Get ready to pack your virtual bags and return to your island paradise, because a massive wave of new content is on the horizon. In a surprise announcement that has sent the gaming community into a frenzy, Nintendo has revealed a comprehensive new chapter for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, headlined by a stunning Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and a complementary free update for all players.
The announcement, made via a charming and feature-packed trailer, confirmed that this monumental update will go live on January 15, 2026. This two-pronged approach ensures that both owners of the new hardware and loyal fans on the original Nintendo Switch will have new reasons to revisit their islands.
A New Coat of Paint: The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Unveiled
For players ready to upgrade their console, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a visual and technical treat. Leveraging the enhanced power of the new hardware, the game will finally support breathtaking 4K resolution when played on a television. Imagine seeing the intricate patterns on a butterfly's wings, the individual blades of grass swaying in the wind, and the sparkling ocean waves in stunning clarity. The iconic art style remains intact but is now richer, smoother, and more immersive than ever before.
But the upgrades aren't just about looks. Nintendo is using the additional power under the hood to expand the social experience. The popular multiplayer mode, which previously allowed up to eight players on one island, is being expanded to support a bustling twelve players simultaneously. This opens up new possibilities for massive island parties, treasure hunts, and community events.
New hardware also brings new ways to play. The update will introduce support for the Joy-Con 2 mouse control, promising more precise decorating and designing. In an incredibly charming social addition, if you connect a USB camera, the game can now display your own live reaction—your face—in a small bubble above your character's head while playing with friends, making those virtual interactions feel more personal and joyful than ever.
The upgrade path is mercifully simple. Existing owners of New Horizons on the original Switch can purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade for just $4.99 via the Nintendo eShop. New players can jump in directly for $64.99.
To see this island paradise in all its next-gen glory, watch the official announcement trailer right here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxbYIb5Ry7E
A Free Update for Everyone: New Horizons, New Opportunities
In a move celebrated by the entire player base, Nintendo is also releasing a massive free version 3.0 update that will be available to all players, regardless of whether they are on the original Switch or the Switch 2.
The headline addition is the all-new Hotel building. Players can now construct and manage a hotel on their island, taking on the role of interior designer for its various rooms. With themes like "beach," "rustic," and "modern" available, you can flex your creative muscles to satisfy a rotating cast of guest animals. Successfully impressing your guests will reward you with Hotel Tickets, a new currency that can be exchanged for a host of exclusive, special items.
Fans of a certain frantic mole will be delighted to learn that Resetti has a new job. While he's (thankfully) no longer needed to yell at players for resetting, he’s now offering a helpful island tidying service. For a small fee, Resetti will help you clear weeds, pick up stray branches, and generally whip your island back into shape.
Perhaps the most magical new feature is the introduction of a Dream World. This acts as a second, entirely separate island that players can visit only in their sleep. This dream island serves as a pure creative sandbox, where players can experiment with complete freedom. The weather, the time of day, and even the inhabitants can be hand-picked, allowing for limitless seasonal photoshoots and landscape design without affecting your main island.
Finally, the update is packed with a plethora of new items to collect. The most exciting of these are classic game consoles that you can place in your home. In a wonderful nod to nostalgia, these consoles will even grant you access to selected Nintendo classics—provided you have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
With this dual-pronged update, Nintendo is not only showcasing the potential of its new hardware but also reaffirming its long-term commitment to one of its most beloved communities. January 15, 2026, can't come soon enough for mayors and islanders everywhere.
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