How to play Tableturf Battle in Splatoon 3 – Tips and Strategies

Splatoon 3 offers many ways to play and ink up turf. The most common will be Turf War and the other PvP game modes, as well as Salmon Run. But another way is the newly introduced Tableturf Battle, the card version of Turf War. With it being new, you may need some help learning to play and master this delightful game in Splatoon 3.

Tips and Tricks for Tableturf Battle in Splatoon 3

Splatoon 3's Tableturf Battle seems simple on the surface, but the card game has a great amount of depth. Knowing when to play which card will take time and practice, but there are some general tips to keep in mind. We have prepared some tips and tricks to help you in Splatoon 3's Tableturf Battle below.

Rush Your Opponent

One strategy we found to be effective is to rush toward your opponent's side of the board as fast as possible and set up a wall of your ink horizontally. This prevents them from having access to most of the board and then relying on using Special Attacks to make an opening. But don't get too overzealous and play your best cards immediately.

Know the Importance of Lower Number Cards

Cards with lower numbers may play less ink, but they are an important part of your deck. They are most important in the end game and when playing near your opponent's turf. Cards with lower numbers will ink over spots where a larger number card is played, meaning you can claim contested squares. Secondly, when the board has less free space in the end game, you will be able to play smaller ink cards in hard-to-play spots.

Related: Where to find Tableturf Battle in Splatoon 3

Save Your Special Attacks

It can be tempting to throw down a Special Attack and ink your opponent's turf when you get them, but we recommend holding onto them. Save your Special Attacks for a big break or to counteract your opponent trying to break through a wall you set up.

Rotate Your Cards

This is a feature that isn't explained, but you are able to rotate your cards and alter where they ink. This is important for making sure you ink turf efficiently and not leave open spaces you can't otherwise fill. Take your time when playing a card, especially when space is limited, and place it in the most optimal position and direction.

Build a Balanced Deck with High and Low Cards

You want a well-balanced and structured deck so that you can play large ink cards in the beginning and have smaller cards to fill in gaps and small spots. Smaller cards are crucial because they can overrule your opponent's cards when played at the same time, but also because they have a lower cost for Special Attacks.

Surround Your Special Squares

To get Special Points and access to your Special Attacks, you must completely surround your Special Squares. This includes all four sides and corners. One thing to keep in mind is that walls count when determining if a Special Tile is surrounded. Sometimes it is better to grab that Special Point for later than to ink more turf at the moment.

For more information on Splatoon 3, check out How to open Card Packs in Splatoon 3 and All Splatoon 3 Inkling and Octoling hairstyles on Pro Game Guides.