Animal Crossing: New Horizons Enhanced Edition for Nintendo Switch 2

Exciting Updates for Animal Crossing: New Horizons Fans

Nintendo has announced a major update 3.0 for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, set to launch alongside a new version of the game for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Both the update 3.0 and the Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons are scheduled to release on January 15th, 2026. The Switch 2 Edition will be available for $64.99 as a complete package, or for $4.99 as an upgrade for existing owners.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been captivating players since its debut on the Nintendo Switch in 2020.

What to Expect in the New Update

Exciting features are on the horizon for your island getaway, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned Island Resident.

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will introduce enhanced elements such as higher resolution graphics, mouse controls, an in-game megaphone utilizing the system’s microphone, online multiplayer for up to 12 players, and CameraPlay.

But that’s not all – a free update is also on the way for Animal Crossing: New Horizons on the Nintendo Switch, arriving on January 15. This update will feature a new resort hotel managed by Kapp’n’s family, new themed items and characters, exclusive content like Slumber Island for Nintendo Switch Online members, and more. The new content will be playable on both versions of the game starting January 15.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons invites players to craft their own island paradise at their own pace, engaging in activities like gardening, fishing, decorating, bug and fossil hunting, interacting with animal residents, and more. The game’s real-time day and night cycles provide a dynamic experience with surprises throughout the year.

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will bring several enhancements for Nintendo Switch 2 players to enjoy, including:

• Improved resolution (4K in TV mode).
• Mouse controls with the right Joy-Con 2 controller for interior decoration, creating Custom Designs, and composing handwritten messages on bulletin boards.
• Locate residents by calling their names using the in-game megaphone item and the built-in Nintendo Switch 2 microphone.
• Participate in 12-player online sessions if all players are using the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
• Engage in multiplayer sessions via CameraPlay, connecting a compatible USB camera (sold separately) to see friends’ reactions in-game while exploring the island together.

Players can purchase the digital or physical versions of the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for $64.99 MSRP upon its launch on January 15. Existing owners of the game on the Nintendo Switch can opt for a paid upgrade pack for $4.99 MSRP. Pre-orders for the upgrade pack are currently available on the My Nintendo Store and Nintendo eShop.

Both versions of the game will receive new features to enhance the gameplay experience, including:

• Resort Hotel’s Grand Opening: A new resort hotel managed by Kapp’n’s family is opening on the island, offering guest room decoration opportunities and a souvenir shop with new furniture and clothing options.
• Enhanced Island Life: Resetti provides a Reset Service for a fresh start, home storage can now hold up to 9,000 items, and players can store trees, shrubs, and flowers in their homes.
• Slumber Island: Nintendo Switch Online members can design and save up to three islands, play with friends online, customize island layouts, and invite residents from their home islands.
• Exciting Collaborations: Collect Nintendo-themed items and classic consoles in-game, enjoy select classic Nintendo titles with Nintendo Switch Online, experience LEGO items for the first time, and unlock special items inspired by The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series with amiibo support.

Exciting new adventures await players when both the free update and Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition launch on January 15.