'Animal Crossing' (Image: Nintendo)
The Nintendo Switch is welcoming new villagers on January 15, 2026, with the release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
For $64.99, the game offers improved graphics with enhanced resolution, as well as utilizing the new console’s USB port to allow users to install a camera and display their faces while playing with friends online.
The Switch 2’s built-in microphone lets players use a megaphone feature to call out for specific residents in the village. Users can also take advantage of the Joy-Con 2’s mouse controls to decorate, make custom designs, and write messages on bulletin boards. Now, up to 12 users can play together online and communicate via the Switch 2’s new game chat.
Owners of the Nintendo Switch 2 who already have a copy of Animal Crossing: New Horizons have no reason to worry, as they can buy the upgrade pack for $4.99.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Free Update Version 3.0 is a free software update that will also be made available for all Animal Crossing players on January 15, 2026. The update will introduce a new resort hotel on the water, where players can decorate rooms based on different themes, earning them hotel tickets that can be spent on souvenirs and character outfits.
Villagers now have the option to craft DIY goods for the island, which can also be delivered to obtain hotel tickets. The souvenir shop will now feature Nintendo products, retro toys and classic game items to furnish the village. Players with a Nintendo Switch Online membership can play retro Nintendo games on the consoles purchased from the shop.
Scanning amiibo accessories in the hotel invites guests to the island. Players who scan amiibo from The Legend of Zelda can enjoy characters from the franchise visiting their island, as well as collectables from the series. Scanning Splatoon amiibo similarly unlocks characters and memorabilia from the games.
Tom Nook has welcomed LEGO items into his shop in the new update, allowing users to purchase LEGO products, clothes, and wallpapers. Entire rooms can be made of LEGO. Another added feature is an enhanced storage for players that can store up to 9,000 items, which now include trees, shrubs and flowers.
The mole, Resetti, can also be used by villagers to reset entire areas. Players can also create and save up to three islands when playing online, including an updated Luna’s Dream World called “Slumber Island.” Online friends can meet up with each other on their own slumber islands and play together.
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