Nintendo has explained why it chose to develop the new game Splatoon Raiders rather than a direct sequel, Splatoon 4. According to the project's lead, the decision was deliberate rather than a sign of any problem with the Splatoon series, with the team instead wanting to experiment with a different format and approach to the franchise.

The lead described wanting to "create something with a slightly different approach", suggesting Splatoon Raiders is intended as a distinct spin-off experience rather than a like-for-like continuation of the mainline ink-based shooter series. This positions the new title as a deliberate creative choice by Nintendo to diversify the Splatoon franchise rather than simply iterating with a numbered sequel.