Square Enix’s take on Splatoon, Foamstars, has managed to have a longer life than Concord. Originally launched on February 6, 2024, Foamstars is a 4v4 team-based foam party shooter that is now available to all PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 players free of charge. A PlayStation Plus subscription is also not required to play the game. Coinciding with the free-to-play transition is Foamstars season 8, Diamond Jam, running until November 7 at 5:00 pm Pacific (8:00 pm Eastern).
New elements this season include Diamond Chips, tokens that can be earned through playing the game. Tokens can be traded at the Diamond Trade for skins, slideboards, emotes, and more. The game is currently offering a special login bonus for players to obtain Diamond Chips. In addition, five maps are being added to Smash The Star: Shoreline Shoppin’ Spree, Rubber Duck’s Spa-larious Oasis, Fusion Coaster Kingdom, Sing Swing Circus, and Dancefloor Dreamland. Those who play in the private party mode can enjoy four extra maps from Happy Bath Survival. Squad Missions have added new wave boss battles and limited-time season events including Ranked Party and Extreme Party.
Season Pass players will receive a foam gun skin for the Baristador, along with slideboard skins and a Ramzey character skin for free. Like many games with season passes, players can earn XP by completing battles, missions, and Weekly Challenges to earn various rewards such as skins and items. A Premium Season Pass is available for $5.99, unlocking more rewards.
The updated business model for Foamstars is very likely what PlayStation will choose to do if and when it relaunches Concord.