Nintendo Brings Splatoon Raiders and Nintendo Switch Sports Resort to San Diego Comic-Con 2026 With Early Hands-On Demos

Nintendo has revealed its lineup for San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2026, giving attendees early access to two of its biggest Nintendo Switch 2 titles. Visitors will be able to play the newly announced Nintendo Switch Sports Resort ahead of its October launch while also celebrating the release of Splatoon Raiders, the franchise’s latest action-adventure game.

Running from July 23 to July 26, Nintendo’s SDCC presence extends beyond the convention floor with hands-on demos, live competitions, themed activities, and special attractions across downtown San Diego. The showcase reflects Nintendo’s continued focus on interactive experiences, allowing fans to experience upcoming games before their public release.

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort makes its first U.S. appearance

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort (Image via Nintendo)

One of the biggest attractions at SDCC 2026 will be the first U.S. public hands-on demo of Nintendo Switch Sports Resort. Beginning at 9:30 a.m. PT each day inside The Pointe at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel, attendees can try the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive before its scheduled October 22 launch.

The new entry in the Nintendo Switch Sports series features 12 motion-controlled sports, with Comic-Con visitors able to play four of them during the event. Entry will be available through a first-come, first-served queue.

Outside on The Promenade, Nintendo will also broadcast live gameplay on large screens while hosting family-friendly sports activities inspired by the game, giving both players and spectators a chance to participate.

Splatoon Raiders headlines launch weekend celebrations

Splatoon Raiders headlines Nintendo’s SDCC 2026 lineup with launch weekend demos for Nintendo Switch 2 players (Image via Nintendo)

Nintendo is also celebrating the launch of Splatoon Raiders with an extensive booth experience in Hall A, Booth #235 on the convention showroom floor.

Players will explore the mysterious Spirhalite Islands, battle Salmonid enemies, search for treasure, and team up with Deep Cut throughout the action-adventure experience. The game introduces multiple tank types, allowing players to customize their playstyle by choosing between the Power Tank, Speed Tank, or Tactical Tank, each designed for different combat approaches.

To extend the celebration beyond the convention center, Nintendo will operate a Splatoon Raiders-themed trolley throughout downtown San Diego during the event.

Fans can challenge The Rizzler during SDCC

Nintendo is also bringing a live stage event to Comic-Con. On July 23, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. PT, visitors who have already played Nintendo Switch Sports Resort can compete against social media personality The Rizzler during a special exhibition at The Promenade.

Participants will be randomly selected by Nintendo event staff, though the company noted that no prizes will be awarded as part of the competition.

Nintendo described the event as an opportunity for attendees to experience its newest games in unique ways while encouraging fans to “get ready to play” throughout the convention weekend.