After booming on the Nintendo Switch as one of the coziest games to play during the pandemic, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is set to receive a new major update next year – bringing both new content for the original release and bringing the game native to the Nintendo Switch 2. Both of these updates will arrive on 15 January 2026.
On Nintendo Switch 2, the game targets higher resolution output in TV mode up to 4K, adds mouse style controls using the right Joy Con 2 for decorating, Custom Designs and handwritten bulletin board messages, and introduces an in game megaphone that uses the system’s built in microphone to call island residents by name. Online sessions will also expand support to up to 12 players when everyone in the lobby is using the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, and CameraPlay lets you connect a compatible USB camera to see friends’ reactions in game while you explore together.
A free update for both platforms launches the same day. Highlights include a resort hotel on the pier run by Kapp’n’s family, new themed items and characters, and extra benefits for Nintendo Switch Online members such as Slumber Island, which lets subscribers design and save up to three separate islands, collaborate online with friends, choose island size and layout, access inventory and decorate, and invite residents from a home island.
The resort hotel will see players work to decorate guest rooms, browse a souvenir shop for new furniture and clothing, and dress mannequins with outfits that visitors can wear. A reset service will also be available from Resetti, home storage will be expanded to up to 9,000 items, and you will finally have the ability to store trees, shrubs and flowers.
Additionally, players will be able to collect new items such as the Ultra Hand and classic consoles for your island. Nintendo Switch Online members can play select classic Nintendo titles in game when interacting with specific console items. LEGO themed items will also debut. Support for select The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series amiibo lets you invite certain characters and unlock items inspired by those series.
The Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons will launch with an MSRP of $64.99 USD or local equivalent, in both physical and digital formats. However, a cheaper paid upgrade pack for existing Nintendo Switch version owners will be available for just $4.99 USD or local equivalent via the Nintendo eShop.
