Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition Revealed With Free Update

Nintendo is revitalizing the beloved life simulation experience with Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition, set to launch alongside a substantial free update for all players on January 15, 2026. Pre-orders for the new edition will open shortly, giving fans an opportunity to secure their copy ahead of the release. This dual release strategy ensures both newcomers and existing players have compelling reasons to return to their virtual islands.

The Switch 2 Edition introduces a suite of enhancements designed to leverage the new hardware’s capabilities. Players can expect higher resolution visuals, including 4K support in TV mode, though the framerate remains locked at 30fps for stability. A novel mouse control feature using the right Joy-Con 2 controller allows for more precise interior decorating, custom design creation, and even writing messages by hand on the bulletin board. The in-game megaphone item now utilizes the Nintendo Switch 2’s built-in microphone, letting you call out for residents by name. Online play receives a significant boost, supporting sessions for up to 12 players when everyone is using the Switch 2 Edition. Additionally, the new CameraPlay feature enables you to connect a compatible USB camera, sold separately, to see your friends’ live reactions while exploring islands together.

Simultaneously, the free content update introduces a wealth of new activities and locations accessible in both the original and new editions of the game. A major addition is the Resort Hotel on the pier, managed by Kapp’n’s family. Players can help attract off-island guests by personally decorating guest rooms. A souvenir shop at the resort offers new furniture and clothing lines, and you can dress mannequins in outfits for the hotel’s visitors to wear.

Quality-of-life improvements are also a major focus. For those wanting a fresh start, Resetti offers a convenient Reset Service to help tidy up your entire island. Home storage receives a massive upgrade, now capable of holding up to 9,000 items, and for the first time, you can store trees, shrubs, and flowers in your home inventory.

Nintendo Switch Online members gain access to an exclusive feature called Slumber Island. This allows you to design and save up to three separate islands, selecting their size and layout. You can build and decorate these islands collaboratively with friends online, access your main inventory, and even invite residents from your home island to visit.

The update is also packed with new collaborative content. You can collect classic Nintendo items like the Ultra Hand and various console models to give your island a retro vibe. Nintendo Switch Online members can even play select classic Nintendo games directly within Animal Crossing by interacting with these console items. LEGO items are making their series debut, and using specific The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series amiibo figures will allow you to invite special characters and unlock themed items.

This announcement comes as a welcome surprise to a community that believed support for the title had concluded. Despite being the second best-selling Switch game with over 48 million copies sold since its March 2020 launch, a period that saw a surge in popularity due to global lockdowns, the game had seen little in the way of major DLC expansions in the subsequent years. The game was previously praised for its polished and expansive take on the classic formula, and this new wave of content promises to re-engage its massive player base.

For pricing, the standalone Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will cost $64.99 for both digital and physical copies. Owners of the original Nintendo Switch version can opt for a paid upgrade pack priced at $4.99. Pre-orders for this upgrade pack are available starting now through the My Nintendo Store and the Nintendo eShop.

(Source: IGN)