Splatoon Raiders Launches Exclusively on Switch 2: How the New Co-Op Shooter Changes Controller Recommendations
Splatoon Raiders Launches Exclusively on Switch 2: How the New Co-Op Shooter Changes Controller Recommendations
By Funlab Staff | August 19, 2026
TL;DR: Splatoon Raiders launched exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 29, 2026, according to Nintendo's official announcement. The new action-shooter in the Splatoon universe emphasizes co-op treasure hunting and wave-based combat, which places specific demands on controllers: responsive analog sticks for ink-splatting accuracy, reliable shoulder buttons for sub-weapon use, and optional motion controls for precision aiming. Players who want a competitive edge should consider a controller with Hall effect sticks and customizable button mapping.
What Is Splatoon Raiders?
Splatoon Raiders is a new action-shooter set in the Splatoon universe, and it launched exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 29, 2026. Nintendo's official announcement describes it as an "ink-flinging treasure hunt" where players "splat waves of foes" in co-op missions. The game is available exclusively on the Switch 2, meaning it takes advantage of the console's improved hardware performance and enhanced controller features.
The game represents a departure from the mainline Splatoon titles, which focus on competitive multiplayer turf wars. Splatoon Raiders instead emphasizes cooperative gameplay, with teams of players working together to complete objectives, defeat waves of enemies, and collect treasure. This shift in gameplay focus has implications for controller recommendations, because co-op shooters typically require different input patterns than competitive ones.
According to Nintendo's announcement, the game supports both handheld and docked play, which means players can use Joy-Con controllers, the Switch 2 Pro Controller, or third-party alternatives. The game also supports motion controls, which are a hallmark of the Splatoon series and allow players to aim by tilting the controller.
Controller Demands of Splatoon Raiders
Splatoon Raiders places three specific demands on controllers: analog stick precision, shoulder button responsiveness, and motion control support. The game's ink-splatting combat requires players to aim accurately at enemies while moving, which means analog sticks need to have low dead zones and high precision. The official announcement emphasizes "splat waves of foes," indicating that combat encounters involve large groups of enemies that require rapid target switching.
Shoulder buttons are equally important because Splatoon Raiders uses them for sub-weapons and special abilities. In the mainline Splatoon games, the right shoulder button (R) is used for sub-weapons, while the left shoulder button (L) is used for map navigation. Splatoon Raiders likely follows a similar control scheme, which means players need shoulder buttons that register consistently under rapid, repeated presses.
Third-party controllers vary significantly in analog stick quality and shoulder button design. Controllers with Hall effect sticks, which use magnetic sensors instead of physical contact, offer lower dead zones and longer lifespans than traditional potentiometer-based sticks. This makes them particularly well-suited for a game like Splatoon Raiders, where precise aiming is essential and rapid stick movements are common.
Motion Controls: Essential or Optional?
Motion controls have been a defining feature of the Splatoon series since the original game launched on Wii U in 2015. Splatoon Raiders continues this tradition, and Nintendo's announcement confirms that motion controls are supported. The question for players is whether motion controls are essential for competitive play or merely an optional preference.
In the mainline Splatoon games, motion controls provide a significant aiming advantage over stick-only play. The gyroscopic sensors in the Joy-Con and Pro Controller allow for fine-grained aiming adjustments that are difficult to replicate with analog sticks alone. Competitive Splatoon players overwhelmingly use motion controls, and the same is likely to be true for Splatoon Raiders.
However, motion controls require a controller with reliable gyroscopic sensors. The Joy-Con controllers have built-in gyroscopes, as does the Switch 2 Pro Controller. Third-party controllers vary in their motion control implementation, and some budget options lack gyroscopes entirely. Players who want to use motion controls in Splatoon Raiders should verify that their controller of choice includes a gyroscope.
Players who prefer stick-only aiming will still be able to play Splatoon Raiders, but they may be at a disadvantage in higher-difficulty content. The game's co-op focus means that players can compensate for weaker aiming with better teamwork, but the game's wave-based combat suggests that individual performance matters for survival.
Co-Op Play and Controller Sharing
Splatoon Raiders is designed for co-op play, which means players need to consider how they will share controllers with friends and family. The game supports local multiplayer, according to Nintendo's announcement, which means multiple players can play on the same console using separate controllers.
For local co-op, the Joy-Con controllers are the most accessible option because each player can use a single Joy-Con in horizontal orientation. However, single Joy-Con play is not ideal for a game that requires precise aiming, because the smaller form factor and reduced button count make it harder to execute complex inputs. Players who want a better experience should consider using full-size controllers.
The FUNLAB Switch 2 Joy-Con Controller offers a full-size alternative to the standard Joy-Con, with a more ergonomic grip and larger buttons. This can be particularly useful for Splatoon Raiders, where players need to hold the controller for extended sessions and execute precise inputs under pressure. The controller is compatible with the Switch 2's motion control system, so players can use gyroscopic aiming without sacrificing comfort.
For players who prefer a traditional gamepad layout, the FUNLAB Switch Pro Controller provides a full-size controller with Hall effect sticks and responsive shoulder buttons. The Pro Controller form factor is well-suited for Splatoon Raiders because it offers a stable grip, consistent button placement, and reliable motion controls. Players who want to use motion controls for aiming will find the Pro Controller's gyroscope responsive and accurate.
Controller Comparison for Splatoon Raiders
Choosing the right controller for Splatoon Raiders depends on several factors, including play style, budget, and whether motion controls are a priority. The table below compares the key controller options for Switch 2 players.
| Controller | Motion Controls | Analog Stick Type | Best For | Approximate Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joy-Con (standard) | Yes | Potentiometer | Portable play, casual sessions | $79.99 (pair) |
| Switch 2 Pro Controller | Yes | Potentiometer | Docked play, motion aiming | $79.99 |
| FUNLAB Switch 2 Joy-Con | Yes | Hall effect | Ergonomic handheld play | Check retailer |
| FUNLAB Switch Pro Controller | Yes | Hall effect | Docked play, precision aiming | Check retailer |
Players who prioritize motion control aiming should choose a controller with a reliable gyroscope, which all four options above provide. Players who prioritize analog stick precision should choose a controller with Hall effect sticks, which offer lower dead zones and better longevity. The FUNLAB Switch Pro Controller combines both features, making it a strong choice for Splatoon Raiders players who want the best possible aiming performance.
Players who play primarily in handheld mode should consider the FUNLAB Switch 2 Joy-Con Controller, which provides a more substantial grip than the standard Joy-Con. The larger form factor reduces hand fatigue during extended sessions, which is important for a game that involves wave-based combat and extended play sessions.
For players who want to share controllers with friends, the FUNLAB Joy-Con Grip converts a pair of Joy-Con controllers into a traditional gamepad shape, providing a comfortable grip for players who prefer the standard Joy-Con but want a more substantial form factor. The grip is compatible with the standard Joy-Con and works well for Splatoon Raiders' co-op gameplay.
FAQ
When did Splatoon Raiders launch?
Splatoon Raiders launched exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 29, 2026, according to Nintendo's official announcement.
Does Splatoon Raiders support motion controls?
Yes. Splatoon Raiders supports motion controls, consistent with the Splatoon series' tradition of gyroscopic aiming. Players can use motion controls with the Joy-Con, Switch 2 Pro Controller, or third-party controllers that include gyroscopes.
Can I play Splatoon Raiders with a single Joy-Con?
Yes, the game supports local multiplayer with Joy-Con controllers, and each player can use a single Joy-Con. However, single Joy-Con play is less precise than full-size controllers, so players who want better aiming performance should use a full-size controller.
What controller is best for Splatoon Raiders?
The best controller depends on play style. Players who prioritize motion control aiming should choose a controller with a reliable gyroscope. Players who prioritize analog stick precision should choose a controller with Hall effect sticks. The FUNLAB Switch Pro Controller combines both features.
Is Splatoon Raiders available on the original Switch?
No. Splatoon Raiders is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, according to Nintendo's announcement. The game takes advantage of the Switch 2's improved hardware performance.