More than three years after its original release, Splatoon 3 has received an unexpected gameplay update. With version 11.0.0, Nintendo has integrated visible health bars into the game.
The change comes late in the shooter’s life cycle and has been met with mixed reactions within the community.
Splatoon 3 was released in September 2022 for the original Nintendo Switch. Since then, the title has been regularly updated with new content and balance adjustments. The addition of a fundamental interface change has surprised many players.
Visible health bars part of gameplay for the first time
According to the official patch notes, it is now possible to see an opponent’s remaining health points after they have been hit. Previously, damage status could only be determined by the amount of ink covering a character. This visual representation was long considered a deliberate design feature of the series.
In addition, the health bars of team members are now also displayed if they have taken damage. According to Nintendo, this is intended to make it easier to support teammates and track down wounded opponents, even when playing with unknown teammates.
Criticism of the break with the series concept
The community is primarily discussing whether the new display fits with the previous style of the series. From the beginning, Splatoon relied on an abstract damage display without classic health bars. Many fans see this as part of the series’ identity.
Another recurring point of criticism concerns the basic combat system. Since most weapons defeat opponents with just a few hits anyway, some players question the practical added value of the new display. The visual design of the health bars has also been criticized in some cases. There are currently no plans to include an option to disable the display.
Late change in the advanced life cycle
The timing of the update is causing additional discussion. Major gameplay changes of this kind are usually expected in the earlier stages of a game. The fact that Splatoon 3 is now receiving such a central adjustment years after its release is perceived as unusual by parts of the community.
Some voices point out that the official update phase of the game was already considered largely complete. Accordingly, the introduction of health bars is interpreted as a subsequent change of direction.
New “Aura Flow” feature complements update
In addition to health bars, version 11.0.0 also introduced the “Aura Flow” feature. This rewards particularly aggressive phases of play, such as quickly taking out multiple opponents, with a large ink burst. Players also receive temporary improvements such as increased movement speed and other status bonuses for 30 seconds.
This feature has also received mixed reviews. While some players welcome the added dynamism, others see it as a further shift in focus towards more direct combat.
Discussion about game orientation reignited
Splatoon was always designed as a mixture of shooter and territory control. The core of the gameplay is to cover as much area as possible with ink. Critics now argue that new mechanics such as Aura Flow and visible health bars further emphasize the competitive aspect.
Earlier design decisions, such as smaller maps, have already been discussed in this context. The current update has reignited this debate, with no clear consensus emerging.
FAQ
Visible health bars and the new Aura Flow feature have been added.
No, damage was only represented by the amount of ink.
There is currently no option to disable them.
A feature that rewards series of enemy KOs with bonus ink and temporary buffs.
Many fans see it as a break with the series’ previous design concept.
