Nintendo’s vibrant team-based shooter, Splatoon 3, is set to receive a substantial new update tomorrow, March 18, 2026.
This highly anticipated Version 11.1.0 patch introduces sweeping changes to both multiplayer matchmaking systems and weapon balances, further refining the online experience for players on the Nintendo Switch and the recently announced Switch 2 platforms.
Splatoon 3, developed and published by Nintendo, continues to build on its reputation for fast-paced action and innovative gameplay mechanics, drawing a wide and dedicated player base since its initial release. The latest update specifically targets improvements in multiplayer engagements.
Notably, the patch makes adjustments to how X Battles are matched.
Previously, players were grouped based strictly on their current X Power.
Going forward, Nintendo has implemented a system where matchmaking will consider players’ projected final X Power, aiming to create more balanced matches after a series of games rather than at a single moment.
This shift intends to minimize lopsided encounters, particularly at the start of new competitive seasons. The update also refines matchmaking for regions and time zones with lower player counts.
According to Nintendo’s revised guidelines, the criteria for equal skill levels will adapt more gradually to ensure teams remain as evenly matched as possible, further enhancing the competitive environment.
Players in the Tentatek Division may now find themselves matched with others across the 2000.0 X Power threshold, promoting greater variety and challenge. A significant focus of the Version 11.1.0 update is enhancing weapon diversity and balance.
Several weapons receive tailored adjustments: - **Splattershot Nova and its Annaki variant**: Shot speed increased by about 25% without affecting range. - **Flingza Roller variants**: Adjusted vertical swing for improved damage at distance. - **Octobrush line**: Ink consumption per swing reduced by approximately 10%. - **Bamboozler 14 Mk I/II**: Boosted movement speed during charging or firing by roughly 13%. - **Bloblobber Deco**: Damage increased from 30.0 to 32.0. - **Douser Dualies FF and Custom Dualies**: Faster transitions after dodge rolls by 1/30th of a second. - **Tenta Brella variants**: Canopy launch ink usage reduced by 23%. - **Dynamo Roller series**: Effects of ink saver reduction fine-tuned. Certain special weapons have also been updated.
For example, the Ultra Stamp now features a reduced explosive radius by about 10%, making precise throws more integral for maximum damage. Furthermore, adjustments to the points required to activate special weapons have been made for several popular choices, such as the Splattershot, Sploosh-o-matic, Splash-o-matic, Luna Blaster Neo, Blaster, Custom Blaster, Rapid Blaster Pro Deco, Dynamo Roller, Inkbrush Nouveau, Heavy Splatling, Dapple Dualies, and Splat Dualies.
These changes reflect an ongoing commitment to gameplay balance and fair competition. Nintendo emphasizes that these modifications are based on comprehensive battle data analysis, particularly from Version 11.0.0, ensuring that weapons previously considered overpowered have been gently toned down, while those underutilized see buffs for broader viability.
As articulated in Nintendo’s update notes, their goal is to create a more equitable and enjoyable online environment, reducing skill disparities and broadening strategic diversity in multiplayer modes. Fans can expect further refinements in upcoming patches, with the developer stating that the next update will focus specifically on battle balance.
Splatoon 3’s ongoing support showcases Nintendo’s dedication to delivering a seamless and balanced online experience for its competitive community, solidifying its presence on both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 platforms.
This highly anticipated Version 11.1.0 patch introduces sweeping changes to both multiplayer matchmaking systems and weapon balances, further refining the online experience for players on the Nintendo Switch and the recently announced Switch 2 platforms.
Splatoon 3, developed and published by Nintendo, continues to build on its reputation for fast-paced action and innovative gameplay mechanics, drawing a wide and dedicated player base since its initial release. The latest update specifically targets improvements in multiplayer engagements.
Notably, the patch makes adjustments to how X Battles are matched.
Previously, players were grouped based strictly on their current X Power.
Going forward, Nintendo has implemented a system where matchmaking will consider players’ projected final X Power, aiming to create more balanced matches after a series of games rather than at a single moment.
This shift intends to minimize lopsided encounters, particularly at the start of new competitive seasons. The update also refines matchmaking for regions and time zones with lower player counts.
According to Nintendo’s revised guidelines, the criteria for equal skill levels will adapt more gradually to ensure teams remain as evenly matched as possible, further enhancing the competitive environment.
Players in the Tentatek Division may now find themselves matched with others across the 2000.0 X Power threshold, promoting greater variety and challenge. A significant focus of the Version 11.1.0 update is enhancing weapon diversity and balance.
Several weapons receive tailored adjustments: - **Splattershot Nova and its Annaki variant**: Shot speed increased by about 25% without affecting range. - **Flingza Roller variants**: Adjusted vertical swing for improved damage at distance. - **Octobrush line**: Ink consumption per swing reduced by approximately 10%. - **Bamboozler 14 Mk I/II**: Boosted movement speed during charging or firing by roughly 13%. - **Bloblobber Deco**: Damage increased from 30.0 to 32.0. - **Douser Dualies FF and Custom Dualies**: Faster transitions after dodge rolls by 1/30th of a second. - **Tenta Brella variants**: Canopy launch ink usage reduced by 23%. - **Dynamo Roller series**: Effects of ink saver reduction fine-tuned. Certain special weapons have also been updated.
For example, the Ultra Stamp now features a reduced explosive radius by about 10%, making precise throws more integral for maximum damage. Furthermore, adjustments to the points required to activate special weapons have been made for several popular choices, such as the Splattershot, Sploosh-o-matic, Splash-o-matic, Luna Blaster Neo, Blaster, Custom Blaster, Rapid Blaster Pro Deco, Dynamo Roller, Inkbrush Nouveau, Heavy Splatling, Dapple Dualies, and Splat Dualies.
These changes reflect an ongoing commitment to gameplay balance and fair competition. Nintendo emphasizes that these modifications are based on comprehensive battle data analysis, particularly from Version 11.0.0, ensuring that weapons previously considered overpowered have been gently toned down, while those underutilized see buffs for broader viability.
As articulated in Nintendo’s update notes, their goal is to create a more equitable and enjoyable online environment, reducing skill disparities and broadening strategic diversity in multiplayer modes. Fans can expect further refinements in upcoming patches, with the developer stating that the next update will focus specifically on battle balance.
Splatoon 3’s ongoing support showcases Nintendo’s dedication to delivering a seamless and balanced online experience for its competitive community, solidifying its presence on both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 platforms.
