I fancied a new Switch 2 game and there are a number that I still want. I opted for this one (Splatoon Raiders) as a single-player shooter, which appeared to be highly recommended.
I’d previously passed up on Splatoon games as they are more multiplayer-focused. I did want to see what I may be missing out on, and this seems to be a good entry game for single player. I bought it on cartridge to save space on my console and to be able to swap it if I didn’t like it.
I managed to pick it up for £42, which isn’t bad from Argos. After inserting the cartridge, it downloaded a very small update. While cartoony and childlike looking, don’t be put off thinking it might be basic. It is actually quite hard, and the gameplay is a little different. Your character can turn into a squid and shoot and move on ink. Islands/lands to play can be platform-like as you search for gear and treasure. Just avoid enemy-colored ink and water that causes you damage.
Initially, after completing some training levels, the difficulty quickly ramped up. Until I get used to the gameplay, I have set it to easy for an initial playthrough. The movement does take a little getting used to. I have used my Pro Controller 2 while the game is docked, and I’ve tried handheld mode as well. The movement does appear to use the gyroscope to help with aiming (you can switch this off in the settings). This appears easier to manage with the Pro Controller. As you find gear, you can also use this to enhance gameplay by making modifications to your character and equipment. Between levels your base is on a ship and you can set a training ground up to practice and test modifications to equipment. An arcade machine (once earn’t) can also be added.
This game blends various genres. While hunting for treasure, you’ll encounter platforming sections, puzzle-solving elements and of course, shooting. After a bit of a learning curve and some perseverance when struggling to progress, it all suddenly clicked and I can see why many believe it is a fun and fantastic game.
The main game is quite short with 20 levels. But once completed it opens up many more additional levels. You can also opt to help others who may be stuck (via making yourself available online) and a multiplayer section also exists.
While fun and I am sure I will get many hours out of this game, all the speaking is subtitled, and English-speaking characters would be a bonus. The in-game chatter sounds more like nonsensical gibberish than any real language. I’ve heard others complain about the music, but that hasn’t bothered me so far.
I really was in two minds whether to buy it, and it has meant that I now have something a little different to play. A game that I can quickly dip into and a Nintendo first-party title, so you know it’s quality. Next up, we need a version of Splatoon vs. other Nintendo characters. Now that would be fun.
I’m so glad I took a chance on this one. It really demonstrates the importance of sometimes taking a chance.
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