Splatoon 2

 Switch
User Score
8.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1398 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,153 out of 1398
  2. Mixed: 138 out of 1398
  3. Negative: 107 out of 1398
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  1. fredinator
    Nov 25, 2018
    5
    I want to like Splatoon 2 but can't. It has fun design but
    - NO DEDICATED SERVERS even though you have to pay for online service
    - Weapons are poorly balanced and the passives on items increase that imbalance
    - Bear Corp is worse... It gives you random weapons you don't want to use or are simply bad against certain enemies
  2. Pugefest
    Mar 11, 2019
    6
    This game is fun at its core, but it the decisions the developers made in regards to matchmaking prevent this from being something I ever seek out to play. I have at times waited numerous matches queued to join a friend, with it autofilling slots with other people before myself. In other instances, it joins me into a lobby without the friend. The lack of simple multiplayer functionalityThis game is fun at its core, but it the decisions the developers made in regards to matchmaking prevent this from being something I ever seek out to play. I have at times waited numerous matches queued to join a friend, with it autofilling slots with other people before myself. In other instances, it joins me into a lobby without the friend. The lack of simple multiplayer functionality that has at this point been around for over a decade is inexcusable, and their attempt to remedy it through an external mobile app (whose party function still does not let you play together in public matches) is offensive. Paired with that, the unskippable news reels are annoying (especially since you have to sit through them every time the stages change), and the inability to play salmon run whenever I want also demotivates myself from playing.… Expand
  3. westkent
    Aug 18, 2017
    7
    Trying to play this game online with friends is pretty much impossible, salmon run is limited by time, the online app is a mess, the server runs at 18 ticks and the single player was just all right. This has to be one of the worst online experiences for an online game in recent years, but even with so many flaws the game play is addicting, music is exciting and painting your color ontoTrying to play this game online with friends is pretty much impossible, salmon run is limited by time, the online app is a mess, the server runs at 18 ticks and the single player was just all right. This has to be one of the worst online experiences for an online game in recent years, but even with so many flaws the game play is addicting, music is exciting and painting your color onto the ground is super satisfying. This really is really an amazing game only held back by Nintendo's non existent knowledge of how online games work, if you are wanting a competitive game, i suggest you look over to Overwatch or CS:GO, but if you are looking for a good time this game definitely deliveries.… Expand
  4. raihidara
    Jul 21, 2017
    7
    It's mild fun, just don't expect to have any fun with friends and family at home, as split screen is not an option. Otherwise there is a short and bland single-player mode, and the main meat of the game is online. Very little has changed from the previous entry as well. Avoid this game unless you live for online play.
  5. awolcz
    Jul 23, 2017
    6
    I didn't play the original game, so I really like the concept. The idea of the game is really great and I'm enjoying the core gameplay. But what is really bad about the game is friend support. Only way to play with your friends is in regular mode, where you are rarely on the same team. You are always on random teams. Other way is to create private match using mobile application, and inviteI didn't play the original game, so I really like the concept. The idea of the game is really great and I'm enjoying the core gameplay. But what is really bad about the game is friend support. Only way to play with your friends is in regular mode, where you are rarely on the same team. You are always on random teams. Other way is to create private match using mobile application, and invite 7 other people! Otherwise, you are not playing with your friends, unless you reach B- rank in ranked mode (which also can not be played with friends). Getting that rank is extremely difficult, because you play with bunch of randoms and also, rank is given per mode, and modes rotate every 2 hours. This game is so much "team up with friends" unfriendly, that it is ridiculous, especially for team based game. If this is fixed, I could give this game like 9/10, but current state is really a joke.… Expand
  6. Madmortagan68
    Jul 27, 2017
    5
    I love this game but am so frustrated with Nintendo. In almost every way this game is better than the original. The weapons and especially the specials are more balanced. The map designs have been improved. The single player campaign is more robust and flushes out the game mechanics much better. And the portable nature of the switch makes the whole experience better.

    That said,    I love this game but am so frustrated with Nintendo. In almost every way this game is better than the original. The weapons and especially the specials are more balanced. The map designs have been improved. The single player campaign is more robust and flushes out the game mechanics much better. And the portable nature of the switch makes the whole experience better.

    That said, Nintendo is being ridiculous with this game. If they created a car with infinite reusable energy, a breakthrough that could change the world, they would decide not to put in an air conditioner or enable the windows to be rolled down.

    My rating instantly goes to a 10 when they make Salmon Run available at all times or at least allow you to create a lounge for it online at all times . They way they schedule this mode is one of the stupidest things I've seen in years. I'm also extremely frustrating that this is also the only realistic way I can play cooperatively with my friends. We cannot play cooperatively in turf war because the matchmaking randomizes the teams. We cannot play cooperatively in ranked either. Instead I have to wait for all my friends to become eligible for league battles. Come on Nintendo these simple-to-change things are having a major negative impact on this game    … Expand
  7. rafaaguilera
    Sep 12, 2017
    7
    I loved Splatoon on Wii U, it was a fun and very fresh take on shooter genre, but unfortunately this sequel doesn't add much more to what we've played before. It features the same gameplay structure and modes with some extra content (and better visuals), like a new horde mode called ''Salmon Run'', which is nice by the way, but for some strange reason, it's not available to play anytime.I loved Splatoon on Wii U, it was a fun and very fresh take on shooter genre, but unfortunately this sequel doesn't add much more to what we've played before. It features the same gameplay structure and modes with some extra content (and better visuals), like a new horde mode called ''Salmon Run'', which is nice by the way, but for some strange reason, it's not available to play anytime. Also there is a new story for the single-player campaign, that was something i was expecting bigger improvements in terms of length and production value for this sequel. However, even good, it is disappointedly similar and short as the first game.
    So, i'd say that if you skipped the Wii U, go for it and have a great time, but if you have played the original to death, you may get tired of playing the same stuff all over again.
    Splatoon 3 will probably happen some day, so i'm counting on a completely re-invention for the series next time.    … Expand
  8. retr0gamer
    Aug 31, 2017
    7
    Splatoon 2 is a great sequel but I there is alot of problems. 1, the wifi is a problem, when I play online some times it will lag and say there is a connection problem. 2, Salmon Run is a great mode but IT SHOULD BE OPEN ALWAYS!!!!! There is more problems but other then that it's a great game. I would recommend it to people
  9. Michael_Stars_5
    Aug 9, 2017
    7
    This sequel to the smash hit of 2015 feels like the same game with a new bucket of paint. While I played Splatoon 2 I just felt like I was playing the first game but with DLC. It's gameplay is addictive of course just like the first, but it feels boring, it doesn't feel brand new, and that's exactly what a sequel should do. So when stuff like FIFA 17 happens, it doesn't feel like a sequel,This sequel to the smash hit of 2015 feels like the same game with a new bucket of paint. While I played Splatoon 2 I just felt like I was playing the first game but with DLC. It's gameplay is addictive of course just like the first, but it feels boring, it doesn't feel brand new, and that's exactly what a sequel should do. So when stuff like FIFA 17 happens, it doesn't feel like a sequel, the game is fun but at the same time boring, the story is great but predictable and overall a fun experience that should have costed less.… Expand
  10. edeo
    Aug 14, 2017
    7
    Splatoon 2 is an ok game, it does have some very good gameplay and mechanics but almost none of that from the singelplayer is in the multiplayer the weapons are hopelessly unbalaced. The sigleplayer is very good but to short and some of the bosses are wait for them to attack the weakpoints are exposed hit the weakpoints x amout of times. But is it fun........... kinda even if this game isSplatoon 2 is an ok game, it does have some very good gameplay and mechanics but almost none of that from the singelplayer is in the multiplayer the weapons are hopelessly unbalaced. The sigleplayer is very good but to short and some of the bosses are wait for them to attack the weakpoints are exposed hit the weakpoints x amout of times. But is it fun........... kinda even if this game is a piece of garbage there is still something very fun about splatting things with paint. Because you cant make groups and there is no voice chat i say wait for a sale and buy it if you are intrested.… Expand
  11. brandonblue9
    Aug 10, 2017
    6
    it's great but, when are we going to get less connection problems and a skip button on the stage reveals? my connection problems make me wanna call this game "'A communication error has occurred' simulator".
  12. KingHeavy
    Aug 12, 2017
    6
    For the multiplayer, there isn't much different from Splatoon 1. And as someone who wasn't a really big fan of Splatoon 1's multiplayer, this was very disappointing for me. However, I loved the singleplayer in both games, and Splatoon 2 expands upon the singleplayer and makes it even better. If you haven't played Splatoon 1, than I would recommend it. But if you have, than I wouldn'tFor the multiplayer, there isn't much different from Splatoon 1. And as someone who wasn't a really big fan of Splatoon 1's multiplayer, this was very disappointing for me. However, I loved the singleplayer in both games, and Splatoon 2 expands upon the singleplayer and makes it even better. If you haven't played Splatoon 1, than I would recommend it. But if you have, than I wouldn't recommend this game.… Expand
  13. MediaFreak
    Jul 21, 2017
    7
    A good game let down by lack of improvements.

    No amount of polish and digits at the end of the title can fool anyone here. This is just spaltoon 1 again. The improvements that the first one needed arent here and the fact that you no longer have the second screen map make this feel like the prequel. If you played the first game you'll be frustrated yet again, having to get to level 10    A good game let down by lack of improvements.

    No amount of polish and digits at the end of the title can fool anyone here. This is just spaltoon 1 again. The improvements that the first one needed arent here and the fact that you no longer have the second screen map make this feel like the prequel.

    If you played the first game you'll be frustrated yet again, having to get to level 10 (at least a dozen hours) of the dullest mode the game has to offer to be able to play the fun stuff. On top of that there is still no replay to show you how you died, you still have to come offline to change your load outs, and no new gameplay elements seem to have been introduced.

    On top of all this there is still no voice chat, sure you can use youe phone and the nintendo app to voice chat, but i can only use my phone and facetime whilst playing this game, doesnt mean this game has video chat now does it.

    A lazy effort alround by nintendo.    … Expand
  14. Goo4you
    Aug 7, 2017
    7
    For what it is Splatoon 2 has a lot going for it. As Nintendo finally wakes up and starts building new IP's to keep their company afloat, I wonder if this is just skin-deep?

    Splatoon 2 is unique on the surface; new creative ideas for design, but within is the same tired, monotonous gameplay design Nintendo refuses to budge on. While I understand this might be what core players desire,    For what it is Splatoon 2 has a lot going for it. As Nintendo finally wakes up and starts building new IP's to keep their company afloat, I wonder if this is just skin-deep?

    Splatoon 2 is unique on the surface; new creative ideas for design, but within is the same tired, monotonous gameplay design Nintendo refuses to budge on. While I understand this might be what core players desire, it means Nintendo is now ONLY making gameplay for that player base and the rest be damned!

    Everything works in the game. Shooting is fun, maps are fun, the objectives are fun, upgrades feel good to get, but there is where and how far I felt it was worth to go. After getting compete gear what is there truly left to do with Splatoon 2? You are left with simply getting to an equilibrium with combat against other players to endlessly do the same thing over and over and over. I personally find this is indicative of the current video game market; but Nintendo are the LEADERS in monotonous game design.

    As said said before: everything works, but there's nothing to work towards, nothing more akin to a past trope equivalent in video games: Earning Points. This is how the gaming industry has moved in the last few years: Build a game, debase things that worked in generations past (story is dumb in games), exclaim ONLY gameplay matters, hide ineptitude (can't be bother to make a story that works) build EVERYTHING around gameplay, create boring endless pvp fighting that amounts to nothing but more of the same, just with the same handful of maps/objectives. How many times can someone do the samething I wonder? And I know there will be people which will disagree here; that's expected. You are part of the community that ALWAYS wanted this, the vast majority though are stuck.

    If you are looking for something new from Nintendo with Splatoon 2, you will be getting only half new. A solid pvp shooter which is nothing more than a monotonous point collector simulator with vibrant colors.    … Expand
  15. akukul
    Jul 30, 2017
    7
    This game would be really good if it wasn't so bad.

    You get absolutely brilliant gameplay, wonderful mechanics and lovely visuals, all ruined by nintendo's completely dumb decisions. There are 8 battle stages, but they change every two hours, so if you're interested in short session you'll be able to play only two of them. Every single day you get to watch unskippable cutscene    This game would be really good if it wasn't so bad.

    You get absolutely brilliant gameplay, wonderful mechanics and lovely visuals, all ruined by nintendo's completely dumb decisions. There are 8 battle stages, but they change every two hours, so if you're interested in short session you'll be able to play only two of them. Every single day you get to watch unskippable cutscene presenting current stages even though you can check these anytime yo want in menu. Matchmaker is not very good, you either get into battle instantly or wait three minutes to be kicked out because there's not enough players. There's a lot of AFK players, whom in 4vs4 make a huge difference. After reaching level 10 you gain access to ranked battles (which is reasonable). There are three ranked modes, which also change every two hours. Therefore if you don't like one of modes, you won't be able to play other modes until time window passes. After reaching rank B- (which means gaining three ranks, or actually two if you're good enough) you gain access to league matches, which can only be played with friends against other teams. Since I only have two pals who own switch and neither of them have splatoon, I'm unable to play league battles. You cannot change weapons without quitting lobby (it's due to matchmaking being weapon based - which is BS, it matches completely wrong weapons sometimes, like 4 identical weapons in one team and 4 different weapons in another). You cannot communicate with teammates, so if someone does something stupid you cannot tell him what to do or insult him for being stupid. Only three messages are availabe - "booyah", "this way" and "ouch". It doesn't suit my communication needs at all. You can also use MOBILE APP for voice chat but only with your friends, so it's easier to use TS or Discord. There's also fourth game mode - salmon run, which is cooperative rush mode. I really like it, but you can't play it all the time since it has time windows (WTF nintendo?!). So, to sum things up - I don't like the matchmaker, I don't like time windows, I don't like playing two levels over and over again, I don't like completely unbalanced weapons. I get more annoyed than satisfied by this game.

    There's also a single player mode, but it's so dull, there's no point in even launching it.    … Expand
  16. mixedreviews
    Jul 27, 2017
    7
    The success of Splatoon so far has been unquestionable. That said, there are faults within the game, and those faults continue in #2.

    Team "balancing" is an issue. One game is a "blow out" for one team, the next, a "blow out" for the team you are selected for. "Blow outs" should be a rare occurrence, but they are not. There should be more games that are competitive. A regular "Bell    The success of Splatoon so far has been unquestionable. That said, there are faults within the game, and those faults continue in #2.

    Team "balancing" is an issue. One game is a "blow out" for one team, the next, a "blow out" for the team you are selected for. "Blow outs" should be a rare occurrence, but they are not. There should be more games that are competitive. A regular "Bell Curve" should apply to game distribution.

    This of course does not apply to "League" or "Custom" in #2.

    Also, game "precision" could be improved, accounting more for evasive maneuvers that a player does in "close shot" situations. The game seems to err on the side of the shooter getting the "splat", rather than the "dodger" getting away.

    On the defensive side, it's really easy to "stack" your player defensively (with clothing bonuses), making them way too difficult to splat with direct shots firing on them. Toning down the defensive bonuses might help here.

    If you liked #1, #2 is recommended. If you've never played Splatoon before, this is a cool game that is fun, and can be addicting. Sometimes, it can be a little frustrating though.    … Expand
  17. Gravy_Dreamboat
    Jul 24, 2017
    6
    This is an excellent game; it has loads of creativity, personality, and mechanics that are both solid and unique. BUT the game is plagued with horrible servers. I'm constantly disconnected (as are many others, apparently) while using a network that runs Overwatch, Rocket League, and Battlefield 1 with no problems. Otherwise, I would give this game a 9/10.
  18. zephir93
    Jul 22, 2017
    5
    sound more like splatoon deluxe then splatoon 2. as always, poor content and questionable choices from nintendo.

    i hope this and arms will be updated with more more more contents
  19. ultraviper
    Nov 29, 2017
    7
    Really fun game, both single player and multiplayer. This review probably would have been a 9 or 10 if not for one thing: the REALLY LONG UNSKIPPABLE CUTSCENE every time you start the game while connected to the internet. I have 3 kids that play and we all take turns, all with our own profiles, so we have to watch the REALLY LONG UNSKIPPABLE CUTSCENE 4 times every day.
  20. Sakamoto_San
    Sep 11, 2017
    7
    Un buen titulo, lo mejor que ay al momento en switch pero se siente flojo en comparación a su primer entrega, este splatoon 2 parece mas un DLC del primero que otro juego, técnicamente no mejoro nada, pero si entrego un poco mas de historia, algunos campos y armas nuevas y su mayor fortaleza nuevos modos de juego es muy recomendable en especial si no jugaste el primero, aunque resultaUn buen titulo, lo mejor que ay al momento en switch pero se siente flojo en comparación a su primer entrega, este splatoon 2 parece mas un DLC del primero que otro juego, técnicamente no mejoro nada, pero si entrego un poco mas de historia, algunos campos y armas nuevas y su mayor fortaleza nuevos modos de juego es muy recomendable en especial si no jugaste el primero, aunque resulta frustrarte el pésimo servicio de juego online que tiene.… Expand
  21. AllySky
    Jun 16, 2018
    7
    Clearly love and effort is being put into this game, not to mention it is incredibly adorable and fun. However the game play is at times frustrating, and it is far from the best moba out there.
  22. DolphinReviews
    Jul 20, 2022
    5
    Splatoon 2 is a sequel in the same way pickles are a sequel to cucumbers. It doesn't do much different from the first game but does leave me feeling salty.

    It's a decent game, the story mode is okay and the multiplayer is okay.
  23. midipon
    Dec 6, 2019
    6
    Ever since version 4.0/the introduction of Main Power Up the meta has been ass. Oftentimes getting splatted is more "who's cheesing the game" than anything else. Even the casual Turf War mode is full of people who waste time slapping the ZR button instead of playing the game.

    Get rid of snipers and rebalance the game and it'll be great again. See you in Splatoon 3, I'm letting my Switch    Ever since version 4.0/the introduction of Main Power Up the meta has been ass. Oftentimes getting splatted is more "who's cheesing the game" than anything else. Even the casual Turf War mode is full of people who waste time slapping the ZR button instead of playing the game.

    Get rid of snipers and rebalance the game and it'll be great again. See you in Splatoon 3, I'm letting my Switch Online lapse. I have had enough of Salmon Run too, ever since version 5.0 every rotation of that mode has been awful.    … Expand
  24. MiracSpectac
    Dec 19, 2017
    7
    As someone who was quite skeptical of the first Splatoon, this sequel has done a great job improving on the base mechanics and alleviating my doubts about the concept. It's fast, quirky and fun with a great soundtrack to boot. But while it does do a great job improving on the original, I feel it doesn't do nearly enough. I believe the original displayed an interesting concept that didn'tAs someone who was quite skeptical of the first Splatoon, this sequel has done a great job improving on the base mechanics and alleviating my doubts about the concept. It's fast, quirky and fun with a great soundtrack to boot. But while it does do a great job improving on the original, I feel it doesn't do nearly enough. I believe the original displayed an interesting concept that didn't work whereas Splatoon 2 improves these mechanics showing that it can work, though the lack of compelling modes doesn't really create a game that begs to be played. I still believe it's a great game, but after a couple entries the series is still rough around the edges.… Expand
  25. BFM
    Mar 27, 2020
    6
    This game is mechanically flawed.
    It makes only sense to play this with motion controls.
    The problem is that the motion controls on Switch are very bad. No matter if you use Joy-Con or the Switch Pro Controller, any fast movement will result in the sensors going off and your character looking at the sky or the ground. You are constantly resetting the view, and you are not allowed    This game is mechanically flawed.
    It makes only sense to play this with motion controls.
    The problem is that the motion controls on Switch are very bad.
    No matter if you use Joy-Con or the Switch Pro Controller,
    any fast movement will result in the sensors going off and your character looking at the sky or the ground.

    You are constantly resetting the view,
    and you are not allowed to aim as fast as your hands and mind would allow it,
    because it is just too much for the Switch motion sensors.

    You might think that this is something you can live with, but it will slowly eat up and destroy any enjoyment that you could have, playing this game competitively.
    Only a big pile of frustration awaits you, once the honey moon period is over.    … Expand
  26. Zalabar22
    Dec 26, 2017
    6
    Splatoon 2 is an incredibly casual shooter that can be fun in short bursts. The lack of decent party systems, dependable and accsessable voice chat, and it's incredibly unbalanced multiplayer really hurt this game to the point that it will never be anything more then a fun game when played in short bursts. Did I mention it is only fun in short bursts?

    -23 hours played at the time of    Splatoon 2 is an incredibly casual shooter that can be fun in short bursts. The lack of decent party systems, dependable and accsessable voice chat, and it's incredibly unbalanced multiplayer really hurt this game to the point that it will never be anything more then a fun game when played in short bursts. Did I mention it is only fun in short bursts?

    -23 hours played at the time of posting this review, obviously over the course of multiple play sessions that were played in short bursts.    … Expand
  27. Handtorch
    Nov 17, 2017
    5
    -Update-
    My original score on the game was a 4/10. After playing the game for a while I’m willing to bump up my score 2 points for not having mico-transactions, season passes, or charging for new maps. However, the matchmaking process is rubbish and I end up on a team that is either stomping on the opposition or being stomped. About 1/3 of the time there is a dropped player that    -Update-
    My original score on the game was a 4/10. After playing the game for a while I’m willing to bump up my score 2 points for not having mico-transactions, season passes, or charging for new maps. However, the matchmaking process is rubbish and I end up on a team that is either stomping on the opposition or being stomped. About 1/3 of the time there is a dropped player that dictates what side loses. It is less than satisfying to win a match only to see that the losing side had a zero point player. I’ve also been dropped from games with a “connection error”; when I start another match I’ve been greeted with a ban threat if I keep dropping. I haven’t rage quit this game yet. I have a stable internet connection (fiber optic) and I do not have connection issues with any other online game I’ve played on PS4 or PC. Considering the match making problems and dropped players I have to give the game a -1 point; the resulting delta then +1, so 5/10.

    The game play was fun I really like the concept of a cartoon shooter that would be fun to play with my son. That being said there is no split-screen multiplayer mode. I could understand not supporting split-screen multiplayer for a game like Call of Duty but not a cartoon game that should share the same demographic as Mario Kart. With the exception of the very short campaign/tutorial the lion’s share of the game is online only; this becomes a problem when you find out Nintendo will be charging an annual fee for online play. On principal I’m not willing to pay full price for what is a yearly rental. Because the Switch doesn’t support voice chat it can be difficult to coordinate with your teem but that really didn’t hurt the game when I was playing it. I would have given this game a much higher score if it supported split-screen multiplayer and was either exempt from the online subscription fee or was a $40 game.    … Expand
  28. Winko
    Oct 21, 2017
    7
    Good:
    - Campaign: Levels have a lot more variety than expected, especially considering how much emphasis is put on the multiplayer modes. The weapon specific missions act as great tutorials for the wide array of weapons and maps are usually tailored nicely to suit the gun being used.
    - There is a wide range of weapons, sub weapons, and super abilities that all feel great to use in their    Good:
    - Campaign: Levels have a lot more variety than expected, especially considering how much emphasis is put on the multiplayer modes. The weapon specific missions act as great tutorials for the wide array of weapons and maps are usually tailored nicely to suit the gun being used.
    - There is a wide range of weapons, sub weapons, and super abilities that all feel great to use in their own respects and all have their own unique functionality. It all comes down to preference.
    - Despite a ton of small issues, the game is a very fun take on the shooter genre. Covering the map in paint and surfing as a squid is very enjoyable.
    - Salmon Run adds some nice variety to multiplayer
    - The soundtrack is catchy

    Mixed:
    - Bosses could have been a little better but it’s nice that they’re in there at all
    - Tons of cosmetic items but the scrub system is tedious for gathering power-ups you want and players who put massive amounts of time towards it have huge advantages in multiplayer modes

    Bad:
    - Can’t switch your load outs in the middle of a match and you have to leave match making completely to do so
    - Veteran players have massive advantages over newcomers; match making pits low level players against high level players much to often
    - You lose your super charge when you are killed
    - Players can’t leave match making while searching for a game; waiting times can be very long and the timer resets every time a player enters the lobby or turns off their game
    - Voice chat…
    - Players can’t create parties with their friends; chances are you’ll often be fighting against friends rather than with them
    - The multiplayer map preview plays everytime you start up the game and is unskippable
    - Map rotations are dumb and the fact that you can’t play Salmon Run whenever you want is stupid
    XXX    … Expand
  29. dislexicpotato
    Oct 2, 2018
    7
    There are a lot of things to love about Splatoon 2 like its bright colourful gorgeous graphics, its unique sound track and the tons of free dlc that come out for the game. The game overall is quite good but is VERY similar to its predecessor and feels more like an expansion than an actual new game. The weapons also arent very balanced.
  30. SimonD00
    Aug 5, 2019
    7
    FPS games have never been my thing, but there is something with splatoon 2 that just clicks for me. A huge part of that is problablty that the gameplay is unlike any other FPS ever (Exept of course the first splatoon) The combat is not just based around kills, though it does still help the team,but painting the ground is your main mission in this game. The game is a bit short on contentFPS games have never been my thing, but there is something with splatoon 2 that just clicks for me. A huge part of that is problablty that the gameplay is unlike any other FPS ever (Exept of course the first splatoon) The combat is not just based around kills, though it does still help the team,but painting the ground is your main mission in this game. The game is a bit short on content but that doesn't matter since you can easily put 100 hours in the onlie gamemodes that currently exists. The thing that drives this up to a 9 for me is that this game is just plain adictiv and fun, the combat is super fast and easy to learn but still hard to master and there is always alot of room for improvement in skill. Truely a great game… Expand
  31. dr0nzer
    Mar 18, 2018
    7
    It's definitely different, though with it being a meaty multiplayer title there are a lot of issues with balance, matches tend to be dominated by one side and it's rarely turns into a push/pull battle, modes are locked until you achieve a certain level or rank whilst others are time gated.... ermm okay nintendo.
    leveling is ridiculously slow and it never really feels rewarding, it's fun    It's definitely different, though with it being a meaty multiplayer title there are a lot of issues with balance, matches tend to be dominated by one side and it's rarely turns into a push/pull battle, modes are locked until you achieve a certain level or rank whilst others are time gated.... ermm okay nintendo.
    leveling is ridiculously slow and it never really feels rewarding, it's fun for the first few hours then it just feels like a grind fest. it's great for casual experience, as long as you don't mind playing with/against kids the majority of the time, as these are likely to be your allies/opponents.    … Expand
  32. klasflod
    Jan 11, 2018
    7
    The story of this game is surprisingly fun and the bosses are so freaking cool. The game as a whole though has trouble hooking me. I know a lot of people love it but I feel like the multiplayer somehow feels disconnected. I don't know, it feels impersonal. I don't know. Just not quuuite my cup of tea, i guess.
  33. vvmax
    May 30, 2018
    7
    Good game. Lots of fun and a great game to play online but the lack of local multiplayer and having to listen to the squid sisters every time you boot up the game makes it a perfect 7
  34. Kartchampion05
    Oct 7, 2018
    5
    Every person in this universe: Please can we have servers
    Nintendo: Servers? Screw that sh*t, you can give us $20 tho, nvm you have to give us $20 now.

    Oh, btw cloud saves aren't supported - Nintendo

    Besides the 2 second delay on multiplayer a good game, music is good, the art style is good, these delays just subtract so much from high level play.
  35. aljirik1992
    Oct 29, 2017
    7
    "Да ты не на меня одного! Ты разбрызгивай, разбрызгивай!" (Splatoon 2)

    Знаете чем вторая S действительно отличается от первой? Тем что она уже не уникальна! Мы получили хороший, щупальцевый замес на новую платформу от Нинки, со всё теми-же достоинствами и, что страшнее, недостатками. В игру завезли кооп-режим, более свежую картинку и новые лейки с плюхами. Расширили, подровняли,    "Да ты не на меня одного! Ты разбрызгивай, разбрызгивай!" (Splatoon 2)

    Знаете чем вторая S действительно отличается от первой? Тем что она уже не уникальна! Мы получили хороший, щупальцевый замес на новую платформу от Нинки, со всё теми-же достоинствами и, что страшнее, недостатками. В игру завезли кооп-режим, более свежую картинку и новые лейки с плюхами. Расширили, подровняли, заменили одну мини-игру на другую и дали на общее пользование. Для тех кто не знаком с первой частью это пять звёзд из две тысячи пятнадцатого, но сейчас-то уже 20/17! Выверенный стиль? Отшлифованная механика? Новые щупальца-пуськи на мониторах? Ничто из этого не пробивает орбиту, как это было в первый раз. И нет! Это - не "Раньше было лучше", это - "Где моя скидка за сей добротный, диэлсишный апдейт для первой части?". S2 отрабатывает стандартную программу, без неожиданностей, за что в общей палитре красок не хочется ругать, но и хвалить за это особого желания нет! Списывать недочёты уже нельзя, так как не ново, а накидывать звёзд за заслуги прошлой части - просто не красиво.    … Expand
  36. Brimbeeno
    Nov 12, 2017
    7
    Splatoon 2 really isn't much different than the first. The single player campaign isn't anything special and can be quite boring. The multiplayer mode is the main attraction and provides a fun, yet simple, experience. There really isn't that much variety as far as modes go and playing online with friends has a plethora of it's own issues. Splatoon has loads of different abilities unlockedSplatoon 2 really isn't much different than the first. The single player campaign isn't anything special and can be quite boring. The multiplayer mode is the main attraction and provides a fun, yet simple, experience. There really isn't that much variety as far as modes go and playing online with friends has a plethora of it's own issues. Splatoon has loads of different abilities unlocked via clothing and offers a nice variety of weapons. While the game is a fun distraction, I don't see how it's worth the $60 price tag. This is a $40 game at most.… Expand
  37. ImperialKnight
    Nov 24, 2017
    6
    A good game marred by tons of things that detract from the core gameplay experience.

    1) The single player "campaign". A super extended tutorial that is super boring. Tries to hide behind the fact that it's just a long tutorial with boring stages and uninspired bosses meant to force you to use and learn different weapons. 2) Walling the different weapons and customisations behind an    A good game marred by tons of things that detract from the core gameplay experience.

    1) The single player "campaign". A super extended tutorial that is super boring. Tries to hide behind the fact that it's just a long tutorial with boring stages and uninspired bosses meant to force you to use and learn different weapons.

    2) Walling the different weapons and customisations behind an initial grind. Forcing you to use the basic splatter for 4 levels is just meaningless. I actually felt like giving up before I hit level 4. You need to grind past it to get past it to get to the meat of the game. Why? And then it's more grind to get to ranked and league games. WHY?

    3) Off the Hook. Why are players forced to watch some stupid cut scene everyday to tell you the day's stage rotations. I can them RIGHT THERE IN THE MENU. Stop it. Let players skip the stupid cut scene.    … Expand
  38. UncleEd
    Oct 12, 2021
    6
    Splatoon 2 is a charming game crippled with several design choices. It is a sequel to Splatoon so I can’t really praise the novelty of the core gameplay. But for those who haven’t played the original game, the idea of a multiplayer shooter where bullets are replaced by ink is certainly refreshing. It is not a typical team deathmatch though and in the main game mode called turf war, you areSplatoon 2 is a charming game crippled with several design choices. It is a sequel to Splatoon so I can’t really praise the novelty of the core gameplay. But for those who haven’t played the original game, the idea of a multiplayer shooter where bullets are replaced by ink is certainly refreshing. It is not a typical team deathmatch though and in the main game mode called turf war, you are expected to cover the arena with paint. The other popular game mode is called salmon run, which is more of a teamplay mode and is as good as turf war. On paper, it should be a great game and the core game is pretty good. What ruined the experience for me though were some of the design decisions. Firstly, the game is a grindfest. There are many locked weapons, items which you can unlock by leveling up your character and it basically takes forever. Motion controls are not ideal, especially for a multiplayer shooter.

    Other than that, Splatoon 2 has a super cringe game hub where you can hang out, interact with people. Every time you launch the game, you have to spend a minute to skip through some dialogues between two characters, which I’ve found super annoying. Colorful makeup wears up fast and the game is not worth the price point.    … Expand
  39. ald234
    Dec 2, 2017
    5
    Being a fan of the original game on Wii U Splatoon 2 just feels like a letdown. The game runs at a 16Hz tickrate compared to the originals 25Hz, why the random downgrade? And they're trying to push COMPETITIVE for this game, that is a huge joke. Game gets super stale very quickly and thats coming from someone who has invested 1k+ hours into the Wii U iteration of the game, in its currentBeing a fan of the original game on Wii U Splatoon 2 just feels like a letdown. The game runs at a 16Hz tickrate compared to the originals 25Hz, why the random downgrade? And they're trying to push COMPETITIVE for this game, that is a huge joke. Game gets super stale very quickly and thats coming from someone who has invested 1k+ hours into the Wii U iteration of the game, in its current state the multiplayer is almost unplayable due to laggers and the singleplayer feels like training mode. My final words are to save your $60 and if you're interested in playing it still wait for a sale although Nintendo games rarely drop in price.… Expand
  40. IndieCrit
    Mar 30, 2018
    7
    Meh. That's how I can sum up the sequel to one of the most innovative games in recent years. Sure, it's a fine sequel, but It's like Call of Duty. It stays in the box, not trying anything new. I mean, it's fine, better graphics, more weapons, new mode.. but the story mode is better. Just don't expect much new out of Splatoon 2. As Captain Cuttlefish would say, it's just a few crab cakesMeh. That's how I can sum up the sequel to one of the most innovative games in recent years. Sure, it's a fine sequel, but It's like Call of Duty. It stays in the box, not trying anything new. I mean, it's fine, better graphics, more weapons, new mode.. but the story mode is better. Just don't expect much new out of Splatoon 2. As Captain Cuttlefish would say, it's just a few crab cakes short of a dozen. That failed.… Expand
  41. steve888
    Feb 17, 2018
    5
    Great game really fun. Deserves 8/10 at least except that dam intro clip that plays every time is so dam annoying. Honestly drives me crazy so i had to drop it to 5
  42. Pacross
    Apr 29, 2018
    5
    I didnt think the online could be worst than the first game, but oh boy how wrong i was!!! the game seems to run fine when it feels like it, and seeing how the "online" is the base of the experience, the experience for me was destroyed by it, i keep getting into incomplete teams, or the opponent teams losing a member by the start of the match, i keep getting the "unstable conecctionI didnt think the online could be worst than the first game, but oh boy how wrong i was!!! the game seems to run fine when it feels like it, and seeing how the "online" is the base of the experience, the experience for me was destroyed by it, i keep getting into incomplete teams, or the opponent teams losing a member by the start of the match, i keep getting the "unstable conecction warning and kicked out of the match all the time, is a disaster, all my friends keep struggling with these problems and the worst of all is that nintendo expects to charge for this horrible service.… Expand
  43. MrMuffin16
    May 17, 2018
    7
    No skip option. Bad Connection. Great game play. Its a good game but isn't good enough to be anywhere near perfect.
  44. MythicalEmbers
    Jun 17, 2018
    7
    Splatoon 2 is a great game but with bad matchmaking. I have to go against level 80s and I'm just level 30. Say its just a level but it means experience, you don't just die over and over and get to level 80. It's hard to have fun in a game where you have to keep losing and losing over high competitive play. Everything else is good though.
  45. Antidote4
    Jul 22, 2018
    7
    Great single player mode. Lots of content being poured out by Nintendo, including a full fledged single player DLC. The downsides to this game are the abysmal online server provided. Large amounts of latency, disconnects, awful matchmaking, and inability to easily group with friends make the fun online multiplayer into a frustrating experience.
  46. Ryaweasel
    Sep 27, 2018
    7
    If you loved the first game on Wii U, you'll love this one. If you don't know what Splatoon is, it's basically a shooter game, but with ink, This version has new hairstyles, weapons, stages and more, including a new mode called Salmon Run. What I hate about this game now though, is that you have to pay to play the main modes, Turf War and Ranked Battle. If you buy this game, unless youIf you loved the first game on Wii U, you'll love this one. If you don't know what Splatoon is, it's basically a shooter game, but with ink, This version has new hairstyles, weapons, stages and more, including a new mode called Salmon Run. What I hate about this game now though, is that you have to pay to play the main modes, Turf War and Ranked Battle. If you buy this game, unless you specifically bought it for Hero Mode, (Which I don't think anyone does?) be prepared to pay $20 a year to play this game, just warning ya. If this online service didn't exist, I would have given this game a solid 8. But since it does exist, I had to bump it down to a 7.… Expand
  47. Gregnator
    Nov 19, 2020
    5
    It's a funny game, but it gets repetitive very fast. Where as most fps/tps games have varying game modes to keep the game fresh, splatoon 2 doesn't.

    This game is aimed at a very specific audience, which I am seemingly not part of.
  48. happyPotato
    Nov 20, 2018
    7
    Splatoon 2 is a charming, poppy, and creative shooter contrasting ideas of shooting the enemy and maintaining territory. Although this game was fun for a while, I found serious flaws such as the startup waiting time, only certain modes being available at certain times, and repetitive game-play after some time. If you aren't into multiplayer shooters, I would stay away but if you are, thisSplatoon 2 is a charming, poppy, and creative shooter contrasting ideas of shooting the enemy and maintaining territory. Although this game was fun for a while, I found serious flaws such as the startup waiting time, only certain modes being available at certain times, and repetitive game-play after some time. If you aren't into multiplayer shooters, I would stay away but if you are, this will be a fantastic game for you.… Expand
  49. glitchboi
    Mar 22, 2020
    7
    Quite disappointing compared to the original Splatoon. I missed the co-op feature from the original. Nintendo doesn't support cloud saves for this game, which is honestly stupid because the Wii U had cloud saves for Splatoon.
    I bricked my switch by plugging in speakers to it (yeah it actually happened), sent it to Nintendo, and lost my Splatoon 2 data. All of those months of grinding are    Quite disappointing compared to the original Splatoon. I missed the co-op feature from the original. Nintendo doesn't support cloud saves for this game, which is honestly stupid because the Wii U had cloud saves for Splatoon.
    I bricked my switch by plugging in speakers to it (yeah it actually happened), sent it to Nintendo, and lost my Splatoon 2 data. All of those months of grinding are now gone.
    Maybe I'll change this review one day. So far it has: Good soundtrack, great graphics, and the enjoyable gameplay that is also stupid.    … Expand
  50. JT0718
    Jul 28, 2022
    6
    I'm an outlier, but this game just does not appeal to me. There are a lot of things that I really respect from the series like unique character designs, good music, and a pretty cool competitive community. I do think most people will really like this game and get a lot out of it, just not me personally.
  51. Tweva
    Jun 6, 2020
    7
    Controls aren’t the best plus the lack of local multiplayer is really disappointing. Interesting take on the shooter game though
  52. PsychoJoona
    May 8, 2021
    6
    Splatoon 2 is fun multiplayer shooter game.. pretty violent too... hahaha just kidding you shoot ink! But singleplayer is not fun and it can get REALLY boring sometimes by the lack of things to do outside of multiplayer, it just feels empty. But don't get me wrong I liked this game I played it over 200 hours! So you can get a kick out of this but don't expect something amazing... And theseSplatoon 2 is fun multiplayer shooter game.. pretty violent too... hahaha just kidding you shoot ink! But singleplayer is not fun and it can get REALLY boring sometimes by the lack of things to do outside of multiplayer, it just feels empty. But don't get me wrong I liked this game I played it over 200 hours! So you can get a kick out of this but don't expect something amazing... And these inklings are cute uwuwuwuwuwuwuwuwuwuwuuwuu lOL… Expand
  53. alan2pc
    Nov 2, 2020
    7
    I didn’t give this game much of a chance, but the motion controls weren’t for me, despite being a fan of competitive online gaming. I’m sticking to Tetris 99 and Rocket League. :)
  54. VixxEnChaos
    Oct 20, 2020
    7
    I love splatoon! In fact it’s one of my favorite games I’ve ever purchased. Though despite loving it I do have my criticisms on some of the things Nintendo has decided to do regarding splatoon 2, penalty when it comes to disconnecting from a game seems unfair to the player, octolings only have two hairstyles per gender while inklings have six per gender, it’d be nice to see a more verityI love splatoon! In fact it’s one of my favorite games I’ve ever purchased. Though despite loving it I do have my criticisms on some of the things Nintendo has decided to do regarding splatoon 2, penalty when it comes to disconnecting from a game seems unfair to the player, octolings only have two hairstyles per gender while inklings have six per gender, it’d be nice to see a more verity of hairstyles for octolings in the next game. More ink colors for regular turf battle seems like a nice idea especially for a colorful game such as splatoon.… Expand
  55. deycd
    Aug 13, 2021
    5
    El juego tien buenos gráficos, buena historia y jugabilidad. Sin embargo, el modo historia es corto, sin apenas rejugabilidad. De ahí para delante el juego es spam del Nintendo switch online. Por el precio del juego, el online ya podría ser gratis. El juegos es bueno, sí, pero si tienes switch online. Por eso, juegos como Asphalt 9, que son gratis, cumplen mejor su cometido.
  56. Willyboyou
    Dec 8, 2020
    7
    Splatoon 2 furthers the charming world of Splatoon with some great new content, but after I completed its lackluster base story mode and played it enough, I became pretty sick of its once fun game modes and combat.
  57. JohannLink
    Dec 19, 2020
    7
    Nintendo had everything, great music, gameplay, even the solo campaign for this game is great (imo not as good as the first one but that's ok), but jesus is the ranked experience bad, sometimes you're matched with people that don't even know what they are doing, and you have not one single way of talking to them, theyy REALLY need to upgrade their way of doing online, implementing voiceNintendo had everything, great music, gameplay, even the solo campaign for this game is great (imo not as good as the first one but that's ok), but jesus is the ranked experience bad, sometimes you're matched with people that don't even know what they are doing, and you have not one single way of talking to them, theyy REALLY need to upgrade their way of doing online, implementing voice chat in game would be a great start… Expand
  58. tomsonbary
    Dec 20, 2020
    7
    Good game, perfect for getting 7.
    ...............................................................
  59. Pabitto
    Jan 12, 2022
    6
    Game is awsome. But there is no way to turn off background music. That really sucks and destroy all fun from game :(
  60. Metabetalpha
    Mar 21, 2023
    5
    Very mixed opinoins, it was fine at launch but after like 1.5 years the tenta missiles appeared... and K 52.
    I was a jet squelcher main :') .

Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Best Switch Game of 2017
5
#5 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2017
8
#8 Most Shared Switch Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 100 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 94 out of 100
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 100
  3. Negative: 0 out of 100
  1. PLAY! Zine
    Oct 12, 2017
    85
    Though never fun in real life, spilling ink all around is even more fun in Splatoon 2 than it was in the first game. Teaming up with your squid friends has never been better. But even though some weird Nintendo elements can drag the fun to a stall, everywhere that Splatoon 2 shines makes it a deserving heir to the original.
    Read full review
  2. Game Rant
    Oct 8, 2017
    80
    Splatoon 2 builds on what its successor did so well, with a much larger base of assets that has allowed Nintendo to provide more to consumers right off the bat.
    Read full review
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Sep 29, 2017
    80
    Splatoon extended its content and has brought a funny storyline in the second episode. Both newcomers to the Switch and fans of the first game, this is a must-have for you. [Issue#277]
See all critic reviews »