Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Brings Island Life to a Whole New Level on January 15
Whether you're about to embark on your first island adventure or you're a seasoned resident with bells to spare, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is about to feel fresher than ever. Launching January 15, 2026, for Nintendo Switch 2, this upgraded edition of the beloved life sim promises enhanced visuals, brand-new features, and a whole lot more villagers to play with.
What's New in Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
Nintendo’s latest Direct revealed that Animal Crossing is evolving alongside its next-gen console. Here’s what players can expect from the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition:
- 4K resolution in TV mode for even crisper, more vibrant visuals.
- Right Joy-Con 2 mouse functionality allows for more intuitive decorating, writing messages on the bulletin board, and creating Custom Designs.
- A new in-game megaphone utilizes the built-in mic to help you call out to locate villagers.
- Online play for up to 12 players (a first for the series!) when all players are using the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
- CameraPlay lets you connect a USB webcam and actually see your friends while exploring each other’s islands in real time.
These upgrades are bundled into a new edition of the game, available digitally or physically for $89.99 CAD. Already own the game on Nintendo Switch? Nintendo's got you covered: an Upgrade Pack will be available for $6.99 CAD, giving you access to all the new Nintendo Switch 2 features without buying the full game again.
Free Update for Everyone (Yes, Even Original Switch Players!)
Whether you're on the original Nintendo Switch or upgrading to Switch 2, you’ll receive a major free update on January 15. Here’s what’s sailing your way:
1. The Resort Hotel: A New Place to Vacation and Decorate
A new pier-side resort run by Kapp’n’s family opens up guest room design opportunities, a souvenir shop, and even outfits mannequins for visiting tourists. Think of it like Happy Home Paradise meets beachfront getaway.
2. Slumber Island: Design. Build. Collaborate.
Nintendo Switch Online members will gain access to Slumber Island, a collaborative design space where up to three full island layouts can be saved. Choose your layout, collaborate in real time, access inventories, and decorate with friends.
3. Home Storage Upgrades and Resetti’s Return
Tired of limited space? Now you can upgrade your storage to hold 9,000 items, including, including plants like trees and shrubs. And if you need a fresh island reset, Mr. Resetti is back with a new island-tidying Reset Service.
4. Nintendo Collaborations and amiibo Additions
New collectible items include:
- Nintendo-themed furniture and consoles, such as the Ultra Hand.
- LEGO items are making their in-game debut.
- Play select classic Nintendo games by interacting with console items if you're a Switch Online subscriber.
- Use The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series amiibo to invite special characters and unlock themed items.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition isn’t just a resolution bump; it’s a total enhancement of the island life experience. With cross-version updates, expanded social features, and deeper customization tools, Nintendo is ensuring there's never been a better time to visit your island getaway.
Mark your calendars for January 15, whether you're upgrading your hardware or updating your game, a new wave of island adventures awaits.