For the first time, take Turf War battles on-the-go via local multiplayer in portable play styles. You can also compete in frenetic online matches like before.

Two years have passed since the release of Splatoon, and two years have also passed in the game world, leading to an evolution in fashion trends and new styles of weapons and gear. Staying fresh never looked so good.

If you’re not among the roughly 8 million owners worldwide that have already jumped into the deep end to enjoy the ink-splattering fun of Splatoon 2 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo has a whale of a deal to help you test the waters.

Players with an internet connection and a Nintendo Switch Online membership can join in the Splatoon 2 Special Demo between 7 a.m. PT on Tuesday, March 19, and 6:59 a.m. PT on Monday, March 25.

That means you’ll get to check out 4-on-4 Turf War battles as well as Salmon Run, League Battle and Ranked Battle modes online with your friends and other players who own the full game. Cover the turf with your team’s colorful ink, customize your look with different weapons and apparel, and splat your enemies in an all-out ink-stravaganza!

The Splatoon 2 Special Demo is available starting today in Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch. After downloading it, you’ll receive an email with a Nintendo eShop code to activate a seven-day free trial*** for Nintendo Switch Online. You can use the code even if you’ve had a previous free trial.

If the free demo makes you happy as a clam and you want to buy the full Splatoon 2 game, you’ll get a 20 percent discount if you buy it via Nintendo eShop during the demo period. As an extra bonus, you’ll even be able to transfer your demo progress over.

Key Features:

• New weapons – New dual-wielding Splat Dualies join the action, complete with a new Dodge Roll move. Mainstays like the Splat Roller and Splat Charger have also been remixed to include new gameplay mechanics and brand-new special weapons.
• Local and Online Multiplayer – In a first for the series, compete in local multiplayer Turf War battles, whether in TV mode or on-the-go in handheld or tabletop modes. Online battles also make a return.
• New ways to play – Play using the Joy-Con controllers or the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, both of which allow for gyro controls for better aiming and control.
• New Trends – Two years have passed since the release of Splatoon in real life, and two years have also passed in the game world. Some familiar characters return under different circumstances, and new characters are introduced as well.
• Fresh Updates - Similar to Splatoon for Wii U, updates will roll out post-launch, adding new content.
• Smart Device Support – An upcoming smart-phone application for the Nintendo Switch system will enhance matchmaking and allow for voice chat options.
• Turf War – Iconic 4 vs. 4 Turf War battles return. The goal is to splat ink on as much territory as possible, while strategically submerging yourself in your team's colors and blasting your enemies. 

Splatoon 2 is currently available exclusively for Nintendo Switch.