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Do you want to be the very best, like nobody ever was? You’re in luck, because Splatoon 3 gives you a brand new opportunity to do just that in its latest event: a Pokémon-themed Splatfest.
A Splatfest is a special event in Splatoon 3 where you choose one of three teams to join before jumping into a PvP bonanza. Last time you had to choose between Gear, Food and Fun when you were stranded on a desert island – a meager choice compared to what lies ahead. In the next Splatfest, you’ll have to choose between Fire, Water, and Grass-type Pokémon. Finally, years of playground arguments will be settled in the inky melting pot of splat-based conflict.
If you’re new to the classic Nintendo Switch team-based third-person shooter, this Pokémon Scarlet and Violet tie-in event gives you a great opportunity to get stuck in. Starting November 11 at 4pm PT / 12pm GMT / 10am ACT and ending November 13 at the same time, the event is packed with special rewards. You need to practice as many Splatoon 3 weapons as possible if you want to lead the chosen type to victory in November.
Your real test
There’s no denying it: this is a seriously strong contender to the greatest Splatfest topic of all time. Yes, Rock vs. scissors vs. Paper got off to a strong start as Splatoon 3’s inaugural Splatfest, and Chaos vs. Order will always remain iconic, but it must be said that Pokémon types make for a truly special Splatfest experience.
It’s telling that the Pokémon starter-type trifecta has remained unchanged all these years. While the Splatfest is clearly centered around the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet starters, the old Bulbasaur-Charmander-Squirtle conflict remains as alive today as it once was. These are ancient battles, fought by ancient soldiers.
Troopers who first reported as tweens on playgrounds are now full-time adults. Some are accountants, others are salespeople, and some, Arceus help them, are video game journalists. Despite staring into the course of 30, I will climb the hill and boldly declare that Bulbasaur is my perfect plant boy and grasses are the best.
The fact that Splatoon 3 is tapping into such an old and iconic debate for its second Splatfest says something about how the community is doing. Online multiplayer games from Final Fantasy 14 to Overwatch 2 live or die based on the quality of their community involvement. By staying stuck in this kind of controversial and deeply rooted Pokémon debate, Splatoon 3 shows that it is not only alive, but also thriving.