You've battled through the ink-splattered chaos, navigated treacherous terrain, and finally, you've seen the credits roll after clearing Splatoon 3's Hero Mode. But what happens after Alterna? It turns out, the adventure isn't quite over. For those who crave more, there are still layers of content and rewards waiting to be uncovered.
Clearing Hero Mode itself is a significant achievement, and the game recognizes this by showering you with some pretty cool gear. You'll snag the Hero Suit Replica, Hero Boots Replica, and Hero Mindset Replica, all sporting the distinct Cuttlegear brand and offering useful abilities like Quick Respawn and Ink Resistance Up. It's a nice nod to Agent 3's original look, giving you a tangible piece of that journey to wear in your own battles. And let's not forget the Hero Shot Replica weapon – while its appearance might be different, its stats are identical to the trusty Splattershot, so you're getting a familiar powerhouse with a fresh coat of paint. Plus, you'll receive a memorial sticker featuring Smallfry, the Squid Sisters, and Cap'n Cuttle, perfect for personalizing your locker (just make sure you've played at least one Turf War match to access it!).
But the real treasure trove for the completionist lies in what comes after the initial clear. If you're looking to revisit some of the game's toughest challenges, you can actually fight Mr. Grizz again. Just head over to Future Utopia Island, find the bear statue near the Squid Sisters Camp, and select 'Relive Memories' followed by 'Return to Rocket Battle.' It's a chance to test your skills against him once more, and you can even skip straight to the second phase if you're feeling confident.
Now, for the ultimate test: completing all the stages in Hero Mode unlocks a bonus stage called 'After Alterna.' This isn't just another level; it's positioned as the final, incredibly difficult challenge. The reference material specifically mentions it has 'few checkpoints,' so be prepared for a serious test of endurance and skill. It's the perfect place to really sharpen your abilities and prove your mastery.
And what do you get for conquering this ultimate gauntlet? Plenty! Clearing 'After Alterna' rewards you with two new titles for your nameplate: 'Alternan' and 'World Champ.' You'll also unlock the Teddy Band headgear and the final Alterna Log: Extra Log, which you can revisit anytime. These rewards are a testament to your dedication and a stylish way to show off your accomplishments.
Beyond just clearing stages, there's another layer of exploration: surveying all the sites in Alterna. Once you've meticulously inked every corner and cleared out those 'Parts Unknown' spaces, you'll unlock a special drone. This drone, found near the Squid Sisters Camp and requiring 999 Power Eggs to operate, can collect items for you daily. It's a neat little helper that adds another layer of engagement to the world.
And for those who are always connected, clearing all sites also grants access to a special wallpaper through the Splatnet 3 app. It comes in two sizes, so you can deck out your devices with a piece of Alterna's mystery.
So, while the main story might conclude, Splatoon 3 offers a wealth of post-game content for those willing to dig a little deeper. From unique gear and challenging boss rematches to a brutal bonus stage and helpful drones, the world of Alterna still has plenty to offer long after the credits have rolled.
