Splatoon Raiders is a big release for Nintendo. On top of being a new entry for the famous property, it's the first spin-off game and the first to forgo the PvP multiplayer aspect. While the series has featured horde modes before, adapting an entire game around it is a much different experience.
It's easy to draw parallels to many other games based on what we know so far. Whether you're looking to get in the right headspace before it comes out or searching for something similar, here are my choices for the best games to play before Splatoon Raiders.
Donkey Kong Bananza
I'll freely admit this one's a stretch, but bear with me for a moment. Donkey Kong Bananza is all about digging down in search of treasure (i.e., bananas) and exploring new terrains. You upgrade yourself with skill points along the way, which isn't typical for most Nintendo properties.
There isn't another game on this list where digging deeper into more challenging areas is an important gameplay mechanic and story beat. Upgrading yourself and your gear is also the main gameplay loop for Splatoon Raiders. Helps that it has that Nintendo charm too. At the very least, it’s a must-play for those with a Nintendo Switch 2.
Monster Hunter Wilds
The Monster Hunter series excels by having mechanics that cater to multiple player interests. While they're fun to tackle on your own, surviving harsher threats alongside other players and basking in the spoils is something everybody loves.
Many of those same elements are present in Splatoon Raiders. Participating in raids with your friends and even sending (or answering) a temporary call for help will feel quite familiar to fans of Capcom's action-RPG series. Unlocking new outfits to style your character is another aspect sure to pique a Monster Hunter player's interest.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
While the Ratchet & Clank series is highlighted by a colorful cast of characters and humor, it's the wacky set of weapons that most remember. Whether you're shooting an oppressive amount of projectiles or turning enemies into sheep, everyone has their favorite tools they like to use in each game.
Splatoon Raiders looks like it will scratch a similar itch if you enjoy weapon variety. With over 100 weapons to discover and equippable gadgets to mix things up, you'll have plenty of opportunities to defeat enemies in a bombastic and entertaining manner.
Borderlands 4
Keeping in line with some of the previous reasoning, we come to Borderlands. The series popularized the looter shooter genre, where the constant search for new weapons and/or upgrades is a primary gameplay loop.
That same gameplay hook is a basis in Splatoon Raiders. Not only will you discover new weapons after defeating some enemies, but you can also find Gadget Parts to modify how your gadgets work. If constant experimenting and testing the limits of what your weapons can do is your jam, you're going to be in for a good time. Even more so if you like to do it all with a group of friends!
Splatoon 3
I suppose this one should go without saying. When it comes to game feel and aesthetics, you can't go wrong with the previous game. Playing Splatoon 3 will give you the best introduction to the basic movement and combat that the series is known for.
It's not all PvP modes either. Many see Splatoon Raiders as a successor of sorts to Splatoon 3's horde-based Salmon Run Next Wave mode. The third entry is also where the members of Deep Cut were introduced, who accompany you in Splatoon Raiders.
If you're in the mood for some other games with zany characters, check out our list of the best Rayman games to play before Rayman Legends Retold comes out.
