Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Upgrade Arrives in January
▼ Summary
– Nintendo is releasing an enhanced Animal Crossing: New Horizons for Switch 2 on January 15, 2026, featuring 4K visuals, mouse controls, and an in-game megaphone.
– The upgraded game will cost $64.99 but offers a $4.99 upgrade pack for existing first-gen Switch owners.
– Mouse controls on the Joy-Con 2 enable decorating, custom designs, and bulletin board messages, while the megaphone helps locate villagers.
– A free update on January 15 adds a resort hotel, Resetti’s reset service, increased home storage, and Nintendo-themed items.
– Enhanced online features support up to 12 Switch 2 players, webcam use, and the ability to design and save multiple islands.
Nintendo is set to release a major upgrade for Animal Crossing: New Horizons on January 15th, 2026, specifically designed for the upcoming Switch 2 console. This enhanced version will deliver 4K resolution when played on a television, introduce mouse controls via the new Joy-Con 2 controller, and add a novel megaphone feature utilizing the system’s built-in microphone. The standalone game will be priced at $64.99, while existing owners of the original Switch version can purchase an upgrade pack for a much more affordable $4.99.
The new mouse controls will significantly improve precision for detailed tasks like interior decorating, creating custom patterns, and writing messages on the town bulletin board. The megaphone function allows players to call out the names of their animal villagers to locate them more easily across the island. Furthermore, the upgrade dramatically expands online multiplayer, supporting sessions with up to 12 other Switch 2 players simultaneously. A surprising addition is the integration of a webcam, opening new possibilities for in-game interaction.
In a generous move, a separate free update will be available on the same day for all players, regardless of whether they are on the original Switch or the new Switch 2. This free content introduces a brand-new resort hotel run by Kapp’n’s family, providing a fresh location for players to develop and visit. The notoriously grumpy mole, Mr. Resetti, makes a return, but this time he offers a helpful “reset service” that allows you to completely clear and clean your island, a boon for players seeking a fresh start.
Other significant improvements include a massive expansion to home storage, now capable of holding up to 9,000 individual items, which now conveniently includes trees, shrubs, and flowers. Players can also look forward to collecting new Nintendo-themed furniture and decorations. For Nintendo Switch Online subscribers, the update brings the ability to design and save three distinct island layouts for easy swapping during multiplayer visits. An exciting bonus feature lets players interact with Nintendo console items within their homes to launch and play a selection of classic Nintendo games directly from the Animal Crossing world.
(Source: The Verge)
