Splatoon 3 Update 11.0.0: Flow Aura & HP Bars

Attention all Splatoon 3 players! Nintendo has just dropped massive news about the upcoming version 11.0.0 update, scheduled to launch on January 29, 2026 (January 28 in Europe). This isn’t just another balance patch—it’s a complete game-changer introducing Flow Aura mechanics, visible health bars, refined hitboxes, and extensive multiplayer adjustments. Whether you’re grinding ranked battles or dominating Turf War, these features will transform how you approach every match in Splatlands.

Flow Aura: Your New Kill-Streak Powerhouse

The headline feature is Flow Aura—a reward system for aggressive plays. Splat multiple enemies quickly, and you’ll trigger this powerful state that spreads ink around you while granting crucial buffs for 30 seconds:

• Increased run and swim speed
• Enhanced Ink Resistance
• Boosted Intensify Action effects

Keep eliminating opponents or assist teammates to extend the duration. Each successful splat refreshes the ink overflow beneath your feet. Players can also activate Flow Aura through territory coverage and team assists, making it accessible for support-focused players. Coordinate with your squad to break enemy streaks—this mechanic rewards teamwork and momentum.

Health Bars Bring Tactical Clarity

After damaging opponents, health indicators now appear above them for approximately three seconds with direct line-of-sight. Abilities like Thermal Ink and Point Sensor enable visibility through walls. This feature works for teammates too, eliminating guesswork about who needs finishing. No more wasted shots on already-weak targets—maximize your efficiency with precise information.

Hitbox Adjustments and Weapon Rebalancing

Swim-form hitboxes received reductions, making players harder to hit when positioned behind corners or walls. Attack collision detection expanded, particularly benefiting short-range weapons. Stealth Jump now features slower descent speeds for fairer engagements. Nintendo explained these changes address outdated design choices from the Wii U era that compensated for motion controls.

Notable Weapon Changes

• Dynamo Roller variants: Increased ink output and 100+ damage at distance, but 17% higher consumption
• Reefslider: 20% larger 220-damage radius with elevated center (harder dodging), but 19% less charge and 7% reduced ink
• Special point adjustments: New Squiffer dropped from 200 to 190, Z+F Splat Charger reduced from 210 to 200

Bug Fixes and Stage Improvements

The Splatoon 3 11.0.0 patch addresses critical issues including Undercover Brella’s infinite regeneration glitch and exploits on MakoMart, Bluefin Depot, and Urchin Underpass. Nintendo confirmed these substantial changes mean another balance-focused update will follow soon. Prepare for significant meta shifts affecting competitive streams and tournaments when the update goes live on January 29!