Animal Crossing New Horizons Launches on Nintendo Switch 2 with Major Update

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 with 4K visuals and exciting new content on Jan. 15.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons Sets Sail for Nintendo Switch 2 with 4K Upgrade and Free Resort Hotel Update

Nintendo has officially announced that Animal Crossing: New Horizons will make its grand debut on the Nintendo Switch 2 with enhanced visuals and brand-new features starting January 15. Alongside the upgraded edition, players on the original Switch will also receive a free content update packed with new experiences, items, and gameplay options.

Get ready, islanders — your favorite cozy getaway is getting an exciting upgrade! Nintendo confirmed that Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will launch worldwide on January 15, bringing 4K visuals, new tools, and expanded online multiplayer to the much-loved life-simulation game.

Whether you’re starting a fresh island or returning to your old paradise, this new edition promises to make your island life even more immersive and social. With 4K resolution in TV mode, mouse controls, and an in-game megaphone that uses the Switch 2’s built-in microphone, players can now interact with their virtual world like never before.

The new version also supports online play for up to 12 players, making it easier for larger groups of friends to visit each other’s islands and explore together. Through CameraPlay, players can even connect a compatible USB camera to see each other’s reactions live while building, decorating, or fishing together.

But that’s not all — Nintendo has a surprise for players who already own the original Animal Crossing: New Horizons on the first Switch. A free update will also roll out on the same day, January 15, bringing new in-game content across both editions.

What’s New in the Free Update:

Resort Hotel by Kapp’n’s Family:
A luxurious new resort hotel is opening on your island’s pier, managed by Kapp’n’s family. Players can decorate guest rooms, attract off-island visitors, and shop for new themed furniture and clothing in the hotel’s souvenir shop.

Island Life Made Easier:
The legendary Mr. Resetti returns with a “Reset Service,” allowing players to tidy up and reorganize their islands more efficiently. Home storage has also expanded — now holding up to 9,000 items, including trees, shrubs, and flowers.

Slumber Island for Online Members:
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can design and store up to three different islands, collaborate with friends, and invite new residents from their main island.

Nintendo & LEGO Collaborations:
Classic Nintendo items such as the Ultra Hand and old console collectibles return to the game, alongside brand-new LEGO® furniture sets. Players can also use The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon amiibo to invite special characters and unlock unique items from those beloved franchises.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will be available in both digital and physical formats for $64.99, while current Switch owners can purchase a $4.99 upgrade pack for the enhanced experience. Pre-orders are already live on the My Nintendo Store and Nintendo eShop.

With its refreshed visuals, expanded features, and community-driven updates, Animal Crossing: New Horizons continues to be a timeless favorite — now more beautiful and interactive than ever before.