What Is The Best Weapon In Splatoon 3?

Splatoon 3, Nintendo’s vibrant and action-packed third-person shooter, has taken the gaming world by storm with its unique ink-based gameplay and competitive multiplayer modes.

With over 100 weapons to choose from, finding the absolute best weapon can feel overwhelming for both newcomers and veterans alike.

Each weapon offers distinct advantages, movement styles, and special abilities that can dramatically change your gameplay experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the Splatoon 3 arsenal to help you discover which weapons truly stand above the rest in the current meta.

Key Takeaways

• Weapon Selection Matters: Your chosen weapon significantly impacts your role on the team and overall gameplay style
• No Single “Best” Weapon Exists: The most effective weapon depends on your personal playstyle, the game mode, and the current map rotation
• Meta Weapons Change: Regular updates and balance patches mean top-tier weapons shift over time
• Weapon Classes Have Unique Roles: Understanding each weapon class’s strengths and weaknesses is essential for team success
• Main, Sub, and Special Combinations: The best weapons feature powerful synergy between all three components
• Movement and Positioning: Superior weapons complement good movement techniques and strategic positioning
• Practice Is Essential: Even the strongest weapons require skill and experience to master
• Team Composition Matters: The best weapon for you may depend on what your teammates are using
• Different Maps Favor Different Weapons: Some weapons excel on open maps while others dominate in confined spaces
• Competitive Meta Differs: What works in casual play might not be optimal in high-level competitive matches

Understanding Weapon Classes in Splatoon 3

Before determining the “best” weapon, it’s crucial to understand the diverse weapon classes available in Splatoon 3. Each class offers unique gameplay mechanics and serves different roles on a team.

Splatoon 3 features 11 main weapon types, each with distinct characteristics that cater to different playstyles. Shooters provide balanced performance, while Rollers excel at covering turf quickly.

Chargers offer precision and range, making them ideal for eliminating opponents from a distance. Sloshers throw ink in an arc, allowing you to hit enemies hiding behind obstacles. Splatlings require charging but deliver devastating firepower when fully charged.

The game also introduces two new weapon classes not present in previous entries: Stringers and Splatanas. Stringers are bow-like weapons that fire three projectiles simultaneously, while Splatanas are sword-like weapons that can perform both close-range slashes and mid-range projectile attacks.

Understanding these weapon classes is the first step toward finding the perfect match for your playstyle. Each weapon class has a learning curve, with some being more beginner-friendly than others. The most effective players often master multiple weapon types to adapt to different situations.

The Meta Weapons: Current Top Picks

The “meta” in Splatoon 3 refers to the weapons most commonly used by top players due to their effectiveness in the current balance state of the game. While personal skill always matters more than weapon choice, certain weapons consistently outperform others at the highest levels of play.

Currently, the N-Zap ’85 stands as one of the most versatile and powerful weapons in the game. Its combination of rapid fire rate, good ink coverage, and the valuable Tacticooler special make it a staple in competitive play. The N-Zap excels at painting turf while still providing solid combat capabilities, allowing players to both support their team and secure eliminations.

The Splattershot is another top-tier choice that offers excellent balance between mobility, range, and damage output. With the recent buffs it received, combined with the powerful Trizooka special weapon, it has become a meta favorite. The Trizooka allows players to fire three powerful ink projectiles that can eliminate opponents from impressive distances.

For players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle, the Glooga Dualies provide exceptional damage with the ability to dodge-roll for positioning advantage. Meanwhile, the .52 Gal offers high damage per shot and decent range, making it effective in mid-range combat scenarios.

It’s important to note that the meta constantly evolves as balance patches are released, so what’s considered top-tier today might change in future updates.

Shooters: The Versatile Backbone

Shooters represent the most balanced and versatile weapon class in Splatoon 3, making them excellent choices for players of all skill levels. Their straightforward mechanics and balanced attributes provide a solid foundation for learning the game’s core concepts.

The Splattershot stands out as perhaps the most iconic and well-rounded shooter. It features good damage, decent range, and a comfortable fire rate that makes it accessible for beginners while still remaining viable at competitive levels. Its Suction Bomb sub-weapon helps control space, while the Trizooka special delivers powerful long-range eliminations.

For players seeking something with a bit more range, the Splattershot Pro offers increased damage and distance at the cost of fire rate. The Forge Splattershot Pro variant particularly shines with its kit combining Suction Bombs and the Booyah Bomb special, making it a formidable option for controlling objectives.

The N-Zap ’85 deserves special mention for its outstanding team support capabilities. While its damage output is slightly lower than other shooters, its excellent fire rate and ink efficiency make it exceptional for covering turf. Combined with the Tacticooler special that provides buffs to the entire team, the N-Zap ’85 has earned its place as one of the most valuable support weapons in the current meta.

For players who prioritize pure mobility, the Sploosh-o-matic offers unmatched close-range damage with the trade-off of minimal range. This weapon rewards aggressive flanking playstyles but requires excellent positioning to be effective.

Chargers: Masters of Range and Precision

Chargers represent the sniper class of Splatoon 3, offering unparalleled range and one-shot elimination potential. While they have a steeper learning curve than most weapon types, mastering a charger can make you one of the most feared players on the battlefield.

The E-liter 4K stands as the ultimate long-range weapon, boasting the furthest reach of any charger in the game. This power comes with significant trade-offs, including slower charging time and reduced mobility, but in the hands of a skilled player, the E-liter can control entire sections of the map from a safe distance.

For those seeking a more balanced charger experience, the standard Splat Charger offers a good compromise between range, charge time, and mobility. Its scoped variant, the Splatterscope, trades some mobility for improved accuracy at distance, making it ideal for players with steady aim.

The Snipewriter 5H has emerged as one of the most interesting additions to the charger family in Splatoon 3. Unlike traditional chargers, it can store its charge for a brief period, allowing for more flexible positioning. This unique mechanic, combined with its reasonable charge time and good ink efficiency, has made it particularly popular among charger enthusiasts.

While chargers typically serve as backline support, the Bamboozler Mk I offers a more aggressive option with its extremely quick charge time at the cost of requiring multiple hits for eliminations. This makes it suitable for players who want charger-like precision with more frontline presence.

Dualies: Mobility and Combat Prowess

Dualies represent one of the most dynamic weapon classes in Splatoon 3, defined by their unique dodge-roll mechanics that provide unmatched mobility during combat. These weapons excel in one-on-one engagements and reward players with quick reflexes.

The Splat Dualies offer a well-rounded introduction to the class, with balanced damage, fire rate, and range. Their dodge-roll allows you to quickly reposition during firefights, making them excellent for players who enjoy an aggressive but tactical approach to combat. The Enperry Splat Dualies variant has become particularly popular due to its Curling Bomb sub-weapon that creates paths for quick advances.

For players who prioritize raw damage output, the Glooga Dualies deliver impressive power, especially immediately after a dodge-roll when they briefly fire at an increased rate. This makes them exceptionally lethal in skilled hands, though they require precise timing to maximize their potential.

The Dualie Squelchers provide the longest range of any dualie weapon, allowing for more defensive play while still benefiting from the dodge-roll mobility. This makes them an excellent choice for players who prefer to maintain some distance while still having the option to engage aggressively when opportunities arise.

What makes dualies truly stand out is their ability to quickly adapt to changing battle conditions. The dodge-roll not only provides defensive mobility but can also be used offensively to close distance or reposition for better angles of attack. Mastering the timing and direction of your dodge-rolls is crucial to unlocking the full potential of these versatile weapons.

Rollers and Brushes: Area Control Specialists

Rollers and Brushes excel at rapidly covering territory with ink while offering unique movement options and close-range combat potential. These weapons are particularly effective in Turf War mode, where covering ground is the primary objective.

The Splat Roller remains one of the most iconic weapons in the Splatoon series, offering excellent ink coverage when rolled along the ground and a powerful vertical flick for mid-range combat. The Krak-On Splat Roller variant pairs well with the Squid Beakon sub-weapon, allowing for strategic spawn points that can change the flow of battle.

For players who value speed above all else, the Inkbrush provides unmatched mobility while swimming through ink and rapid swinging attacks. While its damage output is lower than other options, its ability to quickly claim territory and escape from dangerous situations makes it a valuable asset for objective-focused play.

The Carbon Roller offers a lighter, faster alternative to the standard roller, trading some damage and coverage for improved swing speed. This makes it better suited for combat-oriented playstyles while still maintaining good turf control capabilities.

What makes rollers and brushes particularly effective is their dual-mode functionality. Rolling or brushing along the ground covers turf efficiently, while flicking or swinging provides combat options. Learning when to use each mode is essential for maximizing these weapons’ potential.

Special Weapons: Game-Changing Power

While main weapons define your moment-to-moment gameplay, special weapons can completely shift the momentum of a match. Some weapons are considered top-tier largely because of the special weapon they’re paired with.

The Trizooka has emerged as one of the most powerful specials in Splatoon 3. This upgraded version of the classic Inkzooka from the original game fires three spiraling projectiles with each shot, allowing for up to three volleys per activation.

A direct hit from any of these projectiles results in an elimination, making it exceptionally lethal in skilled hands. Weapons featuring this special, like the Splattershot, have risen in popularity partially due to this powerful ability.

The Tacticooler represents the premier support special, providing speed, ink recovery, and respawn time buffs to your entire team. This makes weapons like the N-Zap ’85 invaluable in coordinated team play, as the buffs can significantly impact your team’s overall effectiveness.

For defensive play, the Big Bubbler creates a large protective dome that blocks enemy ink, securing areas for your team to safely advance or hold objectives. This special pairs well with backline weapons that need protection while providing support fire.

The Wave Breaker offers excellent utility by sending out waves that both reveal and damage opponents within its radius. This special is particularly effective in modes like Splat Zones or Tower Control, where denying space to opponents is crucial.

What makes special weapons so important is their strategic timing. Using the right special at the critical moment can secure objectives, save teammates, or turn a losing battle into a victory. The best weapons often feature specials that complement their primary function while offering utility that addresses their weaknesses.

Sub Weapons: Tactical Versatility

Sub weapons provide tactical options that complement your main weapon’s capabilities, often addressing weaknesses or enhancing strengths. The right sub weapon can dramatically increase a weapon’s effectiveness in specific situations.

Suction Bombs offer excellent zone control, sticking to surfaces and exploding after a delay. They’re particularly effective for dislodging entrenched opponents or controlling chokepoints. Weapons paired with Suction Bombs, like the Splattershot, gain valuable utility for objective-based modes.

For aggressive players, Curling Bombs create paths of ink that allow for quick advances while potentially catching opponents off guard. Their ability to bounce off walls and roll along surfaces makes them versatile for both mobility and combat.

Torpedo sub weapons lock onto nearby opponents, providing tracking capabilities that can reveal hiding enemies. This makes them excellent reconnaissance tools when paired with aggressive weapons like the Neo Sploosh-o-matic.

Splash Walls create temporary barriers that block enemy ink, providing crucial protection for weapons with longer activation times, such as chargers or splatlings. This defensive utility can be the difference between surviving a push or being eliminated.

The synergy between main and sub weapons is essential for creating effective loadouts. The best weapons in Splatoon 3 often feature sub weapons that compensate for their main weapon’s weaknesses or enhance their strengths, creating a more complete package.

Weapon Selection Based on Game Mode

The “best weapon” often varies depending on the game mode you’re playing, as different objectives favor different weapon attributes and strategies.

In Turf War, weapons with excellent painting capabilities like the N-Zap ’85, Sploosh-o-matic, and various rollers excel at covering ground quickly. The ability to rapidly claim territory is paramount, making ink efficiency and coverage more valuable than pure combat prowess.

For Splat Zones, weapons that can effectively control space through consistent fire or powerful sub weapons gain value. The Splattershot Pro and .52 Gal shine here due to their ability to maintain pressure on objectives while threatening eliminations.

Tower Control favors weapons that can either clear the tower effectively or provide support from range. Blasters like the Range Blaster excel at dislodging opponents from the tower, while chargers can eliminate tower riders from safe distances.

In Rainmaker, mobility and path-clearing become crucial. Weapons with Curling Bombs or other path-creating abilities, combined with good combat capabilities for protecting the Rainmaker carrier, often perform best. The Enperry Splat Dualies have proven particularly effective in this mode.

Clam Blitz requires a mix of mobility for collecting clams and combat strength for both offense and defense. Versatile weapons like the Splattershot and N-Zap ’85 tend to perform well due to their balanced attributes.

Understanding how your weapon’s strengths align with a mode’s objectives is crucial for optimal performance. The most effective players often maintain different weapon loadouts for different modes rather than trying to find a single weapon that works for everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the single best weapon in Splatoon 3?

There isn’t a single “best” weapon that dominates in all situations. Currently, the N-Zap ’85, Splattershot, and .52 Gal are considered top-tier due to their versatility and strong kits, but the best weapon ultimately depends on your playstyle and the specific mode you’re playing.

What’s the best weapon for beginners?

The Splattershot or Splattershot Jr. are excellent starting weapons due to their balanced attributes and forgiving mechanics. They’re easy to use while still being effective, making them perfect for learning the game’s fundamentals.

Do weapon stats matter more than player skill?

No, player skill is always more important than weapon choice. A highly skilled player using a “weaker” weapon will consistently outperform a less skilled player using a “meta” weapon.

How often does the weapon meta change?

The meta typically shifts with each major balance patch, which occurs every few months. These updates adjust weapon performance, sometimes dramatically changing which weapons are considered top-tier.

What makes a weapon “meta” in Splatoon 3?

Meta weapons typically feature excellent ink efficiency, good damage output, and valuable special weapons that synergize well with current competitive strategies. They often excel in multiple aspects rather than specializing in just one.

Are DLC weapons better than base game weapons?

Not necessarily. While DLC weapons offer new options, they’re designed to be balanced with existing weapons rather than providing power advantages. Some DLC weapons have entered the meta, but many base game weapons remain top choices.

What’s more important: main, sub, or special weapon?

All three components matter, but their importance varies by playstyle. For support players, specials often matter most. For aggressive players, the main weapon’s performance is typically most crucial. The best weapons feature strong synergy between all three elements.

Can I reach high ranks with any weapon?

Yes, players have reached X Rank (the highest competitive rank) with virtually every weapon in the game. While some weapons may make the climb easier, mastery of any weapon can lead to competitive success.

What weapon has the highest elimination potential?

Chargers like the E-liter 4K have the highest one-shot elimination potential, while weapons like the Glooga Dualies and .52 Gal offer the fastest time-to-splat in direct combat situations.

Should I stick with one weapon or learn multiple?

Learning multiple weapons provides flexibility and helps you understand different playstyles, making you more adaptable. However, mastering one weapon completely can also be a valid strategy for competitive success.