Splatoon 3: Abilities Tier List

Splatoon 3: Abilities Tier List
Jack Bye Updated on by

Posted in Guides

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Whether Inkling or Octoling, everybody wants to rise to the top of the pile and reign supreme in Splatsville. Splatoon 3 has brought Nintendo’s surprise hit franchise back for a third helping of calamari chaos, and fans are swimming back in droves. But with so much competition, it can feel initially difficult to gain an edge. That’s where Splatoon 3’s abilities come in. 

We want to help make you the best ink-slinger you can be in Splatoon 3, and we’re grouped every ability in the game to help you sort the best from the rest. 

READ MORE: Splatoon 3 Review Round-Up 

How do Abilities work in Splatoon 3? 

Splatoon 3 Abilities Screen
Copyright Nintendo, captured by Videogamer

Abilities are passive equipable effects in Splatoon 3. Abilities enhance your stats, grant new maneuvers, or augment existing skills. Your character’s gear – clothing, shoes, and headgear – come with inherent abilities that alter your strengths and playstyle. 

Each piece of gear also has additional slots, allowing you to equip Abilities tailored to your preferred playstyle. From returning favorites to bold new options, there is an ability to suit everyone. Experiment with abilities and you’ll soon find your own unique niche. 

Splatoon 3 – Abilities Tier List 

Tier List Image
Copyright Nintendo, captured by Videogamer

S-Tier 

The absolute best Abilities in Splatoon 3. If you have the slots free, you’ll want to prioritize these skills. 

  • Opening Gambit 
  • Last-Ditch Effort 
  • Ninja Squid 
  • Ink Saver (Main) 
  • Ability Doubler 
  • Swim Speed Up 

A-Tier 

Slightly less than perfect, but still incredibly useful, versatile, and powerful Abilities. 

  • Respawn Punisher 
  • Tenacity 
  • Comeback 
  • Run Speed Up 
  • Special Charge Up 
  • Special Saver 
  • Special Power Up 
  • Ink Resistance Up 

B-Tier 

Less generally useful Abilities that nonetheless still have their place in many Splatoon 3 builds and matches. 

  • Quick Respawn 
  • Ink Recovery Up 
  • Intensify Action 
  • Ink Saver (Sub) 
  • Sub Power Up 
  • Stealth Jump 
  • Thermal Ink 

C-Tier 

Overly specific or underpowered Abilities that rarely make the cut. 

  • Object Shredder 
  • Drop Roller 
  • Quick Super Jump 
  • Sub Resistance Up 
  • Haunt 

That does it for our Abilities Tier list. Now get out there and join the splat pack.