Squid-based ink-shooting action hits the Nintendo Switch this weekend as part of an early test, and you can participate if you own the new console.
Nintendo is planning to run a series of hour-long online multiplayer test sessions for its upcoming Switch game Splatoon 2, the sequel to one of the best games for the Wii U. Beginning March 24 and running through March 26, the publisher will turn on the servers for Splatoon 2 as part of its Global Testfire event. This will enable you to get a taste of the action for the competitive ink shooter where the goal is cover as much of the terrain in your team’s color as possible. But this will also help Nintendo understand the demand Splatoon 2 matches will have on its servers.
To participate in the test, you need to download the Splatoon Global Testfire demo from the Nintendo eShop service for free. It’s available now, and you should probably grab and install it now so that you’re ready for the first hour-long session on Friday.
Once you have the game on your Switch, you should connect to the internet and boot up the game during one of Nintendo’s tests. Here is when the company plans to have the servers running:
Friday
- Noon to 12:59 p.m. Pacific time
- 8 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. Pacific time
Saturday
- 4 a.m. to 4:59 a.m. Pacific time
- Noon to 12:59 p.m. Pacific time
- 8 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. Pacific time
Sunday
- 4 a.m. to 4:59 a.m. Pacific time
Keep in mind that, as part of these stress tests, Nintendo’s servers could collapse. So don’t let it surprise you if you can’t get online to actually play the game.
But beyond that, Nintendo is encouraging players to try the game in a variety of different settings. That includes playing on the TV, in tabletop mode, or as a portable. You should also try connecting to your home Wi-Fi or public Wi-Fi. I’m going to even try tethering my Switch to my smartphone.
And finally, you are free to capture and share your Splatoon 2 gameplay online if you want.