Splatoon 3 has a brand-new mode to enjoy, one that only comes around in the second half of Splatfests – here’s what you need to know about Tricolor Turf War.
For the most part, Splatoon 3 is very similar to its predecessor. The satisfying Splatoon gameplay loop is still present, and even many of the guns make a triumphant return.
However, Nintendo’s latest shooter does at least have some key differences for players to enjoy. And one of the most exciting Splatoon 3 features is the addition of Tricolor Turf War, a brand-new way to play.
Tricolor Turf War Explained
Tricolor Turf War is very similar to regular Turf War modes, where players must paint the majority of a stage to win, except it is played with 3 teams.
The team that is currently in the lead of the Splatfest will have 4 players in the game, situated in the center of the stage. On either end of the arena, 2 players from each of the other teams will spawn and try to achieve victory over the leading team.
The first-place team must also try and protect the Ultra Signal from both sides. Should an attacking team take control of it, a member of Deep Cut will send in a Sprinkler of Doom that permanently remains in place to paint a portion of the stage.
Up to 2 Ultra Signals can be used in a single game and each one takes some time to secure once a player touches it.
How to Win Tricolor Turf War
To win the Tricolor Turf War, the first-place team must have the most Ink Points, meaning they hold the majority of the paint on the stage at the end of the match.
Attacking teams will win if just one of the smaller teams manages to out-ink the defending squad.
You’ll also get more Clout for winning, performing well, and attempting or securing Ultra Signals. Here’s everything you need to know about Clout in Splatoon 3.
Where to Play Tricolor Battles
To trigger a Tricolor Battle in Splatoon 3, teams that aren’t in first place can queue for a Tricolor Battle game in the second half of a Splatfest. This is the only time that the rare mode will be available, so don’t miss out on taking part in the fun!
However, queuing in this mode doesn’t always trigger the special Tricolor match and could just lead to a standard Turf War game.
For the leading team, queuing up for regular Splatfest Battles has a chance to put players into a Tricolor Battle instead, but there’s no way to queue separately for the mode.
Make sure to use the best weapons in Splatoon 3 to secure your victory! After all, if you’re seeing a Tricolor Turf War then your Splatfest is almost at an end.
We’ve also got a full breakdown on the best abilities in Splatoon 3 to help you get the edge over the competition.