Nintendo has rolled out update 7.1.0 for Splatoon 3, which targets a wide range of bugs affecting different game modes like Side Order, while also refining Salmon Run and the upcoming Splatfest. Since its initial release in September 2022, Splatoon 3 has swiftly become one of the top-selling games on the Nintendo Switch. Not only did it claim the title of Japan's best-selling game in 2022, but within the first three months, it surpassed 10 million copies sold globally.

Approaching its second anniversary later in 2024, the success of Splatoon 3 can be attributed to Nintendo's continuous support for the title, evident through regular updates, community-driven events like Splatfests, and the introduction of premium content. Through DLC expansions, Splatoon 3 has introduced a roguelite mode named Side Order, reintroduced beloved features from previous franchise installments such as Inkopolis' hub world, and consistently delivered patches to address various issues.

On their support platform, Nintendo unveiled the specifics of Update 7.1.0, allowing Splatoon 3 players to download the latest patch for the online shooter. The primary focus of this update is rectifying persistent bugs affecting multiple aspects of Splatoon 3, particularly within the recent DLC, Side Order. For instance, issues within Side Order's Spire of Order, such as abrupt music stops, incorrect point calculations, and other anomalies, have been resolved. Notably, a bug reported by a Splatoon 3 player, where a communication error surfaced post-completion of the Side Order story, preventing the final cutscene from playing, has been fixed.

Besides bug fixes, the update introduces alterations to the popular cooperative Salmon Run mode, reducing the time for non-host players to retrieve Golden Eggs after depositing or throwing one. Additionally, the upcoming Splatoon 3 Splatfest event will feature a new track titled 'Suffer No Fools,' slated to play during Splatfest Battles and Tricolor Battles. Notably, this song will be available to all players at no extra cost, eliminating the need for paid DLC to enjoy the music.

Accompanying the music update, Nintendo has teased complimentary content for players engaging in the Splatoon 3 SpringFest event, including stylish pastel-colored sunglasses and nine fresh pairs of shoes. This special themed gear distribution follows a similar pattern to previous DLC releases, requiring players to check their SRL New Channels on the Switch to claim the content upon availability.

Splatoon 3 Update 7.1.0 Patch Notes

Changes to Splatfests

• A new song has been added for Splatfest Battles and Tricolor Battles.
  • This track will play for all players, regardless of DLC ownership.

Changes to Salmon Run

• The time for non-host players to pick up Golden Eggs after throwing or depositing one has been reduced.

This update brings a new musical addition to Splatfests.

The upcoming update, scheduled for mid-Fresh Season 2024, will introduce adjustments to battle mechanics.

Bug Fixes

• Player Controls Fixes
  • Resolved an issue with the Order Brella Replica's canopy, where ink displayed on it in relation to damage taken was inaccurate compared to the Splat Brella and Sorella Brella.
  • Fixed a problem in Clam Blitz mode that allowed rollers to swing at shorter intervals than normal by alternating between swinging the roller and executing the clam-throw action when no clam was held.

• Side Order Fixes
  • Addressed an issue where a communication error would occur after clearing the Side Order story, preventing players from viewing the final cutscene.
    • A feature to rewatch the cutscene has been added at the Spire of Order entrance.

  • Fixed a scenario where players lost control of their character after a specific cutscene within Side Order.
  • Rectified instances where in-game music stopped during continuous Side Order play.
  • Fixed a situation where the floor's music didn't play when closing the pause screen after pressing the + Button with precise timing upon entering a floor.
  • Solved an issue where players fell outside the stage despite being in a position to return after activating Broken-Armor Jump midair.
  • Ensured uniform jump height when leaping off a bounce pad.
  • Corrected discrepancies in the earned points displayed at the end of a run at the Spire of Order.
  • Eliminated issues like misaligned targeting marks and terrain clipping in Rotational.Floor.
  • Prevented scenarios where a Parallel Canon's interaction with an active inkrail caused excessive player displacement.
  • Rectified inconsistencies in earned badges based on X Rankings placements in Chill Season 2023.

• SplatNet 3 Fixes
  • Fixed an issue where the 'High Score!' display in Side Order Stats failed to update correctly.

• Other Fixes
  • Corrected a scenario where obtaining badges based on X Rankings placement was hindered in Chill Season 2023.
    • Players meeting the criteria for badges in Chill Season 2023 will automatically receive them upon connecting to the internet after updating.
    • Final rankings can be viewed on SplatNet 3.

  • Addressed an issue where pressing the Left Stick while interacting with Murch or Spyke for gear abilities prevented further actions.
  • Fixed an inability to alter the time limit when using the Random function to select a Tableturf Battle stage in multiplayer.