# TLDR Review: Splatoon 2

*Published: 2024-07-23 | Updated: 2024-12-08 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/splatoon-2*

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## Product: Splatoon 2
**Brand:** Nintendo

## Pros
- Unique gameplay focus on map coverage with ink rather than kills appeals to non-traditional shooter fans.
- Offers a variety of weapons and strategies, allowing varied play styles and contribution to the team effort.
- Campaign mode is accessible to newcomers, offering a perfect introduction to game mechanics.
- Fun multiplayer modes with high replay value, especially Turf Wars and Ranked Battles.
- Features Salmon Run mode for a unique cooperative challenge against CPU opponents.
- Vastly improved graphics and new soundtrack for a fresh experience compared to the original game.
- Offers extensive customization options with new stages, gear, and weapons regularly added.
- Handheld mode highlights the effective gyro controls and visual appeal.
- Engaging universe with vibrant colors and creative characters like squid kids and paintball guns.
- Regular updates keep the game fresh with new content and challenges.

## Cons
- Requires a Nintendo Online subscription for complete access, limiting those without it.
- No split screen local play, which is surprising for a family-oriented console.
- Only supports two players if they own separate Switch consoles.
- Long waits to find online matches can be frustrating.
- The need to physically move the controller for aiming might not suit everyone.
- Similarity to the Wii U version may not provide enough novelty for past players.
- The use of a phone app for friend communication is inconvenient for some gamers.
- Lack of octolings as playable characters limits customization options.

## Bottom Line

Splatoon 2 on the Nintendo Switch is a standout title for both casual and competitive gamers, offering unique and strategic gameplay in a vibrant world. Whether you're an original fan or a newcomer, this game promises hours of entertainment, especially for shooter enthusiasts looking for something fresh. However, to fully enjoy all aspects of the game, a Nintendo Online subscription is a must, and players should be aware of the multiplayer limitations without separate consoles. If you're looking for a colorful and fun twist on the shooter genre, Splatoon 2 is definitely worth checking out.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Unique gameplay focus on map coverage with ink rather than kills appeals to non-traditional shooter fans. | Requires a Nintendo Online subscription for complete access, limiting those without it. |
| Offers a variety of weapons and strategies, allowing varied play styles and contribution to the team effort. | No split screen local play, which is surprising for a family-oriented console. |
| Campaign mode is accessible to newcomers, offering a perfect introduction to game mechanics. | Only supports two players if they own separate Switch consoles. |
| Fun multiplayer modes with high replay value, especially Turf Wars and Ranked Battles. | Long waits to find online matches can be frustrating. |
| Features Salmon Run mode for a unique cooperative challenge against CPU opponents. | The need to physically move the controller for aiming might not suit everyone. |
| Vastly improved graphics and new soundtrack for a fresh experience compared to the original game. | Similarity to the Wii U version may not provide enough novelty for past players. |
| Offers extensive customization options with new stages, gear, and weapons regularly added. | The use of a phone app for friend communication is inconvenient for some gamers. |
| Handheld mode highlights the effective gyro controls and visual appeal. | Lack of octolings as playable characters limits customization options. |
| Engaging universe with vibrant colors and creative characters like squid kids and paintball guns. |  |
| Regular updates keep the game fresh with new content and challenges. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Walmart | $48.88  | Check |
| altatac inc. | $54.95  | Check |
| Sears | $54.95  | Check |
| Play-Asia.com | $54.99  | Check |
| Play-Asia.com | $54.99  | Check |
| Toy Street | $56.29  | Check |
| Zatu Games | $59.96  | Check |
| Neqtiq USA | $60.03  | Check |
| Fishpond.com | $66.85  | Check |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*