If you’ve ever wanted to turn cleaning robots into agents of chaos, Splatterbot is your dream come true. Developed by Australian studio Hey! Kookaburra, this friendly, paint-splattering multiplayer game mixes easy-to-pick-up controls with messy, competitive fun. I caught up with Nathan, the solo developer behind Splatterbot, to talk about the game’s origins, its quirky twist on tidy robots, and how it aims to bring friends and family together for chaotic, colourful matches.
Where did the idea for Splatterbot come from? Was there a specific moment or influence that sparked the “make the most mess” concept?
The idea for Splatterbot came from playing local multiplayer games with my kids on the Nintendo Switch. I wanted to create a local multiplayer game that we could enjoy together. Boomerang Fu and Splatoon are my biggest influences for Splatterbot. I wanted to combine Splatoon’s clear gameplay goals with Boomerang Fu’s easy controls and fixed top-down camera.
Being an Australian studio, do you think local culture or humour influenced the game’s design in any way?
Outside of my studio name (Hey! Kookaburra), there are no direct Australian influences in Splatterbot’s design that I can think of at least. I’m sure there are many indirect influences. I’m open to the idea of bringing some Australiana to Splatterbot in the future.
What kind of atmosphere were you aiming to create with Splatterbot? Is it more about friendly chaos, competitive depth, or a mix of both?
Splatterbot is friendly chaos. It can get competitive at times, but often I find myself zoning out and just paint as much of the map as possible. Sometimes it can feel like competitive colouring.
Why cleaning robots? Was there something appealing about flipping the idea of robots tidying up into them making a total mess?
A very early prototype of Splatterbot involved robots cleaning up mess. That flipped when I realised it was more fun to make mess! The cleaning robots ended up staying. I think the idea of a cleaning robot making mess added to the absurdity of the game.
What was the toughest part of bringing Splatterbot to life, especially as a local multiplayer title?
The toughest part of developing Splatterbot as a part-time solo developer is finding time. Balancing full-time work and other life commitments with game development is very challenging. My strategy was to try and do at least one thing every day, so I was always making some progress.
How important was the Nintendo Switch as a platform for you, and did it present any unique opportunities or hurdles?
The Nintendo Switch is the perfect console for local multiplayer games, so it was very important for me to bring Splatterbot to the platform. I put a lot of effort into ensuring the Nintendo Switch and Steam versions launched simultaneously. Being a lifelong Nintendo fan, there’s also something special about launching your own game on their console.
With all the frantic dashing, splashing, and power-ups, how did you approach balancing the game so it feels fun but fair?
Splatterbot was balanced around its power-ups. Players will have to decide between painting optimally or going for a power-up. The match length is intentionally short to lower the stakes and provide a friendlier competitive environment.
Who do you imagine having the most fun with Splatterbot?
Splatterbot is best enjoyed with others. I can see it being enjoyed in all kinds of social situations. Game nights with friends and family or holiday gatherings. It’s very easy to pick up and play, so it’s perfect for gamers and non-gamers alike.
Do you have a favourite arena or sneaky tactic you use to secure the win?
It’s hard to pick a favourite arena, but it’s probably the Plaza. It was the first level I created, and it’s the most straightforward.
I’ve been playing Splatterbot quite competitively around my house, and I can safely say it’s an absolute blast. If you’re looking for a chaotic, colorful couch game to dive into with friends or family, keep an eye out for Splatterbot when it launches on September 4th. You can check it out on the eShop – Splatterbot / eShop Download / Nintendo eShop
