You know what? Splatoon is looking pretty great, and I can’t wait to try out the demo (which really sounds like a server stress test) in the next few days.
As part of a Nintendo Direct for the May release, Nintendo revealed a bunch of news:
Most importantly, a “global testfire” demo is available to download from the eShop right now, and it’ll feature working online play tomorrow from 11 p.m. to 12 a.m. EST, Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is to ensure the most people globally can play together, according to Nintendo.
I probably won’t be getting up that early to play Splatoon on Saturday, Nintendo, but I hope the rest of the world has fun!
Bucking the trend of most online shooters, the game won’t be asking you to buy a season pass for additional content in the months ahead; Nintendo’s rolling out a bunch for free:
Five Turf War stages will be available at launch, but Nintendo will continue to add free new stages throughout summer 2015. Additionally, Nintendo plans to continually expand the game with new weapons, battle modes and gear. A major game update event in August will add two additional matchmaking options, including the ability for friends to form four-person teams and search for other four-person teams to battle against. The second option lets eight friends join up to battle in four-on-four matches on any stage and with any rules they want. The August update will also deliver a new battle mode and additional gear for characters to wear.
Not bad.
This might be the most Nintendo thing about Splatoon, though:
Themed events called Splatfests will pose questions to players such as: Do you prefer dogs or cats? Players must choose and represent their side during online battles. Players who rank high enough can even get a valuable Super Sea Snail item to upgrade gear. Prepare for the first Splatfest, taking place on June 20.
Dogs, of course.
You can reach the author of this post at patrick.klepek@kotaku.com or on Twitter at @patrickklepek.