Ninjala vs Splatoon: GungHo Online CEO Clarifies Key Differences on Nintendo Switch

GungHo Online Entertainment has made a significant impact on the Nintendo Switch with the free-to-play launch of Ninjala, a vibrant action title that has drawn frequent comparisons to Nintendo’s hit Splatoon series.

Despite surface similarities in their art styles and team-based gameplay, GungHo Online’s CEO, Kazuki Morishita, wants to ensure players recognize the major differences that set Ninjala apart from its ink-soaked counterpart. Speaking to Eurogamer, Morishita noted that while Ninjala and Splatoon might initially appear similar due to their colorful aesthetic, they offer fundamentally distinct experiences.

Recasting a notable statement, he explained, "While Splatoon focuses primarily on shooting mechanics, Ninjala emphasizes close-quarters combat.

It's structured around four-versus-four team battles and also features a battle royale mode, presenting a diverse set of challenges quite distinct from Splatoon.

Both games are excellent in their own right, but our hope is that Ninjala will be enjoyed on its unique merits." Ninjala, which launched exclusively via the Nintendo eShop in June 2020, is GungHo Online’s first major Switch-exclusive title.

Since its release, the game has amassed millions of downloads, underscoring the platform’s popularity for accessible, free-to-play experiences.

Morishita recalled GungHo’s motivation to bring Ninjala to Switch: "When we began development, the Nintendo Switch was just launching.

The platform’s appeal to a wide demographic, especially younger gamers, made it the ideal choice for Ninjala." This differentiation between the two titles is more than cosmetic.

While Splatoon centers on team-based turf wars using paint blasters, Ninjala offers fast-paced melee action, ninja-inspired weaponry, and robust multiplayer modes, including both team play and free-for-all battle royales.

The decision to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch aligns with GungHo’s focus on fostering a family-friendly multiplayer community and leveraging the Switch’s unique networking and accessibility features. The relationship between GungHo Online and Nintendo is not new.

GungHo has previously collaborated with Nintendo on Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Bros.

Edition for the Nintendo 3DS.

While Morishita expressed admiration for Splatoon and suggested potential enthusiasm for future collaborative events, he made it clear that, for now, Ninjala stands as a distinct property within the Switch ecosystem. With ongoing updates and seasonal events, Ninjala continues to carve out its niche among competitive multiplayer titles on Nintendo Switch.

GungHo’s commitment to supporting the game with fresh content demonstrates their dedication to building a lasting, engaged community distinct from other platform exclusives.

For gamers seeking energetic, melee-focused competition, Ninjala offers a compelling alternative to the ink-splatting mayhem of Splatoon, further enriching the diverse game library on Nintendo’s flagship console.

Nintendo Switch Splatoon Nintendo GungHo Switch Ninjala GungHo Online Kazuki Morishita Eurogamer