Nintendo has just rolled out Splatoon 3 Version 10.1.0 for both the Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2. This update went live on September 3, 2025, and brings with it a range of weapon adjustments, balance changes, and tweaks to multiplayer that will shake up how players approach matches. Below is a detailed look at everything included in this update.
Key Highlights of Version 10.1.0
- Adjustments to multiple main weapons to emphasize their unique playstyles.
- Reworked special weapons like Ink Storm, Zipcaster, and Ink Vac for broader tactical use.
- Changes to special weapon point requirements, altering how frequently certain specials can be deployed.
- Preparations for the next update, which will focus directly on battle balance refinements.
Main Weapon Adjustments
Nintendo’s main goal with this patch was to make each weapon type stand out more clearly. Here’s how major weapons were tuned:
- Splash-o-matic / Neo Splash-o-matic / GCK-O
- Shots now travel farther and faster (+3%).
- However, ink coverage from droplets has been slightly reduced (-3%).
- Impact: Rewards players who rely on accuracy, but less effective for passive inking playstyles.
- .52 Gal / .52 Gal Deco
- Dramatically faster shot speed (+39%).
- Increased ink consumption (+15%).
- Impact: Stronger in short bursts of aggression, but harder to sustain long engagements.
- Splat Brella / Sorella Brella / Order Brella Replica
- Wider ink spread both on impact and with droplets.
- Adjusted spread for broader area coverage.
- Impact: Better for supporting allies and area control, but forces closer combat in 1v1 fights.
- Splattershot Nova / Annaki Splattershot Nova
- Reduced ground scatter (-18%), making shots more precise.
- Clash Blaster / Clash Blaster Neo
- Increased droplet ink radius (+13%).
- Douser Dualies FF / Custom Douser Dualies FF
- Faster fire rate both before (+33%) and after Dodge Rolls (+38%).
- Recycled Brella 24 Mk I & Mk II
- Canopy durability reduced: -33% before launch, -20% after launch.
Special Weapon Changes
Several specials received important updates, shifting how they’ll be used in battle:
- Zipcaster
- Explosion radius at landing (45.0 damage zone) expanded by +9%.
- Ink Vac
- Can now absorb more opponent ink.
- Maximum ink-shot explosion radius increased by +10%.
- Ink Storm
- Area of effect expanded by +18%, giving it greater utility in flushing out enemies and supporting pushes.
Special Weapon Point Adjustments
Nintendo also rebalanced how quickly certain specials can be charged. Some weapons now require fewer points, while others cost more:
| Weapon | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Roller ANG-L | 180 | 170 |
| Big Swig Roller / Express | 190 | 180 |
| Cometz Octobrush | 200 | 190 |
| Bamboozler 14 Mk II | 200 | 190 |
| Custom Explosher | 200 | 190 |
| Nautilus 79 | 210 | 200 |
| Custom Dualie Squelchers | 210 | 200 |
| Tenta Brella CRE-M | 190 | 180 |
| Painbrush BRN-Z | 180 | 190 |
| Mini Splatling RTL-R | 190 | 200 |
| Splat Brella / Order Brella Replica | 200 | 210 |
| Sorella Brella | 190 | 210 |
| REEF-LUX 450 MIL-K | 200 | 210 |
Nintendo explained that these changes were guided by feedback from the Splatlands Collection and player performance trends. The updates aim to:
- Highlight each weapon’s core identity, not just raw strength.
- Ensure special weapons are used strategically without overwhelming frequency.
- Smooth out weaknesses in underused weapons, making them more viable.
How to Update Splatoon 3
To play online, all players must install Version 10.1.0. Updating is simple:
- From the HOME Menu, highlight Splatoon 3.
- Press the + or – button.
- Select Software Update → Via the Internet.
- Ensure your console is connected to Wi-Fi and has enough storage.
The September 2025 update for Splatoon 3 makes small but meaningful adjustments that reward precision, encourage teamwork, and rebalance how specials are used. Competitive players will want to experiment with the reworked .52 Gal, Brella, and Splash-o-matic, while support players may find new opportunities with the buffed Ink Storm and Ink Vac.
With the promise of further balance changes on the horizon and a new spin-off in development, Splatoon fans have plenty to look forward to as the franchise continues to evolve.
