Massive Splatoon Update Next Week Adds Modes, Weapons, Increased Level Cap and More

Written by Brandon Hofer on July 30, 2015

News: Nintendo has revealed that a new update will hit Splatoon next week on August 5 that will bring a new content to their newest IP.

Nintendo has revealed that a new update is on the way for Splatoon next week. This new update brings a large amount of new content to the game, including two new matchmaking modes, new weapon types, an increase to the game’s level cap and more than 40 pieces of new gear.

The new update introduces Squad Battle and Private Battle matchmaking options. In Squad Battle, players can participate in Ranked Battle rule sets with friends, rather than being teamed up with other players through a random selection. After a player creates a squad, friends can be recruited to form a team of two to four Inklings. Friends will always play together on the same team and battle against other squads at random.

In Private Battle, friends can splat it up in private, customizable matches. Two to eight friends can battle together by selecting their favorite map, mode and weapons. The number of participants ranges from 1v1 to 4v4, but teams don't have to be even: If the host chooses, he or she can select a 1v4, 1v2, or any other combination of players.

With this new update also comes an increased level cap in both Regular Battle and Ranked Battle modes. After downloading the software update, players will be able to reach level 50 (raised from level 20) and rank S and S+ (both higher than A+).

Two new weapon types will be available with the update, adding a new layer of strategy to the game. The bucket-like Slosher weapons hurl ink straight ahead at an impressive range. By adjusting the angle, these new weapons can be used to splat opponents who are up high or even on the other side of a wall. With the Gatling-style Splatling, players can charge blasts of all-powerful ink. A maximum charge unleashes the full potential of this particular weapon type. In addition to the new weapons, more than 40 pieces of gear, including everything from a leather jacket to a sushi-chef costume, are coming to the various in-game shops in Splatoon.

Despite its size and scope, this August update is not the end of the “splat-acular” free content coming to Splatoon. Following this update, more content will continually roll out through the rest of the summer and fall, including the Rainmaker Ranked Battle mode, additional maps and new weapons. More details about these additions will be revealed in the future.

Have you picked up Splatoon yet? If not, do you plan on picking it up? Tell us what you think below.