Splatoon 3 is only two weeks away from releasing on Nintendo Switch, but now you have the chance to experience the game early with the Splatfest World Premiere demo. This free, limited-time demo is only happening today, giving all Switch owners some hands-on time ahead of the colorful team shooter’s release.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Splatfest demo, from start times to how to get involved.For more on the game, be sure to check out our roundup Everything you need to know about Splatoon 3.
What is the Splatfest World Premiere?
Splatfest World Premiere is a demo-slash-beta test of Splatoon 3. Players who download the demo now can explore Splatsville, the main central area of the game, and take part in a short tutorial explaining the basics of the game. Then, on August 27th, Nintendo will host the headliner: Splatoon 3’s first “Splatfest,” an in-game event where you can choose a team and fight for yours by participating in Turf Wars matches. Teams earn points.
When will the world premiere of Splatfest begin?
The Splatfest world premiere demo will begin on August 25th, but Splatfest itself will take place on Saturday, August 27th. In the Americas, the event will start at 9:00 AM PT (12:00 PM ET), last 12 hours, and end at 9:00 PM PT (12:00 AM ET).
Unlike Splatfests in previous Splatoon games, the World Premiere event will be split into two halves. During the first half of Splatfest (until 3pm PT), players will engage in traditional four-on-four turf battles. However, for the remainder of the event, you’ll be involved in the new Tricolor Turf War. Four players from the first team and two players from the second and third teams will play a three-way match.
How to join Splatfest?
To join the Splatfest world premiere, all you need to do is download Free demo client From the Nintendo eShop and log in during the event hours.
Do I need Nintendo Switch Online?
Since Splatfest is an online event, you will need Nintendo Switch Online Subscribe to participate. If you’re not already a member, Nintendo is offering a 7-day free trial to everyone who installs the demo.
After downloading the demo client, you will receive a free trial code via email. The code can be redeemed through the Nintendo eShop, but it will expire on August 31, so if you want to take advantage of the free trial, you’ll need to use it before then.
What are you doing at Splatfest?
In previous games, Splatfests traditionally required you to join one of two opposing sides and fight for supremacy. Splatoon 3 changes things a bit by giving you three different teams to choose from, but the basics are the same. Head over to the Splatfest terminal at Splatsville Plaza, choose the side you want to represent, and jump into an online match to earn points for your team.
For the Splatfest world premiere, Nintendo asked players to decide once and for all which is best: rock, paper, or scissors?
Well sorry – we’re so excited we’ll keep tweeting. How about that Splatfest world premiere! First, the idea of a 3-way Splatfest is exciting. and theme? A statistical exploration of the strengths of Rock vs. Paper vs. Scissors? We fainted. scientifically. pic.twitter.com/i4nMruxBKM
— Splatoon North America (@SplatoonNA) August 10, 2022
Remember, your Splatfest decision is final. Once you’ve chosen a side, you can’t switch teams, so think carefully before making your choice.
Once Splatfest begins, you can jump into Splatoon’s signature online mode: Turf War. Unlike typical online shooters, the goal of this mode is not to wipe out other teams, but to cover more of the map with ink. At the end of the three minutes, the team with the most turf wins the game.
Treehouse Live
Ahead of the world premiere of Splatfest, Nintendo aired Treehouse: A Live Stream featuring Splatoon 3 on August 25. The livestream offers a closer look at the game’s single-player mode, as well as several stages that will be shown during Saturday’s Splatfest. Nintendo also showed off new gameplay for Square Enix’s upcoming fantasy farming sim, Harvestella.
You can watch a replay of The Treehouse below: Live.
Splatoon 3 launches on Nintendo Switch on September 9th.You can save $11 with CNET’s game Exclusive Pre-Order Offer.
Nintendo is planning a variety of free updates after Splatoon 3’s release, including new levels, weapons, and modes. The company also teased a “major” paid DLC expansion that will feature Splatoon 2’s pop icons Pearl and Marina, although no other details have been announced.
