You do not need Nintendo Switch Online for Splatoon Raiders if you only want to play the game solo. The full adventure can be played alone without a paid membership or a constant internet connection.
Nintendo Switch Online is required when you use online co-op, join another player through the internet or call for help during a raid. Local wireless multiplayer works without a membership, although every player needs their own Nintendo Switch 2 console and copy of the game.
Can You Play Splatoon Raiders Without Nintendo Switch Online?
Yes. Splatoon Raiders is described by Nintendo as a single-player-focused action game, and its main progression can be completed without Nintendo Switch Online.
You can explore the Spirhalite Islands, fight Salmonids, collect weapons and salvage, improve your tanks and move through the story on your own. Multiplayer is an additional option rather than a requirement.
An internet connection may still be needed to download software updates. However, you do not need to remain online while playing the solo content after the game is installed and updated.
When Is Nintendo Switch Online Required?
A paid Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for every mode that connects you with other players over the internet.
This includes creating or joining an online room, using the keyword system to find other players and responding to online help requests. Nintendo also requires an internet connection and the latest version of the game before online multiplayer can begin.
The Call for Help feature also counts as online play. It lets you invite up to two other players into a difficult raid, but it cannot be used without Nintendo Switch Online. Players who respond to someone else’s request can earn a help bonus after a successful raid.
Save Data Cloud is another feature tied to the membership. Your local save still works without Nintendo Switch Online, but cloud backups require an active subscription.
Does Local Wireless Require Nintendo Switch Online?
No. Local wireless play does not require a Nintendo Switch Online membership because the consoles connect directly instead of using online servers.
Splatoon Raiders supports two to four players through local wireless. Every participant needs a Nintendo Switch 2 console, and additional copies of the game are required.
Local wireless is not the same as local co-op on one system. Splatoon Raiders does not list split-screen or shared-console multiplayer. Two people cannot simply connect another controller and play together on the same Switch 2.
Why Is the Multiplayer Option Missing?
Multiplayer is not available immediately after starting the game.
You must complete the first three raids on Erpp Island before the multiplayer options unlock. After that, return to the hideout ship and interact with the radio. The radio lets you choose between local play and online play.
If the online option still does not work, check that the game has been updated and that your Nintendo Switch Online membership is active.
What Do You Need for Online Co-op?
To play Splatoon Raiders online, you need:
- A Nintendo Switch 2
- A copy of Splatoon Raiders
- An internet connection
- An active Nintendo Switch Online membership
- The latest game update
- The first three Erpp Island raids completed
Online rooms support two to four players. Hosts can also add a four-digit passcode when they want to limit the room to friends.
Final Answer
Nintendo Switch Online for Splatoon Raiders is only required for internet features. You can play the main story and complete raids alone without paying for a membership.
Local wireless also works without Nintendo Switch Online, but each player needs a separate Switch 2 and copy of the game. Online co-op, Call for Help and Save Data Cloud require a paid membership.
