: The DLC can be installed as a separate NSP + unlocker (e.g., using a title key or a mod like linkalho to fake a Nintendo Account). However, Side Order works fine offline, so it’s actually a good fit for hacked Switches.
The DLC and update schedule for Splatoon 3 is not officially announced. However, Nintendo typically releases regular updates and DLC packs every few months.
For Splatoon 3 , the base NSP is just the beginning. The game is a live-service shooter, meaning that without updates, you are locked out of nearly all core features. If you are looking for a combination, you are likely seeking the complete, modern experience: the latest patch (Ver. 7.0.0 or higher), the Side Order expansion, and all seasonal catalog items.
