By Tim Biggs
Nintendo's first stab at an online, team-based shooter stars kid-squid hybrids on a mission to cover as much of the map in their team's ink as possible.
Battles are hectic, endlessly replayable and designed so even the meekest competitor can contribute in a positive way by avoiding combat and painting. Transforming into a squid to sprint, hide and refill ink is brilliant.
Splatoon takes the conventions of the 4v4 online shooter and adds an inky twist.
Add a robust solo campaign, fast matchmaking and the constant lure of fresh weapons and clothes, and you have a seriously fun take on a previously inaccessible genre. One just hopes Nintendo follows through on its promise of frequent map and mode updates.
Splatoon is on Wii U, classified PG at an RRP of $79.95