While Splatoon is lacking in a few features gamers have come to expect from the modern online shooter, there's no denying what it brings to the table is fresh, new, and exciting. The unique ink-squid mechanic opens new ways to move around and interact with the game environment, while the splash of...

+ Fun and unique gameplay ideas; + Quirky; bright and engaging world hub; + Simple progression system makes online addictive

- Not a lot of game modes; maps at launch; - Lack of voice chat will turn people off

As a 4-vs-4 team based shooter, when you come face to face with opponents, it's possible to take them out with weaponry, but Splatoon's Turf War mode, the game's only unranked mode, is largely about making a mess, and making more mess than your opponent does.

Over the years, there are certain genres that have found an affinity on Nintendo consoles, a comfort zone of fun and familiarity - racing games, platformers, puzzlers and the odd fighting game or two. One of the more popular arenas that Nintendo haven't explored as much are shooting games.

Splatoon is a pretty big deal. When it was revealed at E3 2014, it excited fans for being Nintendo's first foray into the online shooter genre. It's also the first new character based franchise from Nintendo's main EAD development teams since Pikmin was released on the Gamecube back in 2001.

Fun; flowing gameplay; Tons of customisation; There's nothing else like it

Lack of online options; Limited local multiplayer; Too much locked behind amiibo

We had little doubt Splatoon would deliver a great first impression. Chaotic, original and colourful, Nintendo's take on the shooter genre is fresh and innovative, and in spite of those who thought that Mario's company wasn't able to compete with other genre giants.

Nor is it a game that actively encourages you to take out the opposition. Sure, giving yourself a numerical advantage is never a bad thing, but the smarter players will focus on covering ground ahead of removing rivals from the equation.

Nintendo takes a chance with this odd, risky rethink of the arena shooter. Splatoon moves away from guns and grit, offering a shooter anyone of any age can enjoy. The game's single-player is an absolutely amazing puzzle platformer that deserves some expansion.

Splatoon is simultaneously proof that Nintendo can still deliver tremendously entertaining experiences outside of its usual wheelhouse, and an example of how even the most leaden genres can be twisted to new and delightfully creative ends.

The Wii U may be flagging, but it's slowly accumulated a decent roster of first party exclusives.

Unique gameplay; Fun; Accessible

Needs more variety

Splatoon is coming! Splatoon is coming! If you own a Nintendo Wii U or 3DS, and you haven't seen anything about Splatoon , well, you probably haven't turned it on in the past month.

Art and music kicks; and creates an energetic atmosphere of rowdy fun; Battle maps are well crafted for action-packed battles; Plenty of fun content beyond the multiplayer; from customizing your Inkling to a fun single-player campaign; A promising start to a great new IP

Matchmaking is questionable; though that may have been due to amount of players available pre-launch; Plenty of fun content beyond the multiplayer; from customizing your Inkling to a fun single-player campaign