Nintendo's announcement ending regular updates for Splatoon 3 has reignited speculation about a potential Splatoon 4.
Nintendo Halts Regular Splatoon 3 Updates
Splatoon 4 on the Horizon? The End of an Era Sparks Sequel Rumors
Nintendo has officially announced the end of regular content updates for Splatoon 3. However, the beloved shooter isn't entirely abandoned. Holiday events like Splatoween and Frosty Fest will continue, alongside ongoing monthly challenges, weapon adjustments, and balance patches as needed.
The Twitter (X) announcement stated: "After 2 INK-credible years of Splatoon 3, regular updates will come to a close. Don't worry! Splatoween, Frosty Fest, Spring Fest, and Summer Nights will continue with some returning themes! Updates for weapon adjustments will be released as needed. Big Run, Eggstra Work, and Monthly Challenges will continue for the time being."
This news follows the September 16th conclusion of Splatoon 3's Grand Festival, commemorated with a video showcasing past Splatfests and the Deep Cut trio's final performance. Nintendo's farewell message: "Thanks for holding down the Splatlands with us, it's been a blast!"Splatoon 3's two-year run has ended, and the cessation of active development has fueled rumors of a sequel, specifically Splatoon 4. Some players believe Grand Festival locations hinted at a new city in the next game, though others disagree, suggesting familiar settings.
Responses to Nintendo's announcement included fan speculation: "Doesn't look like Inkopolis. Perhaps the setting of Splatoon 4?" countered by "The second one is just Splatsville, same model from the opening train cutscene."
While unconfirmed, rumors of Splatoon 4's development have circulated for months, suggesting Nintendo's already begun work on a Switch sequel. The Grand Festival, as the final major Splatfest, further strengthens this belief, echoing past Final Fests' influence on subsequent sequels. The "Past, Present, or Future" theme of past Final Fests may offer clues to Splatoon 4's direction. However, official confirmation from Nintendo is still awaited.
