Splatoon 3 Updates Ending Has People Looking for Splatoon 4 Release %v

Splatoon 3 Updates Ending Fuels Splatoon 4 Release Speculation Nintendo's announcement of ending regular updates for Splatoon 3 has reignited speculation about a potential Splatoon 4.

Nintendo Halts Regular Splatoon 3 Updates

Splatoon 4 Anticipation Mounts as an Era Concludes

Nintendo has officially announced the end of regular content updates for Splatoon 3. However, the game isn't entirely abandoned. Holiday events like Splatoween and Frosty Fest will continue, and the developers will still provide weapon adjustments and balance patches as needed. Monthly challenges and Big Run events will also persist for the foreseeable future.

The official 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 conclusion of Splatoon 3's Grand Festival event on September 16th. Nintendo released a commemorative video showcasing past Splatfest events and featuring the Deep Cut trio. The message from Nintendo was clear: "Thanks for holding down the Splatlands with us, it's been a blast!"

With Splatoon 3's two-year anniversary recently passed and active development winding down, rumors of a Splatoon 4 sequel are gaining momentum.

Intriguingly, some players believe they've spotted potential easter eggs or hints within the Grand Festival event, suggesting a new city setting for a future installment. One fan, commenting on images of a futuristic city within the game, speculated, "Doesn't look like Inkopolis. Perhaps the setting of Splatoon 4?" Others, however, remain unconvinced, arguing that the location is simply a variation of existing assets.

While there's no official confirmation of Splatoon 4, speculation has been rife throughout the year. Reports earlier this year suggested Nintendo had begun development on a new Splatoon title for the Switch. The Grand Festival event being the final major Splatfest adds fuel to the fire, leading many fans to believe a sequel is imminent.

Past Splatoon games have seen Final Fests influence their sequels, and Splatoon 3's final event could hint at a "Past, Present, or Future" theme for Splatoon 4. However, until Nintendo makes an official announcement, fans will have to remain patient.