Inkling - number 64

The Inkling amiibo from the Super Smash Bros. Series expands gameplay primarily through its function as a trainable Figure Player. It is not decorative alone. It stores data, adapts in battle, and becomes a persistent opponent. Released in December 2018 alongside Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for Nintendo Switch, it represents the Inkling fighter as introduced to the Smash roster.
Published:
Figures - Team
Updated: February 27, 2026 at 12:01 AM

Inkling amiibo – Super Smash Bros. Series

Definition: This amiibo is a writable NFC figure. It can both read and write data. In compatible titles it saves fighter progression, behavior patterns, and customized settings. It is not limited to static unlock content.

Name differences between regions are minimal. It is sold simply as “Inkling” within the Super Smash Bros. Series branding. No substantial regional renaming occurred.

The figure shows the female Inkling variant. She stands in a wide, slightly angled stance. The knees are bent, weight shifted forward. In her hands she carries the Splattershot, held diagonally across the body. The translucent orange ink effect emerges from the weapon’s muzzle, forming a curved splash that supports the dynamic impression of motion. Her hair-tentacles are bright orange, flowing backward as if reacting to movement. She wears a white sleeveless top, black shorts, and pink sneakers with visible sole detail. The eyes are large, mask-like, with a sharp gaze. The base is the standard black Smash platform with the flame symbol in gold.

The pose references promotional artwork and in-game stance from Splatoon, where Inklings hold their ink weapons ready at waist height. It mirrors the character’s neutral combat posture seen in multiplayer matches. In Smash, the stance translates into readiness rather than aggression. The weapon angle and ink splash underline movement, not attack impact.

The Inkling originates from Splatoon (2015, Wii U). The character represents Nintendo’s modern multiplayer focus and a shift toward competitive online play. In Splatoon, Inklings are humanoid squid beings who battle by covering terrain in colored ink. The figure therefore carries that identity into Smash: mobility, area control, and resource management through ink mechanics.

Compatibility centers on Nintendo Switch. In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, scanning the amiibo creates a Figure Player (FP). The FP can be trained up to level 50. It learns from player behavior, develops tendencies such as shielding frequency or aerial usage, and can be equipped with Spirits for stat modification. Data is written directly onto the figure. The training process is incremental and visible over time.

In other compatible Nintendo Switch titles, the functionality is read-only and typically grants minor bonuses. In Splatoon 2, scanning unlocks bonus gear pieces and allows saving outfit presets. In Splatoon 3, similar gear rewards and photo mode options become available. In certain additional Nintendo titles that support generic amiibo functionality, the Inkling amiibo may grant small daily items or cosmetic extras, but without persistent write-back capability.

Physically, the figure feels stable. The ink effect acts as structural support between weapon and base. Paint application is clean but not overly glossy. Edges are defined, especially around the eyes and shoe details. It sits balanced, no visible leaning. The sculpt emphasizes movement without exaggeration.

In practical use, the value lies in long-term interaction. The amiibo becomes a stored opponent shaped by repeated matches. It functions as a training partner and a collectible object at the same time. Its importance is less about rarity and more about continuity between sessions.

Conclusion: The Inkling amiibo from the Super Smash Bros. Series offers measurable gameplay extension through writable fighter data and cross-title compatibility. Its design references its origin in Splatoon with accuracy. The figure stands as a material link between Nintendo’s competitive ink-based shooter and its crossover fighting series. The added value emerges gradually, through use rather than display.