Splatoon 4 Release Date Anticipated After Splatoon 3 Updates Conclude

Nintendo's announcement ending regular updates for Splatoon 3 has reignited speculation about a potential Splatoon 4.

Nintendo Halts Regular Splatoon 3 Updates

Splatoon 4 Anticipation Mounts as an Era Concludes

Nintendo has confirmed the end of regular content updates for the acclaimed Splatoon 3. While this marks a significant shift, the game isn't entirely abandoned. Holiday events like Splatoween and Frosty Fest will continue, along with ongoing monthly challenges, and weapon balance patches will be released as needed.

"After two fantastic years of Splatoon 3, regular updates are concluding," the official Twitter (X) announcement stated. "However, Splatoween, Frosty Fest, Spring Fest, and Summer Nights will return! Weapon adjustments will be released as needed, and Big Run, Eggstra Work, and Monthly Challenges will continue for now."

Splatoon 3's two-year run, coupled with the cessation of active development, has fueled rumors of a sequel – Splatoon 4.

Intriguing in-game elements spotted by keen-eyed fans during the Grand Festival, possibly hinting at a new city in a future Splatoon installment, have further ignited the speculation.

Responding to images of a city-like location shared alongside Nintendo's announcement, one fan commented, "That doesn't look like Inkopolis. Could this be Splatoon 4's setting?" However, others remain unconvinced, suggesting the location is merely a variation of Splatsville from the game's opening sequence.

Although no official announcement regarding Splatoon 4 exists, speculation has been building for months, with reports suggesting Nintendo has begun development on a new Splatoon title for the Switch. The Grand Festival's status as Splatoon 3's final major Splatfest strengthens the belief that Splatoon 4 is on the horizon.

Historically, Splatoon's Final Fests have influenced subsequent sequels, leading fans to anticipate a "Past, Present, or Future" theme for Splatoon 4, based on Splatoon 3's concluding event. However, concrete details await official confirmation from Nintendo.