Nintendo’s latest Switch 2 exclusive, Splatoon Raiders, is enjoying an impressive launch, combining strong commercial performance with overwhelming player praise. Just days after release, the single-player spin-off has become the highest user-rated Nintendo-published game on Metacritic while also claiming the No. 1 spot on the UK physical software sales chart.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for the Splatoon franchise, which has traditionally focused on competitive multiplayer. With Splatoon Raiders, Nintendo opted for a story-driven adventure, and early reception suggests the experiment has resonated with fans.
Splatoon Raiders sets a new Nintendo record on Metacritic
According to Metacritic, Splatoon Raiders currently holds a 9.3 user score, making it the highest-rated Nintendo-published game by users in the site’s history.
The score places it ahead of critically acclaimed Nintendo titles including The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (9.2), Pokémon HeartGold & SoulSilver (9.1), The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (9.1), Xenoblade Chronicles (9.1), Super Mario Odyssey, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While its critic score sits at 81, player reviews have elevated it into rare territory, ranking among the highest user-rated games ever recorded on the platform.
The strong reception is especially notable because Splatoon Raiders is a completely different direction for the franchise, replacing the series’ multiplayer focus with a standalone single-player experience.
Nintendo’s new direction is paying off
The game’s launch success isn’t limited to user reviews. Splatoon Raiders debuted at No. 1 on the UK physical software sales chart for the week ending July 25, 2026, outperforming titles such as Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag Resynced and EA Sports FC 26.
The launch also helped strengthen Nintendo’s presence across the chart, with Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, Pokémon Pokopia, Mario Kart World, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and several other first-party releases remaining in the Top 20.
The combination of strong launch sales and exceptional user feedback suggests Nintendo’s decision to expand the Splatoon universe beyond multiplayer has struck a chord with players.
While long-term sales will ultimately determine the game’s commercial impact, its early performance indicates that there is significant demand for story-focused experiences within one of Nintendo’s most popular modern franchises.
