basic online shooter. So, other games will obviously have some similarities because COD is a game that ONLY has the basics. Splatoon has much more original ideas than I have seen in a shooter in a long time. People who think theThe game Splatoon is a very unique multiplayer 3rd person shooter. People who think it is "Copying Call of Duty" just have to realize that Call of Duty is a very basic online shooter. So, other games will obviously have some similarities because COD is a game that ONLY has the basics. Splatoon has much more original ideas than I have seen in a shooter in a long time. People who think the game is lacking content have obviously not seen the Nintendo direct in which they said that they will be releasing hordes of new content such as weapons, maps, and game modes all for free. The only major issues I've had with it is a lack of single player content (Which there has been no hints of new content being added for single player), and low FPS in the lobby area. However the FPS is not a a big issue because during fights the FPS stays at around 60.… Expand
  85. BeaQueen
    Aug 17, 2015
    10
    With the 2.0 update, this game is becoming so awesome.
    The best is the character's design, the gameplay, the concept and the number of weapons to choose.
    The worst, the campaign because it is too short and the fact that it does not have voice chat.
    But, for me, is near to perfection. Thank you, Nintendo!
  86. SilentMugwump
    May 31, 2015
    10
    Nintendo definitely has a winner with this IP. They have turned the online shooter genre on its head with some really smart twists. Having the winning objective be covering the biggest area with your team's paint color instead of number of enemies shot changes everything.
    After burning out of other shooter mainstreams such as Halo and COD this game comes as a breath of fresh air. The    Nintendo definitely has a winner with this IP. They have turned the online shooter genre on its head with some really smart twists. Having the winning objective be covering the biggest area with your team's paint color instead of number of enemies shot changes everything.
    After burning out of other shooter mainstreams such as Halo and COD this game comes as a breath of fresh air. The content is vast, given all the variables you can add to your gear, and the way the offline content links with the online content is genius. The way the single player content influences the online portion of the game is everything I wished Halo and COD would have done back in their heyday.
    I have seen that most backlash to the game emphasize the lack of online chat. I honestly did not miss it, if I have any wishes to enhance the online play would be the ability to change your choice of weapon on respawn in case you found that you had too many of a particular type of weapon in your team.
    This should be a system seller along with Super Smash Bros Wii U and Mario Kart Wii U...    … Expand
  87. drgndrums
    May 31, 2015
    10
    Nintendo once again shows that, like Pixar movies, you can create smart, wonderful media that works for any generation. And while Splatoon borrows from a number of genres, it's truly a unique experience and the most fun I've had in a long time playing a multiplayer game. We need Nintendo innovating and pushing game design. Let the other companies push technical specs, I like my gamesNintendo once again shows that, like Pixar movies, you can create smart, wonderful media that works for any generation. And while Splatoon borrows from a number of genres, it's truly a unique experience and the most fun I've had in a long time playing a multiplayer game. We need Nintendo innovating and pushing game design. Let the other companies push technical specs, I like my games smartly built. Many of the complaints people have seem to be intentional design decisions that I appreciate. The lack of voice chat can be frustrating, and perhaps they should have included it within your friends list, but I love not having it. There is no toxic community, which is appropriate in an all ages game. And if they were to give players an option to turn it on or off, it would then force me to decide between handicapping my team or dealing with that toxicity. Now its a level playing field. And while teamwork is essential, its difficult to NOT be useful in some way, no matter what you're doing, and its pretty obvious what you need to be doing at any time due to smart design decisions.

    Lobbies launch fast. Really fast. So fast that I get annoyed because I'm trying to play the silly little mini game. Online play has been seamless and lag free in matches with people from all over the world (another issue if there was voice chat: I don't speak Japanese).

    There is ALWAYS something to do. No enemies? Shoot paint. Enemies? Shoot paint. In the lobby? Play the addictive mini game. The complete lack of down time keeps me playing far longer than I intended. Yes, you have to leave a lobby to change equipment, but you can jump right back in. This would only be annoying if playing with friends. And yes, it can be frustrating when you wind up on a team with four sniper rifles, but it makes for unique experiences that only have to last for three minutes. Besides, this game is fun win or lose.

    Weapons are entertaining and balanced. Some require more of a learning curve than others, but I've seen all perform well. Others complain that there are only five maps and Nintendo limits these to two options every so many hours. But there isn't a single map that I dread playing. They're thought out and well designed. The player base has already learned the maps and that's a good thing. They've gated off more game modes until the player base has enough experience with the game. That's also a good thing. It won't be long before Nintendo releases free new content.

    Ultimately, this is a game that I truly can appreciate. As a dad, I like that I can play a genre of game that I would otherwise not be able to have around my kid. As someone who burned out on shooters a long time ago, Splatoon is revitalizing. It seems silly, but Nintendo's little game about shooting paint may very well be my game of the year. Keep innovating, Nintendo.    … Expand
  88. boblemoche
    May 31, 2015
    10
    Just perfect, Nintendo give à new original IP, i like this :) fun fun fun and more fun for many years ! Spectacular, clean, perfect, the new reference of the fun in team
  89. eleuck1
    May 30, 2015
    9
    What Mario Kart is to racing games, is what Splatoon is shooting games. Splatoon is a fun game that anyone can enjoy, especially with multiplayer. Well done Nintendo, well done.
  90. DBPirate1129
    Jun 5, 2015
    9
    I’d be the first to admit that when Splatoon was first shown off at E3 2014, I wasn’t exactly excited. I mean, the game looked cool at least, but I was nowhere near as hyped as most people. As more and more information about the game was released (such as the single-player campaign), I became interested in it. The thing that really convinced me to get the game was the Splatoon Direct.I’d be the first to admit that when Splatoon was first shown off at E3 2014, I wasn’t exactly excited. I mean, the game looked cool at least, but I was nowhere near as hyped as most people. As more and more information about the game was released (such as the single-player campaign), I became interested in it. The thing that really convinced me to get the game was the Splatoon Direct.

    The main mode of the game is Turf War in which, you guessed it, tried to claim as much turf as possible in 3 minutes. You control strange creatures known as Inklings which use three types of weapons: shooters (or guns), chargers, and rollers. My favorite kind of weapons were the shooters as they covered a lot of ground and offered good offense. You’re more likely to win with the rollers but you were basically defenseless when using them. As an Inkling, you shoot ink on the ground and walls as well as swim through your own ink to move faster. This gameplay really separates Splatoon from other shooters out there and makes it feel even more unique than it already is. The colorful style of the game is also a contributing factor to this. Turf War was easily my favorite mode of the bunch.

    As of the date this review was made, there is only one Ranked Battle mode and that is Splat Zones. You only unlock Splat Zones once you get to Level 10 which was a bit high to me. I think Level 8 or 9 would’ve been reasonable too. Unfortunately, I was a bit less disappointed by this mode. It doesn’t feel worth all the effort getting to Level 10 which, believe me, takes forever! In this mode, there are areas on the stage your team must control for 100 seconds total. The concept looked interesting at first but soon I found it was more hectic and frustrating than just being simple fun like Turf War. I will try out this mode on occasion every now and again but it’s definitely not forgiving.

    Surprisingly, I had absolutely no lag while playing through Splatoon’s online modes. As you’ll spend most of the game playing online with others, it’s good Nintendo focused on making it as smooth as possible. I did have a few communication errors but none of them were during the match—they were all just in the lobby. Speaking of the lobby, the main area you’ll be exploring here is Inkopolis. It was pretty easy to get around since it was straightforward. If you don’t like finding the right shop everytime though, you can just click it on the GamePad which was super helpful.

    I really enjoyed the story mode, though not as much as Turf War. It seems every level introduces a new idea like Super Mario 3D World. Yes, the levels are linear but that’s never bothered me in past games and they definitely didn’t here. The bosses really stand out as a unique part in the mode. You really had to think about how to defeat them which is something I really appreciate in this kind of game. For something that has online modes as its main focus, I was surprised by how much I liked the single-player campaign.

    Battle Dojo is Splatoon’s only local co-op mode which was a bit of a shame as I was hoping for some co-op Turf War. You can do two-player online in Smash Bros. so why not here? Maybe in some future DLC. In Battle Dojo, you have to pop as many balloons as possible. They’ll appear in 20 second intervals on the stage you’re playing on which is plenty of time. Battle Dojo does feel like it goes on for quite some time but I’m pretty sure you won’t be playing it that much anyway. Not that it’s bad, it’s just not the most memorable aspect of the game.

    Overall, Splatoon was a very interesting game. We rarely see new IPs by Nintendo but this game for sure should encourage them to continue making them. While Turf War stands out as being my favorite mode of the game, I really enjoyed the story mode as well as the co-op Battle Dojo at times. The only thing I didn’t really like was Splat Zones but I can look over that. The online is smooth and the gameplay is super unique compared to other shooters.    … Expand
  91. afakeaccount
    May 30, 2015
    10
    Splatoon > CoD, Battlefield, Planetside, Dust, etc. Why? Because it's quick and fun.
    You don't need VOIP. You don't need tactics. You just need to let go and enjoy it. Which is easy. It's bright, ridiculous, and unlike any other shooter.
    The nicest thing is my 7 year old kids are currently playing it now. Despite the fact that they're goobers who can't play games like this (and in fact    Splatoon > CoD, Battlefield, Planetside, Dust, etc. Why? Because it's quick and fun.
    You don't need VOIP. You don't need tactics. You just need to let go and enjoy it. Which is easy. It's bright, ridiculous, and unlike any other shooter.

    The nicest thing is my 7 year old kids are currently playing it now. Despite the fact that they're goobers who can't play games like this (and in fact never have before), they're on winning teams, having fun, and the best part is I don't have to wonder about the message I'm sending by letting them shoot people in the face with machine guns, there's no cursing in the game dialogue (BF is the worst for this), and there's no squeakers filling the VOIP channel with insults, cursing, or racial epithets.

    This game is fantastic.

    BTW, I don't know what it is, but the soundtrack is oddly infectious. From the weird little squid hip hop, to the really very groovy dub that plays during match setup.    … Expand
  92. omarvs91
    May 30, 2015
    10
    This is what WII U needed!, a free new IP. It's a must-buy for every wii u owner and a strong reason to buy a wii u. The world of shooters will change because of this game.
  93. Captiosus
    Jun 8, 2015
    8
    (Updated: 6/8/15; Original post: 5/30/15)
    Splatoon isn't perfect but it comes pretty close, which is an amazing feat as it's a first game in an all new IP from Nintendo. Here are my quibbles that drop it down in score:
    Minor: - Inability to change equipment while sitting in the matchmaking screen. - Inability to back out of the matchmaking screen without shutting off the Wii U. -    (Updated: 6/8/15; Original post: 5/30/15)
    Splatoon isn't perfect but it comes pretty close, which is an amazing feat as it's a first game in an all new IP from Nintendo. Here are my quibbles that drop it down in score:

    Minor:
    - Inability to change equipment while sitting in the matchmaking screen.
    - Inability to back out of the matchmaking screen without shutting off the Wii U.
    - Motion/Gyro controls are horrid and way too twitchy even on the lowest sensitivity, The game shines with twin stick controls, however.
    - Initial repetition of the maps. Yes we're getting more soon, free, on a regular basis but after one afternoon I've seen 4 maps until I'm (almost) sick of them. I can't imagine how some people reached level 20 in the first 24 hours without getting burned out.
    - If someone gets disconnected or just doesn't play, you WILL lose. 3 on 4 is unforgiving, and heaven help you if you lose more than 1 person.

    Major (Update):
    Although I originally rated the game a 9, I've dropped it down to an 8 due to one issue:
    - Longevity: Although the weapons are (more or less) fairly balanced and the maps probably some of the best arena maps I've played since the heyday of the arena games in the early 2000's, I've hit a wall with Splatoon simply because I've (almost) run out of things to do. At time of typing, I've reached max level in multiplayer, I have maxed out 3-star gear in all gear slots, have 100% completion of the single player (all upgrades, all 32 sunken scrolls [27 stage, 5 boss]), and I have a very small handful of amiibo challenges to finish. Bear in mind that I DID NOT play marathon sessions to achieve this. I generally got to play for an hour or two a night since release and even had a few days where I didn't play at all. Don't get me wrong, I'm still picking up the controller and playing, but for how long remains to be seen.

    Personal gripe:
    - amiibos. I had no problem with amiibo's prior to Splatoon but the way these amiibo (disclaimer: yes, I own them), unlock content rubs me the wrong way. Yes, the content they unlock is just remixed versions of the existing single player campaign, and yes the end rewards are cosmetic only. However, there is an AWFUL LOT of replay value that they gated behind the amiibo! Essentially the single player campaign could easily be doubled in length IF you have all of the amiibo, which isn't a given as the Squid is packaged in bundles in both North America (3 pack only) and Europe (bundled with game only). There's no guarantee the Splatoon amiibo will ever work in future games, either, one of the few redeeming qualities of the amiibo platform.

    These issues aren't gamebreaking and, if you own a Wii U, you're doing yourself a great disservice if you don't at least try Splatoon. It's a game that has something for everyone while remaining family friendly.

    A final comment:
    People complaining about voice chat, just stop. 3 minute matches on condensed maps do not lend well to deep strategy. The time you'd spend trying to formulate a plan would just put you further behind the other team. Plus, everything you need for on-the-fly strategy is right there on your gamepad. Voice chat would only open up the game to the most toxic elements of the community and make the game far less family friendly than it is.    … Expand
  94. EFYevan
    May 29, 2015
    10
    I bought this game on launch day and tried out the trial, and it is the BEST new game Nintendo has put out in 14 years! Free online that actually works! Well done, Nintendo, this is a must buy!
  95. hagelt18
    May 30, 2015
    9
    It is a lot more fun that I expected! I wasn't too sure about the game at first but the inklings are growing on me and the nickelodeon vibe it's got going on is also welcome. I only wish they had full local multiplayer!
  96. SJile
    Jun 8, 2015
    7
    Splatoon is a beautiful thing. Are you a kid or are you a squid? You just don't know. You don't care. You need to cover everything with ink, because your OCD demands it. It's fun, creative, fast-paced, and what's perhaps even more genius is that it allows anyone--skilled or unskilled--to succeed. This is a phenomenal feat if you are the game's primary demographic.

    Alas, if you are a    Splatoon is a beautiful thing. Are you a kid or are you a squid? You just don't know. You don't care. You need to cover everything with ink, because your OCD demands it. It's fun, creative, fast-paced, and what's perhaps even more genius is that it allows anyone--skilled or unskilled--to succeed. This is a phenomenal feat if you are the game's primary demographic.

    Alas, if you are a gamer who actually cares about improving and competing, it is also Splatoon's downfall. They have an almost meaningless "ranked" mode, which is essentially a cluttered, frustrating, uncoordinated version of king of the hill, with paint. The control area is small enough that one ink strike special will mitigate a team's possession, which seems weird to me. Because it's Nintendo, they were very careful to insure that nobody had too much of an advantage with skill alone. Rollers are a great equalizer for people who have no gaming experience or hands, and the gear bonuses appear to be totally randomized to ensure you don't get any smart ideas or feel inclined to play with an outfit that you actually like.

    You cannot communicate with your teammates online, and players are often afk or disconnected on account of Nintendo's lackluster server configuration. In a 4v4, this is typically a death-sentence for the unlucky team. You play with a mix of people across the world, which sounds neat, but any seasoned gamer will realize what it actually means: a mix of pings on a mystery server that people on one half of the globe or the other will have the advantage in.

    The game's other big flaw is that you can't seem to play with your friends locally unless you want to do the vastly inferior 1-on-1 balloon popping game. There is no local cooperative play, no split screen, and no ability to even play with your friends online, because while you can join their game, it's seemingly random which team you are on.

    At the end of the day, it's a fun game. You'll play it, have fun with it, grow frustrated at its blue shell equivalents, and wish it was more than it is. But you'll play it and have fun with it.    … Expand
  97. BlazC
    May 30, 2015
    9
    Absolutely great game with addictive online gameplay and fun single player campaign. Would be perfect with an optional online chat and a simultaneous 2 player online mode, like in MK 8. But hey, that can all be improved in Spla2n! :)
  98. SuperWooper
    May 30, 2015
    8
    All around beautiful in terms of color, look, music, and game play. Replay value is extremely high and is a highly competitive as well as addicting game from the start. The lack of voice chat doesn't bother me, but I was hoping for a little more variety with clothing, weapons, and stages, but it leaves more room for improvement if there's to be a Splatoon 2.
  99. SmashBoo
    May 30, 2015
    10
    I've never had so fun with a brand-new Nintendo IP in years. Splatoon is colourful, addictive and absolutely fun. Remember that time when you played a Mario Kart game or a Smash Bros. game for the first time and felt like it was the most enjoyable thing in the world, you'll feel the same with Splatoon.
  100. acegibbo
    May 31, 2015
    9
    By GOD is this game good. It is so fun and unique. The story is one of the best single-player experiences I have had on the Wii U (although not long) and the use of amiibo is pretty good as well! There is a lot of customization with what weapons you want to take on and what gear you where. The main game, the online, is pretty good. Lack of online chat doesn't bother me that much, as youBy GOD is this game good. It is so fun and unique. The story is one of the best single-player experiences I have had on the Wii U (although not long) and the use of amiibo is pretty good as well! There is a lot of customization with what weapons you want to take on and what gear you where. The main game, the online, is pretty good. Lack of online chat doesn't bother me that much, as you already have a good idea of what to do from your team-mates actions and looking at the map on the GamePad. Lack of stages is a problem, as well as modes, but there will be more of both every week or two weeks, so no need to worry about that. It is a highly recommended game that can stand on its own tentacles alongside Smash Bros. and Mario Kart.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Best Wii U Game of 2015
1
#1 Most Discussed Wii U Game of 2015
6
#6 Most Shared Wii U Game of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 88 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 75 out of 88
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 88
  3. Negative: 0 out of 88
  1. Time
    Nov 10, 2015
    100
    There’s nothing else quite like it, nor the cathartic dopamine jolt to be had when you squid-skim up a paint-smeared quarter pipe, an Inkzooka at the ready, leap over the edge, take aim with your weapon, and reduce a startled opponent to goo.
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  2. SpazioGames
    Oct 23, 2015
    85
    We waited a bit before giving a vote to Splatoon, but after three months, the game is full of new weapons, has some awesome new modes, and it's still really, really fun. It's a WiiU killer app, one of those games that are not only extremely original, but so well made they utterly deserve a big and supporting community. If you have a WiiU and want an atypical shooter, this is the game for you.
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  3. CD-Action
    Sep 18, 2015
    75
    Please don’t just look at the score and “meh” Splatoon, because this online shooter is the best thing that happened to Wii U in a long time. It just needs some major updates, because on arrival it’s just 75% of The Game of the Year. [09/2015, p.46]
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