Splatoon 2 is a third-person shooter in which players control characters known as Inklings and Octolings, using colored ink as ammunition. Ink is also utilized to cover the ground or any paintable surface. Inklings and Octolings can morph into humanoid or kid forms. The sequel introduces new standard, sub, and special weapons, including dual-wield pistols called dualies that enable the player to perform dodge rolls. It features the standard Turf War mode for regular battles, where two four-player teams have three minutes to cover the most turf with their color of ink.
New weapons have been added, including the dual-wielding Splat Dualies, complete with a new Dodge Roll move. Mainstays like the Splat Roller and Splat Charger have also been remixed to include new gameplay mechanics and brand-new special weapons.
For the first time in the series, players can compete in local multiplayer Turf War battles, whether in TV mode or on-the-go in handheld or tabletop modes. Online battles also make a return.