Rock Candy
Although many people still see Splatoon as a niche series of games, the world and characters still have much more to give. People who have never played the games may not see it, but the announcement of Splatoon Raiders could send the community into overdrive again. We do not know much other than the title, but I and other fans have ideas for this new installment, and how it could expand other related projects. So here are a few high hopes for the future of Splatoon.
Raiders and recycling
One thing about Splatoon’s set of games is that they always have unique gimmicks. These squid people have mastered the art of adding fun challenges and mechanics, without making the games feel too reliant on small changes. Each new gimmick is incorporated into the lore and gameplay well enough to be fun for new players and veterans alike. There is no doubt that there will be interesting level design and unique bosses. Now, we need to expand on the gimmicks that have been added over the years, and make them easier to customize.
Small things, like being able to have custom kits for weapons, making more special attacks available, or incorporating difficulty settings, would actually be game changers. Other mechanics like the squid roll, and super jump could receive more customization. Such as trading the strength of the ink barrier for a bigger/faster roll.
Since the core mechanics of inking turf and changing into a squid are so easy to build off of, this Raiders installment has the liberty to play around with quality of life additions that were not possible in previous games.
We need an anime
As we get increasingly closer to the AI takeover around the world, people will be craving nostalgia. What better way to resist generative AI and satisfy the masses with an animated show?
A show in general would bring more people to the games, but a nostalgia driven style would show the world a lost type of content. Something full of lore, but still having Saturday morning cartoon vibes. Maybe even “next episode” teasers at the end of episodes. The possibilities are practically endless.
This would allow people to get a mix of something new, while still being catered to. We already have a manga after all.
Music and Art
Something many fans have wondered about is the lack of merchandise for the Splatoon games. Outside of some stickers and plushies of the idol characters, there hasn’t been much official merch. Raiders would be a good opportunity to try more merch ideas, and to make them more available outside of Japan.
Things like concept art, soundtracks in physical form, or clothing could truly make Splatoon into a style on its own. The possibilities are endless, and it could possibly inspire Nintendo to lower the game price, in exchange for more optional merchandise, since the fans are so starved for it.
My personal wishlist
- Spray paint themed weapons
- More challenge modes
- A boy band for the new idols
- More hairstyles
- Ability to occasionally choose ink color
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