The Splatoon 2 Map Rotation can be determined by looking at the schedule displayed via the Nintendo Switch App, under Splatoon 2. But understanding the map rotation and how this change in stages impacts the game is a big undertaking. Here’s everything you need to know.
Splatoon 2 Map Rotation: Schedule
Unlike its predecessor on the Wii U, the maps for Splatoon 2 rotate fairly regularly: a two hour rotation instead of a four hour one. The game modes are on the same timetable. Meaning every two hours the maps and modes update. Both these elements are staggered across the three game modes: League Battle, Regular Battle, and Ranked Battle. This means at any given time there are different maps for each of the three modes, respectively.
Splatoon 2 Map Rotation: Maps
Below are the maps in rotation:
- Musselforge Fitness
- Arowana Mall
- Starfish Mainstage
- Humpback Pump Track
- Inkblot Art Academy
- New Albacore Hotel
- Piranha Pit
- The Reef
- Camp Triggerfish
- Ancho-V Games
- Blackbelly Skatepark
- Manta Maria
- Kelp Dome
- Wahoo World
- Snapper Canal
- Goby Arena
- Mako Mart
- Port Mackerel
- Sturgeon Shipyard
- Shellendorf Institute
- Walleye Warehouse
- Moray Towers
- Note: Shifty Station is not in rotation. As of writing this, it’s a map that’s only used for Splatfest.
Splatoon 2 Map Rotation: How It Affects Strategy
While some players might main a weapon for everything across the board, most have a few weapons in rotation dependent on the circumstances. Others may go next level and have an ideal weapon for each mode and stage, this would be an impressive feat considering the amount of combinations possible.
Generally speaking, you’ll want to consider the mode and stage when selecting a weapon: making sure to be mindful of its special. For instance, Nintendo’s official Splatoon 2 guide recommends the curling bomb special for turf wars at humpback pump track, because the stage’s curves and compact passageways make it perfect for quick, sneaky coverage/attack.
In Ranked Battle (Splat Zones), I find having the tenta missiles special to be the most helpful. Especially when you’re battling on a stage notorious for squatting snipers such as Snapper Canal and Humpback Pump Track. Targeting them will the tenta missiles will either result in a kill or force them to move. When they move out of the way to avoid death that’s your opening to quickly ink the zone or go for a direct kill.
When developing strategy specific to a map/mode you’ll want to consider the following:
- What strategy do your opponents use that’s rendering you powerless? (Identify their tactics)
- How can you combat it? (Generate an idea)
- What weapon/special can help you execute that idea that? (Select/test weapons)
