amiibo

For the amiibo gear brand, see amiibo (brand).

amiibo (stylized in lowercase) are figurines produced by Nintendo that are equipped with Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology and can be used in various Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and Nintendo Switch games, including the Splatoon series.

Appearance

amiibo figures are medium-sized collectible figures; typically measuring no taller than four inches. Most amiibo have bases, which account for 0.4 inches of the amiibo's total height, and measure exactly 1.9 inches in diameter. All Splatoon series amiibo have bases.

All amiibo bases are typically printed with a pattern on their surface to distinguish the series that the amiibo originates from. Splatoon series amiibo uniquely lack such a print, with their bases being entirely black. Instead, all Splatoon amiibo have 3-dimensional ink on their bases to denote them as part of the Splatoon series, with the ink color changing depending on the amiibo. This ink is often also used for stability for the figures; for instance, both of Marina's amiibo have large globs of ink stretching from the base to one of the tentacles on the back of her head. This allows the amiibo's tentacles to stay accurate to the original artwork and design, while also preventing the figurine from being too fragile.

Splatoon series amiibo are typically designed to imitate specific pieces of promotional art (which are then featured on the amiibo packaging), although there are some instances of amiibo not resembling any artwork at all. This is typical of the Inkling Squid and Octoling Octopus amiibo. Additionally, some amiibo have artwork specifically designed for them, such as the Deep Cut and Squid Sisters (Alterna) amiibo, which do not resemble their primary promotional poses.

Some amiibo also have discrepancies between their original designs and the amiibo based on them. These are usually minor cosmetic differences related to materials and production costs, but some appear to be genuine mistakes.

Certain Splatoon series amiibo are known to have elements that glow under blacklight.

History

Splatoon

On 1 April 2015, Nintendo announced in a Nintendo Direct that Splatoon would be receiving three different amiibo on launch on 28 May 2015. The three amiibo that were announced were the Inkling Girl, Inkling Boy, and Inkling Squid, with the squid only available as part of the three-pack in North America, and in Europe exclusively in a Splatoon + Inkling Squid amiibo bundle.

Over a year later, on 30 April 2016, a second wave of figures was announced, including Callie, Marie, and recolored versions of the three amiibo from the previous wave. They first launched in Japan on 7 July 2016 and in the rest of the world over the next two days.

Splatoon 2

During the 12 April 2017 Nintendo Direct, alongside the confirmation of Splatoon 2's release date, it was announced that the game would be receiving a new trio of Inkling Girl, Inkling Boy, and Inkling Squid amiibo with unique unlocks launching alongside the game on 21 July 2017 worldwide. All previous amiibo figures were also confirmed to be compatible with the game.

On 11 February 2018, amiibo figures for Pearl and Marina were announced. They were released on 13 July 2018.

Following the end of the Splatoon 2 World Championship 2018 on 12 June 2018, it was confirmed that Octoling Girl, Octoling Boy, and Octoling Octopus amiibo would be released, based on the Octo Expansion. A month later, their release dates of 7 November 2018 in Japan and Europe, 9 November 2018 in Oceania, and 7 December 2018 in North America were confirmed.

Splatoon 3

During the Splatoon 3 Direct on 10 August 2022, a new set of amiibo was announced, although, unlike other opening waves, these were not available at launch. The Inkling (Yellow), Octoling (Blue), and Smallfry amiibo were eventually released on 11 November 2022.

On 17 August 2023, alongside the reveal of Drizzle Season 2023, Nintendo announced Shiver, Frye, and Big Man amiibo. They released on 17 November 2023.^[1]

On 18 July 2024, alongside the reveal of the Grand Festival, Nintendo announced new amiibo of Callie, Marie, Pearl, and Marina, based on their appearances in Splatoon 3. They released on 5 September 2024.

Gameplay

In all three games, large-scale amiibo cases can be found in the hub world (or hub worlds, in the case of Splatoon 3). These can be interacted with to scan in a compatible Splatoon series amiibo. The exact function of the amiibo depends on the game and the figurine.

In Splatoon

The amiibo case is located at the southeastern corner of Inkopolis Plaza and it appears as the packaging that amiibo traditionally comes in. When scanning an amiibo (if the amiibo is registered) a flurry of ink circles the inside as the corresponding amiibo forms inside of it. The character introduces themselves and lays down guidelines for their challenges.

Each Wave 1 amiibo features twenty challenges if the single-player mode, Octo Valley, has been completed. The first challenge gives the player 600 cash as a reward, with the reward increasing by 100 for each challenge cleared. Each challenge can be completed again, though for only a reward of 100 cash. When three challenges in the same row are completed, the fourth challenge for that set is unlocked, being the boss for its corresponding area in Octo Valley. As opposed to a monetary reward, the boss challenges provide an exclusive piece of gear for the first three bosses, a minigame for the fourth, and a weapon blueprint for the final boss.

The Squid Sisters amiibo allows the user to view concerts in the plaza, similar to a Splatfest. The three reskinned amiibo have the same behavior as their original counterparts. The challenge trees are shared between the original and reskinned amiibo.

In Splatoon 2

amiibo in Splatoon 2 can save full equipment sets for quick selection in matches. The player's control settings (motion controls and sensitivity settings) are saved as well. They can also be used as in-game friends and players can take pictures with them. When taking pictures with the various Inkling Girl and Boy amiibo, the player can choose if they wear their original outfit or the gear saved to the amiibo. Upon registering the amiibo, it asks to befriend the player, who receives the first gift from the amiibo - a piece of headgear. Ten victories are needed to unlock the next reward. Saving to the amiibo in the gear selection screen grants the player all the rewards and the ability to immediately switch to the gear and weapon they had equipped while saving.

In Splatoon 3

amiibo have similar functionality in Splatoon 3 as they do in Splatoon 2, giving mostly the same gear. However, no songs are given for Squid Beatz due to the minigame's removal. amiibo once again give rewards on a ten-victory system; however, they start with shoes first instead of headgear like in Splatoon 2. Using an amiibo with data from Splatoon 2 causes it to recognize the player and immediately give all of its rewards, though for the amiibo to befriend the player, the previous data must be deleted. It should be noted that Salmon run does not count towards the ten victories. The player can scan in an amiibo to take pictures with them around the hub world just like in Splatoon 2. This time, however, with a dedicated Photo Mode in Splatoon 3, the player can simply open up the Photo Mode anywhere in Splatsville, Inkopolis Plaza, or Inkopolis Square, and scan the amiibo, as opposed to going up to the amiibo box every time they want to take a picture. amiibo can also be used to save currently equipped gear, player settings, camera options, and registered "Freshest Fits", which can then be reloaded by scanning the amiibo in the gear menu.

The Splatoon 3: Expansion Pass allows the player to visit Inkopolis Plaza and Inkopolis Square. Both of these hubs retain their amiibo cases from their original games, and the idol characters will make comments about the location that they've been summoned in if they are not summoned in their hub world of origin. The amiibo case in Inkopolis Square has been moved to near where the Squid Beatz 2 machine was due to a train station now existing in its former location.

The amiibo box was unavailable during the Grand Festival^[2]; however, amiibo could still be used to take photos with in Photo Mode at the Grand Festival Grounds (except for the idol characters). Additionally, following the Grand Festival's conclusion and results announcement, the player can scan an amiibo of any of the idols to unlock access to the Grand Festival Grounds anytime. There are three variations of the hub area to choose from: "Remember Colorful Evenings" (the rotating set list from the first two days, consisting of five songs for each band (Spicy Calamari Inkantation, City of Color (2023), Liquid Sunshine, Ink Me Up, and Tomorrow's Nostalgia Today for the Squid Sisters, We're So Back, Color Pulse (2024), Muck Warfare, Acid Hues, and Ebb & Flow for Off the Hook, and Anarchy Rainbow, Till Depth Do Us Part, Hide and Sleek, Fins in the Air, and Smeared Canvas for Deep Cut); "Remember the Night of Unity" (the Now or Never Seven performing Three Wishes); and "Remember That Tranquil Dawn" (the performances of the post-Splatfest songs (Maritime Memory for the Squid Sisters, Into the Light for Off the Hook, and Daybreaker Anthem for Deep Cut) during the two-hour period before the results announcement).

Inkling Girl

The Inkling Girl amiibo was released on 28 May 2015 alongside Splatoon. It can be used to unlock twenty charger challenges in Octo Valley and rewards the player with an exclusive costume piece for every four challenges completed. After completing all challenges, the player completes the set and receives the exclusive School Gear along with the Squidball minigame and the Hero Charger Replica blueprints.

The original Inkling Girl amiibo is a light-skinned Inkling (the third skin tone from the left in Splatoon 2) with orange hair and eyes. She wears the Fake Contacts, White Tee, and Pink Trainers and carries the Splattershot. She appears to be based on the female Inkling most commonly used to advertise the game, such as on the front cover and for commercials, along with the default girl Inkling.

This amiibo's shirt and shoes glow under blacklight.

Recolor

A recolored version of the Inkling Girl amiibo was released on 7 July 2016. Its functionality is identical to the original, but the character's in-game appearance matches the new model. The recolored Inkling Girl's skin color remains unchanged, but her hair is lime green and her eyes are magenta. She wears the Fake Contacts, the Black Tee, and the Black Trainers and carries the Tentatek Splattershot.

Challenges

These Octo Valley challenges must be completed with the Hero Charger:

Inkling Girl amiibo challenges
Area	Stage 1	Stage 2	Stage 3	Boss
1	Octotrooper Hideout	Lair of the Octoballs	Rise of the Octocopters	The Mighty Octostomp!
Reward	600	700	800	Squid Hairclip
2	Floating Sponge Garden	Propeller-Lift Playground	Spreader Splatfest	The Dreaded Octonozzle!
Reward	900	1,000	1,100	School Uniform
3	Shifting Splatforms	Octoling Assault	Undeniable Flying Object	The Rampaging Octowhirl!
Reward	1,200	1,300	1,400	School Shoes
4	Propeller-Lift Fortress	Octosniper Ramparts	Octoling Uprising	The Ravenous Octomaw!
Reward	1,500	1,600	1,700	Squidball
5	Spongy Observatory	Far-Flung Flooders	Unavoidable Flying Object	Enter the Octobot King!
Reward	1,800	1,900	2,000	Hero Charger Replica

In other games

In Splatoon 2, while the Inkling Girl and Inkling Girl 2 amiibo share the same dialogue and features, the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the original Inkling Girl amiibo are as follows:

• Squid Hairclip
• School Uniform
• School Shoes
• Shellfie for Squid Beatz 2

In Splatoon 3, the Inkling Girl and Inkling Girl 2 amiibo again share the same dialogue and features, but the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the original Inkling Girl amiibo are almost identical, minus the song, while the School Uniform has been split into the School Uniform A and School Uniform B, and the School Shoes have been split into the School Shoes + Hi Socks and Base School Shoes. In Splatoon 3, the Inkling Girl amiibo's eyes are incorrectly shown as red, rather than orange.

Inkling Boy

The Inkling Boy amiibo was released on 28 May 2015 along with Splatoon. It can be used to unlock twenty roller challenges in Octo Valley and provides the player with an exclusive character piece after every four challenges are completed. After completing all challenges, the player completes the set and receives the exclusive Samurai gear along with the Squid Racer minigame and the Hero Roller Replica blueprints.

The original Inkling Boy amiibo is a light-skinned Inkling (the third from the left skin tone in Splatoon 2) with dark blue hair and eyes. He wears the Fake Contacts, Zink Layered LS, and Purple Hi-Horses and carries the Splattershot. He appears to be based on the male Inkling most commonly used to advertise the game, such as on the front cover and for commercials, along with the default boy Inkling.

This amiibo's shirt glows under blacklight.

Recolor

A recolored version of the Inkling Boy amiibo was released on 7 July 2016. Its functionality is identical to the original, but the character's in-game appearance matches the new model. The recolored Inkling Boy has dark skin (the fourth skin tone option in Splatoon 2), purple hair, and orange eyes. He wears the Fake Contacts, the Choco Layered LS, and the Gold Hi-Horses and carries the Tentatek Splattershot.

Challenges

These Octo Valley challenges must be completed with the Hero Roller:

Inkling Boy amiibo challenges
Area	Stage 1	Stage 2	Stage 3	Boss
1	Octotrooper Hideout	Lair of the Octoballs	Rise of the Octocopters	The Mighty Octostomp!
Reward	600	700	800	Samurai Helmet
2	Gusher Gauntlet	Octoling Invasion	Unidentified Flying Object	The Dreaded Octonozzle!
Reward	900	1,000	1,100	Samurai Jacket
3	Inkrail Skyscape	Inkvisible Avenues	Flooder Junkyard	The Rampaging Octowhirl!
Reward	1,200	1,300	1,400	Samurai Shoes
4	Spinning Spreaders	Tumbling Splatforms	Unwelcome Flying Object	The Ravenous Octomaw!
Reward	1,500	1,600	1,700	Squid Racer
5	Splat-Switch Revolution	Pinwheel Power Plant	Octoling Onslaught	Enter the Octobot King!
Reward	1,800	1,900	2,000	Hero Roller Replica

In other games

In Splatoon 2, while the Inkling Boy and Inkling Boy 2 amiibo share the same dialogue and features, the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the original Inkling Boy amiibo are as follows:

• Samurai Helmet
• Samurai Jacket
• Samurai Shoes
• Splattack! for Squid Beatz 2

Interestingly, the in-game version of this amiibo erroneously features green eyes, where the actual amiibo has orange eyes.

In Splatoon 3, the Inkling Boy and Inkling Boy 2 amiibo again share the same dialogue and features, but the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the original Inkling Boy amiibo are identical, minus the song. This game also corrects the eye color of the in-game amiibo character back to orange.

Inkling Squid

The Inkling Squid amiibo was released on 28 May 2015. It can be used to unlock sixteen Kraken and four limited-ink challenges in Octo Valley and provides the player with an exclusive costume piece after every four challenges completed. After completing all the challenges, the player completes the set and receives the exclusive Power Gear along with the Squid Beatz minigame and the Hero Shot Replica blueprints.

The original Inkling Squid amiibo is a green Inkling in squid form.

Recolor

A recolored version of the Inkling Squid amiibo was released on 7 July 2016. Its functionality is identical to the original, but the character's in-game appearance matches the new model. The recolored Inkling Squid is orange.

Challenges

The Inkling Squid amiibo allows players to complete specific Octo Valley missions in two ways: some can be completed as a Kraken with limited time, and others must be completed with limited ink. In the Kraken challenges, the player is given the ability to turn into a Kraken instead of a squid for the entirety of the level. In limited ink challenges, the player is given three or four full ink tanks to complete the level, but the ink cannot be replenished. The challenges are as follows:

Inkling Squid amiibo challenges
Area	Stage 1	Stage 2	Stage 3	Boss
1	Octotrooper Hideout	Lair of the Octoballs	Rise of the Octocopters	The Mighty Octostomp!
Reward	600	700	800	Power Mask
2	Gusher Gauntlet	Floating Sponge Garden	Spreader Splatfest	The Dreaded Octonozzle!
Reward	900	1,000	1,100	Power Armor
3	Inkvisible Avenues	Flooder Junkyard	Shifting Splatforms	The Rampaging Octowhirl!
Reward	1,200	1,300	1,400	Power Boots
4	Spinning Spreaders	Tumbling Splatforms	Octoling Uprising	The Ravenous Octomaw!
Reward	1,500	1,600	1,700	Squid Beatz
5	Spongy Observatory	Pinwheel Power Plant	Far-Flung Flooders	Enter the Octobot King!
Reward	1,800	1,900	2,000	Hero Shot Replica

In other games

In Splatoon 2, while the Inkling Squid and Inkling Squid 2 amiibo share the same dialogue and features, the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the original Inkling Squid amiibo are as follows:

• Power Mask
• Power Armor
• Power Boots
• Hooked for Squid Beatz 2

In Splatoon 3, the Inkling Squid and Inkling Squid 2 amiibo again share the same dialogue and features, but the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the original Inkling Squid amiibo are identical, minus the song.

Squid Sisters

amiibo figurines of Callie and Marie were released on 7 July 2016. They can be used to unlock exclusive in-game Squid Sisters concerts, including two exclusive solo songs; one for each. Using either of the Squid Sisters causes Inkopolis Plaza to take on its appearance during a Splatfest, and the player becomes colored after and wears a Splatfest Tee for whichever Squid Sister was used. During the concert, no buildings can be entered, nor can Judd be talked to.

The Squid Sisters can perform the following songs, each with a separate dance routine:

• Ink Me Up
• Now or Never! (Splatfest)
• City of Color
• Maritime Memory
• Calamari Inkantation
• Bomb Rush Blush (Callie's solo; can only be chosen with Callie amiibo)
• Tide Goes Out (Marie's solo; can only be chosen with Marie amiibo)

In other games

While photos can be taken with Callie and Marie in Splatoon 2, they can only be taken in Inkopolis Square, and without gear saved to them. In addition, their functionality is only unlocked with the completion of Octo Canyon. The rewards given by the Callie amiibo are as follows:

• Hero Headset Replica
• Hero Jacket Replica
• Hero Runner Replicas
• Bomb Rush Blush for Squid Beatz 2

The rewards given by the Marie amiibo are as follows:

• Armor Helmet Replica
• Armor Jacket Replica
• Armor Boot Replicas
• Tide Goes Out for Squid Beatz 2

In Splatoon 3, the rewards given by the Callie and Marie amiibo are identical, minus the songs. They also allow the player to revisit the Grand Festival Grounds.

The gloves, leggings, and ink of these amiibo glow under blacklight.

Inkling Girl (Splatoon 2)

The Inkling Girl amiibo was released on 21 July 2017 alongside Splatoon 2. It can be purchased individually or in a pack of three with the Inkling Boy 2 and Inkling Squid 2 amiibo in North America. The hair, shirt, shoes, ink, of this amiibo, as well as elements of its Splat Dualies, glow under blacklight.

The Inkling Girl 2 amiibo is a slightly dark-skinned Inkling (the fifth skin tone in Splatoon 2) with neon pink hair and orange eyes (though they appear pink in-game). She has the Haircut hairstyle and wears a skirt with small biker shorts underneath. She appears to be based on the default girl Inkling from Splatoon 2, along with the Inkling used to advertise Splatoon 2 in commercials and on the cover of the game. She wears the Fake Contacts, White King Tank, and Cyan Dakroniks, and carries the Splat Dualies. After battling a certain amount, the player can earn rewards from the amiibo which are received in the following order:

• Squid Clip-Ons
• School Cardigan
• Fringed Loafers
• Split & Splat for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Inkling Girl 2 amiibo can be used in Splatoon, which identifies it as its original counterpart (with the original iteration's color).

In Splatoon 3, while the Inkling Girl and Inkling Girl 2 amiibo share the same dialogue and features, the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the Inkling Girl 2 amiibo are almost identical, minus the song, while the School Cardigan has been split into the School Cardigan A and School Cardigan B, and the Fringed Loafers have been split into the Baggy-Sock Fringe Loafs and Base Fringed Loafers. Interestingly, the Inkling Girl 2 amiibo's eyes in Splatoon 3 are incorrectly shown as orange, where they should be pink.

Inkling Boy (Splatoon 2)

The Inkling Boy amiibo was released on 21 July 2017 alongside Splatoon 2. It can be purchased individually or in a pack of three with the Inkling Girl 2 and Inkling Squid 2 amiibo in North America. The tips of this amiibo's hair, as well as its Splattershot, glow under blacklight.

The Inkling Boy 2 amiibo is a light-skinned Inkling (the third skin tone in Splatoon 2) with neon green hair and blue eyes (though they appear green in-game). He has the Slick hairstyle and wears shorts with pants underneath. He appears to be based on the default boy Inkling from Splatoon 2. He wears the Fake Contacts, Black V-Neck Tee, and Yellow-Mesh Sneakers and carries the Splattershot. After battling a certain amount, the player can earn rewards from the amiibo which are received in the following order:

• Squinja Mask
• Squinja Suit
• Squinja Boots
• Seaskape for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Inkling Boy 2 amiibo can be used in Splatoon, which identifies it as its original counterpart (with the original iteration's color).

In Splatoon 3, while the Inkling Boy and Inkling Boy 2 amiibo share the same dialogue and features, the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the Inkling Boy 2 amiibo are almost identical, minus the song, while the Squinja Mask has been split into the Squinja Mask Mk I and Squinja Mask Mk II.

Inkling Squid (Splatoon 2)

The Inkling Squid amiibo was released on 21 July 2017 alongside Splatoon 2. It can be purchased individually or in a pack of three with the Inkling Girl 2 and Inkling Boy 2 amiibo in North America. Unlike the Inkling Boy and Girl amiibo, players cannot take photos with gear saved onto it. The ink on this amiibo glows under blacklight.

The Inkling Squid 2 amiibo is a neon purple Inkling in squid form. After battling a certain amount, the player can earn rewards from the amiibo which are received in the following order:

• Power Mask Mk I
• Power Armor Mk I
• Power Boots Mk I
• Sucker Punch for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Inkling Squid 2 amiibo can be used in Splatoon, which identifies it as its original counterpart (with the original iteration's color).

In Splatoon 3, while the Inkling Squid and Inkling Squid 2 amiibo share the same dialogue and features, the game differentiates between them. The rewards given by the Inkling Squid 2 amiibo are identical, minus the song.

Off the Hook

amiibo figures of Pearl and Marina were released on 13 July 2018 and are sold in a two-pack for $24.99 in the US. Like the other amiibo, the player can befriend them, take photos with them, and receive special gear, specifically the outfits that they wear during the Octo Expansion. Pearl's crown, leggings, and ink glow under blacklight. Marina's leggings and pupils also glow under blacklight.

Each amiibo unlocks a theme for Squid Beatz 2 which changes the visuals of the game, as well as the sound effects played when entering the button prompts in the game.

When taking photos with Pearl and Marina, the player can choose if they will be dressed in their normal or Octo Expansion outfits. If the amiibo were used during a Splatfest, the player was able to take a photo on-stage with Off the Hook. During the Trick vs. Treat and Family vs. Friends Splatfests, Marina and Pearl would have their outfit colors altered to match their designs for the Splatfests.

If the Octo Expansion outfits are selected, Pearl and Marina have poses themed after their roles in the story, such as Marina posing with her laptop that was seen in the fight against Commander Tartar and the NILS Statue, or Pearl posing with the microphone she used before the same fight, when she rapped with Cap'n Cuttlefish.

The rewards given by the Pearl amiibo are as follows:

• Pearlescent Crown
• Pearlescent Hoodie
• Pearlescent Kicks
• Theme for Squid Beatz 2

The rewards given by the Marina amiibo are as follows:

• Marinated Headphones
• Marinated Top
• Marinated Slip-Ons
• Theme for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Off the Hook amiibo are not identified by Splatoon, and are treated like non-Splatoon amiibo.

In Splatoon 3, the rewards given by the Pearl and Marina amiibo are almost identical, minus the themes, while the Pearlescent Crown has been split into the Pearlescent Crown S and Pearlescent Crown L. They also allow the player to revisit the Grand Festival Grounds.

Octoling Girl

The Octoling Girl amiibo was released on 7 November 2018 in Japan and Europe, on 9 November 2018 in Oceania, and on 7 December 2018 in North America. It was released as a three-pack along with the Octoling Boy and Octoling Octopus, as well as separately. Unlike the other standard Splatoon amiibo, it, the Octoling Boy, and the Octoling Octopus all have the same colored ink. Their ink and hair also all glow under blacklight.

The Octoling Girl is slightly tan (unknown skin tone for the figure itself, but the darker, fifth skin tone in Splatoon 2) with orange eyes, the Tentacurl hairstyle, and reddish-pink ink. She wears the Agent 8 outfit from the Octo Expansion along with the unique backpack-like ink tank, and poses with an E-liter 4K. Her knelt-down stance is the same one used in promo images with the Octoling Boy, although instead of looking straight at the screen, she is looking to the side.

The rewards given by the Octoling Girl amiibo are as follows:

• Enchanted Hat
• Enchanted Robe
• Enchanted Boots
• #5 thirsty for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Octoling Girl amiibo is not identified by Splatoon, and is treated like a non-Splatoon amiibo.

In Splatoon 3, the rewards given by the Octoling Girl amiibo are almost identical, minus the song, while the Enchanted Robe has been split into the Enchanted Robe A and Enchanted Robe B.

Octoling Boy

The Octoling Boy amiibo was released on 7 November 2018 in Japan and Europe, on 9 November 2018 in Oceania, and on 7 December 2018 in North America. It was released as a three-pack along with the Octoling Girl and Octoling Octopus as well as separately. Unlike the other standard Splatoon amiibo, it, the Octoling Girl, and the Octoling Octopus have the same colored ink. Their ink and hair also all glow under blacklight.

The Octoling Boy is slightly tan (unknown skin tone for the figure itself, but the third skin tone in Splatoon 2) with green eyes, the Punk hairstyle, and reddish-pink ink. He wears the Agent 8 outfit from the Octo Expansion along with the unique backpack-like ink tank and poses with an Octobrush. His squatted stance is the same one used in a promo image with his female counterpart, although instead of looking straight at the screen, he is looking to the side.

The rewards given by the Octoling Boy amiibo are as follows:

• Steel Helm
• Steel Platemail
• Steel Greaves
• #9 party for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Octoling Boy amiibo is not identified by Splatoon, and is treated like a non-Splatoon amiibo.

In Splatoon 3, the rewards given by the Octoling Boy amiibo are identical, minus the song. Strangely, in Version 1.1.0 of Splatoon 3, the in-game Octoling boy character's Octobrush has yellow ink on its tip, rather than the usual correct-pink ink.

Octoling Octopus

The Octoling Octopus amiibo was released on 7 November 2018 in Japan and Europe, on 9 November 2018 in Oceania, and on 7 December 2018 in North America. It was released as a three-pack along with the Octoling Girl and Octoling Boy as well as separately. Unlike the other standard Splatoon amiibo, it, the Octoling Girl, and the Octoling Boy have the same colored ink. Like the Octoling boy and girl, this amiibo's ink glows under blacklight.

The Octoling Octopus is the Octolings' octopus form jumping up with a splash of reddish-pink ink, with its main tentacles crossed. A notable difference with the squid amiibo is that its eyes look to the side instead of looking up.

The rewards given by the Octoling Octopus amiibo are as follows:

• Fresh Fish Head
• Fresh Fish Gloves
• Fresh Fish Feet
• #14 crush for Squid Beatz 2

In other games

The Octoling Octopus amiibo is not identified by Splatoon, and is treated like a non-Splatoon amiibo.

In Splatoon 3, the rewards given by the Octoling Octopus amiibo are identical, minus the song.

Special edition

Special gold versions of the Inkling Squid and Octoling Octopus were given away as prizes to the GG BoyZ for winning the Splatoon 2 Koshien Tournament 2019. They came in special black and gold packaging written with "SPLATOON KOSHIEN CHAMPION 2019.1.17".

Inkling (Super Smash Bros.)

The Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Inkling amiibo was released on 7 December 2018 alongside the aforementioned game.

When used in any game in the Splatoon series, it is identified as the original Inkling Girl amiibo.

Inkling (Yellow)

The Inkling (Yellow) amiibo released on 11 November 2022. It can be purchased individually or in a pack of three with the Octoling (Blue) and Smallfry amiibo.

The Inkling has a moderate skin tone (the fifth skin tone in Splatoon 3) with neon yellow hair (with a "Megalobraid" hairstyle), yellow irises with an orange ring around them (incorrectly presented as simply yellow in-game), and classic shorts (like the default legwear in the original Splatoon). They wear a Tri-Shred Tee and a pair of Force ReBoots (two of the pieces of starting gear in Splatoon 3) and wield a Tri-Stringer.

The rewards given by the Inkling (Yellow) amiibo are as follows:

• Boss Floss
• Schoolyard Scrap Jack
• Knotty Bois

In other games

The Inkling (Yellow) amiibo can be used in Splatoon, which identifies it as its original counterpart (with the original iteration's color).

When scanned in Splatoon 2, this amiibo is registered as the Inkling Girl 2 amiibo and gives the player the same gear as the original amiibo.

Octoling (Blue)

The Octoling (Blue) amiibo released on 11 November 2022. It can be purchased individually or in a pack of three with the Inkling (Yellow) and Smallfry amiibo.

The Octoling has dark skin (the seventh skin tone in Splatoon 3 for the figure itself, but the eighth skin tone in-game), blue ink and tentacles (with an "Octolocks" hairstyle), red irises with a light blue ring, and classic shorts (like the default legwear in the original Splatoon). They wear a Seahorse Shoreliner and a pair of U Jellys and wield a .96 Gal.

The rewards given by the Octoling (Blue) amiibo are as follows:

• Sushi Sous-Chef Band
• Black-Belt Gi
• Kick Dampeners

In other games

The Octoling (Blue) amiibo is not identified by Splatoon, and is treated like a non-Splatoon amiibo.

When scanned in Splatoon 2, this amiibo is registered as the Octoling Boy amiibo and gives the player the same gear as the original amiibo.

Smallfry

The Smallfry amiibo released on 11 November 2022. It can be purchased individually or in a pack of three with the Inkling (Yellow) and Octoling (Blue) amiibo.

The Smallfry has the default hairstyle and is depicted leaping out of turquoise ink, surrounded by two Power Eggs.

The rewards given by the Smallfry amiibo are as follows:

• Chaos Helm
• Chaos Commander Suit
• Chaos Kicks

In other games

The Smallfry amiibo is not identified by Splatoon nor Splatoon 2, and is treated like a non-Splatoon amiibo.

Deep Cut

Shiver, Frye, and Big Man amiibo were released on 17 November 2023. In North America, they can only be purchased individually, while in other regions they are also available in a pack of three. The members of Deep Cut are depicted holding their masks from Return of the Mammalians and standing in splashes of blue, yellow, and red ink respectively. In particular, the Big Man amiibo is slightly transparent.^[3]

All three of these amiibo have elements that glow under blacklight. Shiver's eyes, and eyeliner glow, as well as the red markings on her ears, fingers, and shark mask. Frye's tentacles, ink, and mouth glow, as well as the yellow highlights on her eyelashes and ears. Big Man's dark-gray body patterns, ink, tongue, and hat details glow.

A trailer video revealing the Deep Cut amiibo gear rewards was published on 18 October 2023.

The rewards given by the Shiver amiibo are as follows:

• Hohojiro Mask
• Chomp Top
• Faux Sharkskin Platfins

The rewards given by the Frye amiibo are as follows:

• Onaga Mask
• Eelneck Tank
• Eel Heel Socks

The rewards given by the Big Man amiibo are as follows:

• Manta Mask
• Big Slick
• Big Muds

All three amiibo also allow the player to revisit the Grand Festival Grounds.

In other games

The Deep Cut amiibo are not identified by Splatoon and Splatoon 2, and are treated like non-Splatoon amiibo.

Squid Sisters (Alterna)

The Callie (Alterna) and Marie (Alterna) amiibo were revealed on 18 July 2024. They were released on 5 September 2024 alongside the Off the Hook (Side Order) amiibo^[4], and are are sold in a two-pack.

These amiibo depict Callie and Marie in their outfits from Return of the Mammalians, performing their signature "Staaaay fresh!" poses as they stand in splashes of yellow ink.

Both amiibo have elements that glow under blacklight. Callie's hat, the tips of her tentacles, her ink, as well as the cuts on her dress glow. Marie's hat, the tips of her tentacles, her ink, as well as her parasol and part of her shirt glow.

A trailer video revealing the Squid Sisters (Alterna) amiibo gear rewards was published on 20 August 2024.

The rewards given by the Callie (Alterna) amiibo are as follows:

• Hero Grip Replica
• Survival Suit Replica
• Survival Footwrap Replicas

The rewards given by the Marie (Alterna) amiibo are as follows:

• Captain's Cap Replica
• Captain's Poncho Replica
• Captain's Flip-Flop Replicas

The two amiibo also allow the player to revisit the Grand Festival Grounds.

In other games

In Splatoon, the Squid Sisters (Alterna) amiibo are registered as the original Callie and Marie amiibo and allow the player to view the concerts.

In Splatoon 2, the Squid Sisters (Alterna) amiibo are registered as the original Callie and Marie amiibo and give the player the same rewards, including the bonus songs for Squid Beatz 2.

Off the Hook (Side Order)

The Pearl (Side Order) and Marina (Side Order) amiibo were revealed on 18 July 2024. They were released on 5 September 2024 alongside the Squid Sisters (Alterna) amiibo^[5], and are sold in a two-pack.

These amiibo depict Pearl and Marina in their outfits from Side Order, leaping from splashes of gold and silver ink respectively (matching the colors of Chaos vs. Order), in similar poses to Sunken Scroll 22.

Both amiibo have elements that glow under blacklight. Pearl's sunglasses, the undersides of her tentacles, tubing on her coat, and most of her boots glow. Marina's pupils and tentacle tips glow, along with the zigzag marks on her jacket, trousers, and the headband on her headphones.

A trailer video revealing the Pearl (Side Order) and Marina (Side Order) amiibo gear rewards was published on 20 August 2024.

The rewards given by the Pearl (Side Order) amiibo are as follows:

• World Tour Crown
• World Tour Puffy Coat
• World Tour Boots

The rewards given by the Marina (Side Order) amiibo are as follows:

• World Tour Headphones
• World Tour Jacket
• World Tour Heels

The two amiibo also allow the player to revisit the Grand Festival Grounds.

In other games

The Off the Hook (Side Order) amiibo are not identified by Splatoon, and are treated like non-Splatoon amiibo.

In Splatoon 2, the Off the Hook (Side Order) amiibo are registered as the original Pearl and Marina amiibo and give the player the same rewards, including the additional themes for Squid Beatz 2.

Dioramas

Nintendo has released two Splatoon-themed dioramas to display amiibo, both of which were only released in Japan. One is based on Kelp Dome and another is based on a Squid Sisters concert. Both are foldable and the Squid Sisters diorama includes a hole to slot a 3DS or phone to display a Squid Sisters concert. They both come with stickers.

Usage in non-Splatoon games

amiibo tap: Nintendo's Greatest Bits

amiibo tap: Nintendo's Greatest Bits, known in Europe and Australia as amiibo Touch & Play: Nintendo Classics Highlights, is a downloadable application for Wii U that allows amiibo owners to try out classic NES and SNES games. All amiibo figures work with the application.^[6]

Animal Crossing: New Leaf

As part of an update for Animal Crossing: New Leaf, amiibo compatibility was added, which includes Splatoon amiibo as well. At a certain point, the player finds a magic lamp that allows them to summon Wisp once a day. When summoning Wisp, the player can tap a compatible amiibo for him to take the form of the villager it is associated with. For special characters and villagers that returned or were added in Welcome amiibo, the player can either ask for an item or for the real villager to show up at the Campground area. There, the villager waits for the player in an RV. Inside, the player can ask the villager to move into their town, as well as order furniture with 3 MEOW Coupons.

Tapping the Callie amiibo summons Cece the peppy squirrel. The Marie amiibo summons Viché the normal squirrel. Both variants of the Inkling Boy, Girl, and Squid amiibo summon Inkwell the jock octopus. Each villager comes with their own Splatoon-themed items to order as well.

Bayonetta 2

The Switch version of Bayonetta 2 is compatible with amiibo, in which the Splatoon and Splatoon 2 series amiibo can be used to gain some items. A special message is also displayed stating: "Here's a present from the kids in Inkopolis. Or are they squids? Whatever. Always wanted to check out their turf. They've got a fresh weaponsmith I wanna talk shop with. Maybe grab myself an N-Zap."

Chibi Robo! Zip-Lash

In Chibi Robo! Zip-Lash, tapping any amiibo except the Chibi Robo amiibo gives the player in-game coins.^[7] Tapping the Inkling Girl, Boy, and Squid amiibo also add special figures of Chibi Robo posing as their respective characters that can be collected via the in-game capsule machine.

Hey! Pikmin

The first two waves of Splatoon amiibo can be tapped in Hey! Pikmin to receive various rewards. When tapped on the area selection screen, the amiibo will appear in-game on top of a Secret Spot level. Entering the amiibo's level will allow the player to collect it for Sparklium, and an entry in the amiibo Log. When any other amiibo is scanned, including Splatoon series amiibo from waves 3 and beyond, a small amount of Sparklium will be granted instead.

Kirby series

Kirby: Planet Robobot

In Kirby: Planet Robobot, scanning an amiibo grants Kirby a copy ability depending on the character. The Inkling Girl, Inkling Boy, and Inkling Squid all grant Kirby access to the Poison ability.

Kirby Star Allies

In Kirby Star Allies, the Splatoon amiibo can be scanned during a stage and give items such as healing items and Picture Pieces.

Miitopia

Splatoon amiibo figures released before Miitopia's original Japanese release can be used to unlock costumes based on their characters. Other figures give the player three arcade tickets. The same applies to the Nintendo Switch version.

New Style Boutique series

New Style Boutique 2: Fashion Forward

In the Western version of Nintendo Presents: New Style Boutique 2 - Fashion Forward (released in North America as Style Savvy: Fashion Forward), players can scan the Inkling Girl amiibo to unlock a pair of leggings inspired by Splatoon.^[8] After the amiibo is scanned, a customer shows up at the player's store asking for a new outfit that goes with their Inky Leggings. If the player encourages the customer to try on their outfit (as opposed to just taking a look) and it is to their liking, then a pair of leggings is given to the player as a reward. The customer can be summoned via amiibo multiple times to unlock five variants of the item.
The Splatoon 2 variant of the Inkling Girl also unlocks a squid pattern and an ink splotch pattern for purses and shirts.

New Style Boutique 3: Styling Star

In Nintendo Presents: New Style Boutique 3 - Styling Star (released in North America as Style Savvy: Styling Star), tapping any Splatoon amiibo figure unlocks a pattern and an emblem based on the Splatoon series.

Pokkén Tournament

The Splatoon amiibo figures can be tapped once a day in Pokkén Tournament for an avatar costume item, a title, or a Poké Gold bonus. Up to five amiibo rewards can be claimed per day. Most of the other amiibo figures can be used for this as well, however.^[9]

Super Mario series

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

In Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, the Splatoon amiibo figures can be used to gain a 1-Up Mushroom. Most of the other amiibo figures can be used for this as well, however.^[10]

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Main article: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Party 10

The Splatoon amiibo figures can be tapped in Mario Party 10 for a Scratch Bonus and Mario Party Points. Most of the other amiibo figures can be used for this as well, however.^[11]

Mini Mario and Friends: amiibo Challenge

In Mini Mario & Friends: amiibo Challenge, any Splatoon amiibo figure can be used to start the game. This is the same for all other amiibo, though. However, certain amiibo from the Super Mario series unlock extra stages and have special abilities as well.^[12]

Super Mario Maker

Main article: Super Mario Maker#Costume Mario

WarioWare Gold

WarioWare Gold features amiibo sketches. Scanning any Splatoon or Splatoon 2 amiibo (except for playable Octoling amiibo, which were not yet released at the time of Gold's launch) makes Wario poorly draw the scanned character which can then be sold for coins.

Yoshi's Woolly World and Poochy & Yoshi's Woolly World

Yoshi's Woolly World features Yoshi patterns based on numerous Nintendo characters that can be unlocked using amiibo. Splatoon-based Yoshi patterns in this game are based on the orange Inkling Girl, blue Inkling Boy, and green Inkling Squid, which are granted by their respective amiibo. The recolored and Splatoon 2 Inkling amiibo simply give the designs of their original counterparts (e.g. scanning a purple Inkling Squid amiibo from Splatoon 2 gives the green Inkling Squid design). Other Splatoon series amiibo are not recognized and give a generic amiibo Yoshi design.

Poochy & Yoshi's Woolly World retains the Splatoon Yoshi designs from the original Yoshi's Woolly World and also features additional designs not present in the original Yoshi's Woolly World, including designs based on Callie, Marie, and recolored Inklings from the original Splatoon that can be unlocked with the corresponding amiibo. The Splatoon 2 amiibo still give the original Splatoon designs and other incompatibilities remain.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Main article: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

The Legend of Zelda series

In Hyrule Warriors, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Splatoon amiibo can be tapped once a day for different rewards such as weapons rated three stars or lower, Rupees, crafting materials and more. Other amiibo figures can be used for this as well, however.^[13]

Word Puzzles by POWGI

In Word Puzzles by POWGI, scanning in any amiibo generates a word puzzle based on the owner's Mii name and the nickname of the amiibo.^[14]

Quotes

“	Bring an Inkling amiibo™ figure home and open cool extras in your game.	”
— Splatoon's official website[15]

“	Tap a Splatoon-series amiibo™ figure to your Wii U GamePad controller. Complete the challenges to access exclusive gear for your Inkling!	”
— Splatoon's official website[15]

View the quotation page.

Gallery

➤ View the gallery

Trivia

• In all three games, the hub world amiibo boxes are fully textured like real amiibo boxes; even including the information on the back of amiibo boxes, albeit written in Inkling. This is immediately visible in Splatoon 2 and Splatoon 3, but impossible to view under normal circumstances in Splatoon.
• Big Man (who is usually sold in an extra-large amiibo box to account for his size) appears in the hub world amiibo box with his fins curled up and head tucked in. He even mentions bumping his head on the box when first scanned.
• The Inkling Girl's amiibo is the basis for her trophies in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U.
• In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the Inkling Girl and Inkling Boy characters' appearances are based on their amiibo counterparts from Splatoon, including the recolors.
• In Splatoon 2, the Octoling amiibo speak with many grammatical errors and unusual phrases in their dialogue (most notably the Octoling Octopus). This is likely due to the Octarians not speaking Inkling often. In Splatoon 3, this is not the case and the Octoling amiibo speak in a more normal manner.
• In the UK, the only way to officially obtain an Inkling Squid amiibo at launch was to pre-order a bundle with the original Splatoon. However, a truck transporting these bundles shipped from GAME was hijacked and the stock was never recovered. Consumers were instead given the other two Inkling amiibo alongside the game to compensate for this loss or could receive some money back. The culprit was never found.^[16]
• When the Smallfry amiibo is scanned in the amiibo box, instead of talking to the player like most amiibo, an unknown narrator helps communicate with the Smallfry.

Etymology

The origins and meaning of the term amiibo are both rather unclear. Bill Trinen of Nintendo of America has stated^[17] that the "amii" is "from a little something in Japanese that conveys the sentiment of [...] playing with your friend"; he also notes a similarity to the Spanish amigo ("friend"), but states this was not part of the origin of the term, merely that it "conveys the intent".

The doubled lowercase "i" may also be seen as linking to the Wii or Wii U consoles, or by extension Miis (which are also still present on the Nintendo Switch).

External links

• amiibo on Wikipedia
• amiibo on NintendoWiki

References

Modes in Splatoon

Online Regular Battle (Turf War) • Ranked Battle (Splat Zones • Tower Control • Rainmaker) • Splatfest Battle • Squad Battle • Private Battle • Recon Offline Octo Valley • Battle Dojo • Arcade machine • amiibo • Tutorial

Modes in Splatoon 2

Online Regular Battle (Turf War) • Ranked Battle (Splat Zones • Tower Control • Rainmaker • Clam Blitz) • Splatfest Battle • League Battle • Private Battle (Spectator View) • Recon • Salmon Run Offline Octo Canyon • Octo Expansion • The Shoal (Private Battle • Salmon Run) • Squid Beatz 2 • amiibo • Tutorial

Modes in Splatoon 3

Online Regular Battle (Turf War) • Anarchy Battle (Splat Zones • Tower Control • Rainmaker • Clam Blitz) • Challenge • Splatfest Battle • Tricolor Turf War • X Battle • Private Battle • Salmon Run (Big Run • Eggstra Work) • Tableturf Battle Offline Return of the Mammalians • Side Order • The Shoal (Private Battle • Salmon Run) • Recon • Tableturf Battle • amiibo • Tutorial