Splatoon 3 Receives Free Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade: Enhanced Performance and Visuals Detailed

Splatoon 3, Nintendo's vibrant and fast-paced multiplayer shooter, has firmly established itself as a flagship title on the Nintendo Switch platform since its release in September 2022.

Praised for its innovative gameplay, the Splatoon series continues to attract both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.

Now, with the advent of the Nintendo Switch 2, Splatoon 3 has received a significant and free upgrade, leveraging the improved hardware to deliver notable enhancements for players. The latest update, available now via the Switch eShop, introduces a suite of graphical and performance improvements when playing Splatoon 3 on Nintendo Switch 2.

According to Nintendo, players can expect higher resolutions, more stable framerates, and sharper visual fidelity.

Animations have also been further refined, resulting in a smoother overall gameplay experience.

These changes take full advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded processing power, presenting an opportune moment for both new and returning players to dive back into the action. However, the update also brings subtle changes for those continuing to play on the original Nintendo Switch hardware.

Patch notes provided by Nintendo indicate that, during specific modes—such as Splat Zones, Tower Control, Rainmaker, and Clam Blitz—certain background elements and non-battle visuals are now omitted.

The official statement notes, "To minimize operational speed differences between Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, select elements unrelated to the gameplay stage will not display while battling in these modes.

All elements will continue to display as usual in Recon Mode." While this adjustment might initially disappoint some, the decision reflects Nintendo’s commitment to a consistent and competitive online experience across both versions of the console.

By simplifying non-essential graphics on the original hardware, framerate stability and parity are better maintained for all players, regardless of platform.

According to the updated patch notes, these omitted features are minor details, such as moving billboards and environmental effects, which do not alter core gameplay mechanics or user experience. This marks a unique approach in Nintendo’s strategy: rather than only boosting performance for the newer hardware, the company has also carefully optimized the experience for legacy Switch players to ensure fairness and smooth cross-platform play.

Splatoon 3 continues to prove its enduring popularity.

Since launch, the game has sold millions of copies worldwide, regularly featuring in Nintendo Direct presentations and eShop highlights.

Developer Nintendo EPD’s ongoing support further cements Splatoon 3’s status as a pillar of competitive and cooperative gaming on Nintendo platforms. For those interested in a side-by-side visual comparison, gameplay videos are available that highlight the changes and improvements across both Switch versions.

Early feedback from the community suggests that most of the abbreviated elements on the original Switch are minimal and do not detract from Splatoon 3’s energetic gameplay. With the Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade live, Splatoon 3 is set for another surge in activity.

Players are encouraged to explore the latest enhancements and share their experiences as Nintendo continues to refine one of its most dynamic franchises.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Splatoon Nintendo Splatoon 3 Switch 2 Switch