Nintendo has officially released the comprehensive patch notes for the highly anticipated Splatoon 3 Version 11.0.0 update, which will be available worldwide on January 28, 2026, across both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 platforms.
This substantial update introduces the innovative Flow Aura mechanic, alongside important balance adjustments, bug fixes, and improvements to the game’s core multiplayer experience. The Version 11.0.0 patch represents a significant evolution for Splatoon 3, bringing a mix of new gameplay systems and refinements aimed at competitive and casual players alike.
Nintendo has emphasized their ongoing commitment to refining the ink-splatting shooter by focusing this update on pivotal battle systems and weapon diversity. ### Introduction of the Flow Aura Mechanic The headline feature of the Version 11.0.0 update is the Flow Aura mechanic.
Players who excel during battles—such as by quickly defeating multiple opponents—will now be rewarded with a temporary Flow Aura.
This aura boosts several key abilities, including Run Speed Up, Swim Speed Up, Ink Resistance Up, and Intensify Action, empowering skilled players during critical moments.
Additionally, assisting teammates and inking territory increase the likelihood of activating Flow Aura upon defeating opponents.
The Aura’s duration extends with successive eliminations or assists, visually marked by freshly inked ground at the player’s feet. ### Enhanced Multiplayer Feedback and Weapon Adjustments A major quality-of-life enhancement in this update is the display of an opponent or ally’s approximate remaining health for three seconds after they take damage.
This feature is adaptive—health is not displayed if the player is hidden from view, unless abilities like Thermal Ink or Point Sensor reveal them. Weapon balance has been a core focus.
For example, the L-3 Nozzlenose family now fires shots 24% faster, but with a reduced ink splatter radius, shining a spotlight on its tactical, burst-fire role.
The Dynamo Roller family benefits from a wider inking area and increased one-swing KO distance, offset by higher ink consumption.
Other weapons, such as Heavy Splatling and Dark Tetra Dualies, see buffs aimed at strengthening diversity among main weapons. Special weapons also receive tuning, with the Reefslider’s blast radius increased for one-hit potential, while its charge distance and ink coverage have been scaled back for strategic depth.
Point requirements for activating various specials have been adjusted, reflecting Nintendo’s ongoing calibration of the competitive meta. ### SplatNet 3 and System-Wide Enhancements The update revamps X Rankings on SplatNet 3, displaying players’ most frequently used weapons in competitive modes instead of just the last used, supporting clearer tracking of playstyles.
Nintendo’s balance philosophy is clear: rather than blanket upgrades, changes are intended to spotlight the unique characteristics of each weapon, providing meaningful choices for players. ### Comprehensive Bug Fixes and Gameplay Improvements Version 11.0.0 also addresses several gameplay issues: - Issues with canopy recovery on the Undercover Brella have been resolved. - Problems with dualie dodge rolls in unstable wireless conditions are fixed. - Map-specific bugs in Clam Blitz and Splat Zones, as well as stage scenery interactions, have been addressed for improved fairness and consistency. ### Looking Ahead Nintendo has indicated that due to the scale of this multiplayer overhaul, players can expect the next update to arrive sooner than usual, with a continued focus on multiplayer balance. Splatoon 3 continues to receive dedicated post-launch support, cementing its status as a leading multiplayer shooter on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
For the full breakdown of the intricate balance changes, weapon details, and system enhancements, players are encouraged to review the complete in-game patch notes and follow official Nintendo channels. Stay tuned for further Splatoon 3 developments as Nintendo bolsters its acclaimed ink-based franchise on current and next-generation Switch platforms.
This substantial update introduces the innovative Flow Aura mechanic, alongside important balance adjustments, bug fixes, and improvements to the game’s core multiplayer experience. The Version 11.0.0 patch represents a significant evolution for Splatoon 3, bringing a mix of new gameplay systems and refinements aimed at competitive and casual players alike.
Nintendo has emphasized their ongoing commitment to refining the ink-splatting shooter by focusing this update on pivotal battle systems and weapon diversity. ### Introduction of the Flow Aura Mechanic The headline feature of the Version 11.0.0 update is the Flow Aura mechanic.
Players who excel during battles—such as by quickly defeating multiple opponents—will now be rewarded with a temporary Flow Aura.
This aura boosts several key abilities, including Run Speed Up, Swim Speed Up, Ink Resistance Up, and Intensify Action, empowering skilled players during critical moments.
Additionally, assisting teammates and inking territory increase the likelihood of activating Flow Aura upon defeating opponents.
The Aura’s duration extends with successive eliminations or assists, visually marked by freshly inked ground at the player’s feet. ### Enhanced Multiplayer Feedback and Weapon Adjustments A major quality-of-life enhancement in this update is the display of an opponent or ally’s approximate remaining health for three seconds after they take damage.
This feature is adaptive—health is not displayed if the player is hidden from view, unless abilities like Thermal Ink or Point Sensor reveal them. Weapon balance has been a core focus.
For example, the L-3 Nozzlenose family now fires shots 24% faster, but with a reduced ink splatter radius, shining a spotlight on its tactical, burst-fire role.
The Dynamo Roller family benefits from a wider inking area and increased one-swing KO distance, offset by higher ink consumption.
Other weapons, such as Heavy Splatling and Dark Tetra Dualies, see buffs aimed at strengthening diversity among main weapons. Special weapons also receive tuning, with the Reefslider’s blast radius increased for one-hit potential, while its charge distance and ink coverage have been scaled back for strategic depth.
Point requirements for activating various specials have been adjusted, reflecting Nintendo’s ongoing calibration of the competitive meta. ### SplatNet 3 and System-Wide Enhancements The update revamps X Rankings on SplatNet 3, displaying players’ most frequently used weapons in competitive modes instead of just the last used, supporting clearer tracking of playstyles.
Nintendo’s balance philosophy is clear: rather than blanket upgrades, changes are intended to spotlight the unique characteristics of each weapon, providing meaningful choices for players. ### Comprehensive Bug Fixes and Gameplay Improvements Version 11.0.0 also addresses several gameplay issues: - Issues with canopy recovery on the Undercover Brella have been resolved. - Problems with dualie dodge rolls in unstable wireless conditions are fixed. - Map-specific bugs in Clam Blitz and Splat Zones, as well as stage scenery interactions, have been addressed for improved fairness and consistency. ### Looking Ahead Nintendo has indicated that due to the scale of this multiplayer overhaul, players can expect the next update to arrive sooner than usual, with a continued focus on multiplayer balance. Splatoon 3 continues to receive dedicated post-launch support, cementing its status as a leading multiplayer shooter on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
For the full breakdown of the intricate balance changes, weapon details, and system enhancements, players are encouraged to review the complete in-game patch notes and follow official Nintendo channels. Stay tuned for further Splatoon 3 developments as Nintendo bolsters its acclaimed ink-based franchise on current and next-generation Switch platforms.
