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We expected it when the Nintendo Switch 2 was announced, but we had to wait until October 30 for Nintendo to make it official. Animal Crossing New Horizons will officially arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2 on January 15, 2026. This new edition will launch alongside a free update available on the same day.
The Animal Crossing Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is real
The Nintendo Switch 2 edition of the game will feature enhanced graphics, including 4K resolution in TV mode and improved visual effects. Players will now be able to explore their islands using mouse controls. The right Joy-Con 2 can be used to decorate interiors, create custom designs, and even write handwritten bulletin board messages. Exclusive to the Animal Crossing Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, players will also be able to locate island residents by calling their names using a new in-game megaphone, which takes advantage of the built-in microphone on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Online play is getting a major upgrade as well : up to 12 players can now join the same session, perfect for trading turnips or hanging out together. The new camera feature will let you see your friends’ reactions in real time while playing. As for pricing, players who already own Animal Crossing New Horizons on the original Switch can upgrade for $4.99, while the full game will retail for $64.99 MSRP.
A major free update for everybody
But that’s not all. Regardless of platform, all players will receive the new Version 3.0 update of Animal Crossing New Horizons. It introduces a new resort hotel run by Kapp’n’s family, where you can invite guests from outside your island to help decorate their rooms and more. Naturally, you’ll find new furniture, clothing, and souvenirs available for purchase, and you’ll even be able to create outfits for your guests to wear. Several long-awaited features are also arriving.
Resetti returns, letting you reset your island, home storage can now hold up to 9,000 items, including trees, shrubs, and flowers. And the biggest addition of all : players with a Nintendo Switch Online membership will finally be able to design and save up to three separate islands. You’ll still be able to choose each island’s size and layout, collaborate with friends, decorate freely, access your inventory, and invite residents from your main island.
New collaborations are also on the way: Nintendo Switch Online members will be able to play select classic Nintendo titles in-game by interacting with console items. LEGO-themed items will make their debut on January 15, 2026, and amiibo support will allow players to invite special characters and unlock exclusive items inspired by beloved series like The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon
Source : Nintendo Today
