Splatoon 2 Nintendo Direct: Launch Details and Key Updates for Nintendo Switch Fans
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Published on: July 06, 2017
Description
Nintendo fans and Switch owners have plenty to celebrate as Splatoon 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the original ink-based shooter, prepares for its official release on the Nintendo Switch.
Developed by Nintendo EPD, this vibrant multiplayer shooter follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, bringing fast-paced, team-based gameplay and colorful characters known as Inklings to Nintendo’s best-selling console.
To ramp up anticipation ahead of Splatoon 2’s launch, Nintendo hosted a dedicated Nintendo Direct broadcast, airing live at 7 a.m.
PT / 10 a.m.
ET.
The stream provided fans and industry insiders with new insights, gameplay footage, and details on what to expect from this major release in the Switch lineup.
During the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo spotlighted new features for Splatoon 2, including expanded multiplayer modes, additional weapons and gear, and fresh maps designed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch hardware.
The company emphasized their commitment to delivering post-launch content free of charge through regular software updates and special in-game Splatfest events, continuing the community-driven tradition that made the original Splatoon a standout title on the Wii U.
In a clear push to engage both competitive and casual players, Nintendo EPD introduced the new cooperative Salmon Run mode, which sees teams of players battling waves of enemies in a high-stakes survival challenge.
The broadcast also reiterated the game’s global release date: Splatoon 2 will officially land on the Nintendo Switch family of systems on July 21, 2017, available both physically and digitally on the Nintendo eShop.
Reflecting on the significance of this installment, a Nintendo spokesperson noted that Splatoon 2 elevates the series with improved motion controls tailored for the Switch’s Joy-Con and Pro controllers, local and online multiplayer support, and robust community features.
"Splatoon 2 represents our ongoing commitment to delivering engaging multiplayer experiences for players of all ages," the spokesperson said in a statement summarized for clarity.
Since its debut, the Splatoon series has garnered critical praise and commercial success, with Splatoon on the Wii U selling over 4.95 million copies worldwide.
Expectations for the sequel are high as Nintendo continues to expand its portfolio of innovative first-party titles for the Nintendo Switch platform, which has seen record-breaking sales since its launch in March 2017.
With Splatoon 2 nearing its launch, Nintendo Switch players and Splatoon fans alike can gear up for an exhilarating new chapter in one of Nintendo’s most vibrant and original franchises.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates and community events after release, as the world of Inklings continues to evolve on Nintendo’s versatile hybrid console.
