Nintendo’s Amiibo were first released in June 2014, and they’ve had a whirlwind of an existence in their short lifespan to date. Much as with Nintendo Switch itself, the idea seemed a little out there at first, but it’s done pretty darn well overall. The desirable little figures have won over a dedicated band of fans, who are always on the lookout for additions to the line.

If you’re an ardent Amiibo collector, you’re going to be tickled ink by this news. The latest Amiibos to be added to the range are none other than Splatoon 2’s Pearl and Marina. That’s not all, either, as the announcement came with confirmation of a new update for Splatoon 2 itself. Let’s get into it.

As fans will know, Marina and Pearl are the hosts of the game’s Splatfests. These are contests similar to ARMS’ Party Crashes, except with an interesting twist: instead of choosing to support one character or another in the event, you’re instead opting for a side in a particular debate. We’re talking super controversial, hard-hitting issues here, too (one of the past splatfests revolved around whether pineapple on pizza is acceptable or not).

Followers of these fun, time-limited events will be glad to know that Marina and Pearl are going to be available as an Amiibo two-pack (exclusively, they won’t be sold separately), priced at $24.99. No specific release date has been confirmed yet, but Nintendo have promised that they’re on the way ‘later this year.’ The popular duo form pop double act Off The Hook in the game, and they’re likely to be flying off store shelves too when they touch down.

Splatoon 2 Pearl and Marina Amiibo Announced
Via: dotesports.com

There’s more to the story than that, though. In the wake of the Splatoon 2 Koshien 2018 tournament, Nintendo also announced that an update is coming to the game. A new stage, Goby Arena, is ‘coming soon,’ the company confirmed on Twitter, as well as a new weapon, the Dark Tetra Dualies. These twin pistol-looking contraptions will allow the user to make four consecutive dodge rolls, as well as granting the ability to take rolling shots.

It’s gratifying to see Splatoon 2’s post-launch support continuing. The game is one of the most popular and robust competitive experiences that the Switch has to offer, and a real killer app in that sense. The Splatoon team, like the ARMS team, are doing stellar work in keeping the game in our hearts and minds.

Finally, Nintendo have also revealed the Splatoon 2 Starter Edition, a little bundle that will feature the game and a substantial strategy guide. It’ll launch on March 16, priced at $59.99. In the meantime, let's check out the teaser trailer for the Pearl and Marina Amiibos.