Animal Crossing: New Horizons Joins Switch 2 January 15th, Alongside a Brand New Content Update
- Matt Hill
- Oct 31
- 3 min read
Looks like there are some new reasons to return to your island.
When Nintendo announced that they had finished updating Animal Crossing: New Horizons a few years back, many fans of the series were disappointed by the news. Still, it was understandable given that the game was released in March 2020. However, it appears Nintendo has done a slight U-turn on its statement as a new Switch 2 version of the game is coming January 15th alongside a brand new 3.0 update packed full of even more content to enjoy.
The game's Switch 2 port will release simultaneously with the 3.0 content update. While the update will add features to both Switch and Switch 2 versions, some features are exclusive to the new console. Take a look below to see the Switch 2 exclusive additions.
Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive Changes
Improved Resolution.
New Megaphone item - Allows players to call and locate islanders through the built-in microphone.
Online sessions can host up to 12 people instead of the previous 8 on Nintendo Switch.
Mouse control functionality via the right Joy-Con 2 for more control over room customisation, designing, and leaving messages on the bulletin board.
CameraPlay puts a chat bubble above your villager's head so you and your friends can see players' reactions whilst exploring together.
Despite the graphical improvements and 12-party online sessions, the bulk of the new content is coming via update 3.0, which will bring hours and hours of fresh content to enjoy.
One major addition to the island is the Resort Hotel, which will open on the pier, allowing players to design themed rooms, have guests stay and visit their island, as well as a new souvenir shop with exclusive items to purchase.
The Resort Hotel will also be joined by Slumber Island, which allows players to design up to 3 additional islands in the dreamscape, granting players more control, including choosing a tree's growth cycle. To use this feature, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required.
There's also an array of new in-game collaborations, with LEGO, Splatoon and Zelda having unique furniture and cosmetics to unlock. Alongside the cosmetics, four new islanders are joining the game, with two inspired by the Zelda series and the other two by Splatoon.
Free Update Ver. 3.0 Content
Resort Hotel's Grand Opening - A brand new resort hotel is opening on the pier, run by Kapp'n and his family. Guests from other islands can visit the resort and island, whilst players will get to decorate rooms based on certain design criteria. New clothing and furniture will also be available in the resort's souvenir shop, and dress-up mannequins with outfits guests can wear whilst touring the players' islands.
Slumber Island - Players with a Nintendo Switch Online membership can get some rest and design three additional islands via Slumber Island. The islands can be small, medium or large and design entirely new islands without losing their main home.
Resetti Returns Alongside Booster Storage - Resetti is back, but this time he's running a helpful clean-up service, helping players keep on top of tidying their island. Alongside this, players can expand their max storage from 5000 to 9000, and even store trees, shrubs and flowers.
New Collaborations - New items and islanders are on their way through new in-game collaborations. Letting players adorn their villagers' house with an array of Nintendo consoles, LEGO, Splatoon and Zelda cosmetics. The four new islanders: Tulin, Mineru, Cece and Viché draw inspiration from Splatoon and The Legend of Zelda, the latter two being Squireels designed after Callie and Marie from the Splatoon Series.
The Switch 2 version will cost £54.99 when it launches on January 15th; however, players who own the game can buy the Switch 2 upgrade pack for £4.19.
How do you feel about the new content? Are you thinking of purchasing the Switch 2 upgrade? Please let us know in the comments below.
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