Nintendo Life ranks Splatoon games and major DLC using reader ratings, arguing that the series has grown from a risky Wii U debut into one of Nintendo’s key franchises. The rankings value refined online play, inventive single-player challenges and expansions that add meaningful content without disadvantaging players who do not buy them.

– Splatoon 3: Side Order ranks sixth, praised for its weapon-upgrade options and replayability despite limited stage and objective variety.
– Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion ranks fifth, described as a challenging, story-rich DLC that substantially improves on the base game’s single-player mode.
– Splatoon 3 ranks fourth for near-perfect refinement of the series formula, though it lacks a major new idea.
– Splatoon 2 ranks third for successfully expanding the original’s multiplayer foundations on Switch with strong art, audio and numerous improvements.
– The original Splatoon ranks second, recognised as an exceptional multiplayer experience that stood out among Nintendo’s traditionally single-player-focused games.