Splatoon 3 getting physical release with Expansion Pass DLC in Japan (UPDATE)

Nintendo has announced that they’ll be releasing a special physical edition of Splatoon 3 in Japan. In addition to the base game, this version will include the previously released Expansion Pass DLC (most likely pre-downloaded on the physical cartridge).

The Expansion Pass DLC is comprised of the additional single player campaign Side Order, as well as Inkopolis Plaza. Previously, both of these components were only available digitally. This new boxed version of the game will also come with a free three-month subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.

There has been no announcement of a release for this outside of Japan. If you’re a collector looking for a complete physical copy of the game, you’ll most likely need to import. Fortunately, there are no regional differences and the game should be fully compatible with a Switch from any region.

The Splatoon 3 + Expansion Pass DLC physical edition will be available in Japan on July 18th, 2024.

UPDATE: Nintendo Europe has announced that they’ll also be selling this physical package, and it’s set to arrive on July 25th, 2024. You can get a look at the European packaging for the product below.