How to Access Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion
In this article, you'll learn how to access the content included in the Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion DLC.
Important
In order to play the Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion DLC, you must also have Splatoon 2 (sold separately).
Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion is a single-player adventure that spans 80 missions and gives you the ability to play as an Octoling for the very first time! When you download Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion, you’ll also receive immediate access to special in-game gear (Studio Octophones & Octo Layered LS).
Users can either purchase Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion on Nintendo eShop or, from 22 April 2022, download it at no additional cost as part of a paid Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
Use the table below to understand the difference between purchasing the DLC and downloading it for free as a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member.
Nintendo eShop Purchase | Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Membership | |
Cost | Price available on Nintendo eShop | Included as part of the membership for no additional cost |
Who can play | All users on the console to which the Nintendo Account used to purchase the DLC has loaded the virtual game card The Nintendo Account used to purchase the DLC can also play on any console using the online licence setting | Any Nintendo Account with an individual membership All Nintendo Accounts that are part of a Nintendo Account family group with a family membership |
When it can be played | Indefinitely | For the duration of the active membership |
Internet requirements | Internet connection not required to access content Internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online membership required to use online features | Internet connection required when launching the game |
What to do
Will you be accessing Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion through a Nintendo eShop purchase or through a free download as a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member?
Purchase the Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion DLC on Nintendo eShop, if you haven't already.
Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion must be downloaded to your console to access the content. If it has been deleted, it can be redownloaded from Nintendo eShop.
Ensure that your Splatoon 2 software has been updated to the latest version.
Launch Splatoon 2.
The entrance to the new content is in the alleyway in the upper-right corner of Inkopolis Square. You will be prompted to "Listen closely..." as you approach the silver gate. Choose Enter to begin your new adventure!
For the bonus items, you will be prompted to open a package when you start Splatoon 2 after purchasing the DLC. From Inkopolis Square, press the + Button to see your new gear. The Studio Octophones are in the "Head" section, and the Octo Layered LS is in the "Clothes" section.
If the DLC is not appearing, you may have downloaded DLC for a region that is incompatible with your version of Splatoon 2.
Begin a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership or join a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack family membership, if you do not already have an active membership.
Select the Nintendo eShop icon on the HOME Menu to open Nintendo eShop.
Select the Nintendo Switch Online menu on the left.
Under "Content for Expansion Pack Members", select the icon for the Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion DLC.
Under "Content for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Members", select Download.
Download the Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion DLC for free.
Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion must be downloaded to your console to access the content. If it has been deleted, it can be redownloaded from Nintendo eShop.
Ensure that your Splatoon 2 software has been updated to the latest version.
Launch Splatoon 2.
The entrance to the new mission is in the alleyway in the upper-right corner of Inkopolis Square. You will be prompted to "Listen closely..." as you approach the silver gate. Choose Enter to begin your new adventure!
For the bonus items, you will be prompted to open a package when you start Splatoon 2 after downloading the DLC. From Inkopolis Square, press the + Button to see your new gear. The Studio Octophones are in the "Head" section, and the Octo Layered LS is in the "Clothes" section.
If the DLC is not appearing, you may have downloaded DLC for a region that is incompatible with your version of Splatoon 2.