A new Animal Crossing New Horizons update is here, and it’s bigger than anyone expected! I have to admit, this game means a lot to me personally. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, Animal Crossing became my safe space, a calm little corner of comfort when the world felt uncertain. I spent hours building, rebuilding, and (let’s be honest) endlessly “under construction” on my island.
Now that I’ve got my Nintendo Switch 2, it feels like the perfect moment to jump back in and finally keep working on my island again. With the new update launching on January 15, 2026, I couldn’t be happier to return and see everything that’s been added. The update arrives alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, bringing stunning visuals, new creative tools, and exciting features that make it feel like coming home but even better than before.
1. Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Enhancements
The Animal Crossing New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition takes the island life to a new level. Thanks to the enhanced resolution and smoother graphics, players will notice sharper textures and more vibrant colors than ever before.
It’s not just a visual upgrade; the new system also introduces Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, offering a more intuitive way to move furniture, write messages, and design patterns.
2. New Mouse Controls and Gameplay Features
Mouse controls can now be used to redecorate homes, create custom designs, and even write on bulletin boards. These precision controls make designing your dream island easier and faster.
Another fun addition is the megaphone, available at Nook’s Cranny. This clever tool lets players call out to their villagers through the built-in microphone, perfect for finding them when they’re wandering around the island.
3. Improved Online Multiplayer
Multiplayer just got better. Up to 12 players can now meet online if everyone has the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Players can also video chat using a compatible USB camera, showing their real faces inside the game for more interactive sessions.
This makes visiting friends’ islands feel more personal and immersive than ever before.
4. The Resort Hotel on the Pier
The new Resort Hotel is one of the biggest additions in the free update. Managed by Kapp’n’s family, the seaside hotel allows you to decorate guest rooms with themed furniture, helping the family attract visitors to the island.
Players earn hotel tickets for decorating rooms, which can be redeemed for exclusive items in the souvenir shop run by Grahams.
5. Redeemable Hotel Tickets and Rewards
Hotel tickets unlock access to exclusive decor, furniture, and outfits that guests can try on. You can recommend outfits matching your island’s theme or season, adding another layer of creativity. Amiibo cards can also be used to invite special guests to the hotel for unique interactions.
6. New Cleanup and Storage Upgrades
A long-requested feature has arrived: expanded storage capacity. You can now store up to 9,000 items, including trees, shrubs, and flowers.
Additionally, Reese and Cyrus’s assistant Reetti now runs a cleanup service. You can hire him to tidy specific areas, remove flowers, or clear custom designs. Collected items are safely stored for later use.
7. Introducing Slumber Island
Slumber Island is the new dream experience. Guided by Luna, players enter a peaceful dream world where they can build, terraform, and decorate freely.
You can create up to three different Slumber Islands in small, medium, or large sizes. Change the time of day, adjust weather, and even invite friends to help build and decorate. It’s a creative playground designed for pure relaxation.
8. Collaboration Items and Amiibo Additions
Fans of Nintendo’s legacy will love the new collaboration items. By helping the hotel thrive, players unlock retro Nintendo products like classic game systems that can play select titles through Nintendo Switch Online.
Through Nook Shopping, players can also purchase LEGO-themed furniture and clothing, such as tables, wallpaper, and shirts, available in multiple colors.
9. The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon Crossovers
The update introduces Zelda-themed furniture and outfits by scanning compatible amiibo figures. New Zelda characters like Tulin and Minou can visit or even move to your island.
There’s also a Splatoon crossover, bringing fashion-forward visitors Cece and VJ, plus vibrant decor items to showcase your “Inkopolis” styleAnimal Crossing New Horizons.
10. Release Date and Upgrade Details
The Animal Crossing New Horizons update and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will both launch on January 15, 2026.
Existing players can upgrade to the new edition by purchasing an Upgrade Pack. The free update will be available for all players, regardless of console version.
I’m so happy to see Animal Crossing getting this kind of love again. Between the Resort Hotel, Slumber Island, and all the crossover items, there’s so much to explore. I’ll definitely be sharing my progress once I start updating my island (again!).
FAQs
1. When does the Animal Crossing New Horizons update release?
The update launches on January 15, 2026, the same day as the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
2. Is the update free for all players?
Yes, the update is completely free for anyone who owns Animal Crossing New Horizons.
3. Do I need a Nintendo Switch 2 to access the new content?
No, most new features (like the Resort Hotel and Slumber Island) are part of the free update available on all consoles.
4. Can I still play with friends using the older Switch version?
Yes, though only Switch 2 players will access features like mouse controls and 12-player sessions.
5. What amiibo are supported in this update?
Amiibo from The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series unlock exclusive furniture, characters, and clothing.
Checkout the official video here:
