Animal Crossing: New Horizons is getting a hefty Version 3.0 update.
Nintendo has once again proven its unpredictability with the reveal of a brand-new content update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, adding all new content to the game for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. While the Nintendo Switch 2 edition will be a paid upgrade to the original game, the upcoming Version 3.0 additions will be free for all players.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on 15 January, 2026. Here's the reveal presentation:
Animal Crossing: New Horizons confirms Nintendo Switch 2 edition, launching in 2026
Nintendo is officially bringing Animal Crossing: New Horizons to the Nintendo Switch 2. The upcoming paid game upgrade will feature a few features and additions exclusive to the new-gen console, including a higher 4K resolution in TV mode.
There are a few more features included in this edition of the game. CameraPlay is now integrated into gameplay much like Mario Kart World, allowing players to display their faces above their Animal Crossing characters in-game. Additionally, Nintendo Switch 2 players will now be able to play with or host up to 12 players on an island, rather than eight.
The Joy-Con 2 controller will also support mouse controls to help players decorate, create Custom Designs or hand-write bulletin-board messages. An in-game megaphone item can also be used to call out to residents, using the built-in Nintendo Switch 2 microphone.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Version 3.0 update content
Ah, but that’s not all! Both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 owners can also look forward to a brand-new Version 3.0 content update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, adding a bevy of new content for players to chew on. First off in the list of new content additions, Kapp’n’s family is opening up a resort hotel on the pier. Players will be able to decorate guest rooms to bring in guests from off the island, and find furniture or clothing for them.
Additionally, Resetti will soon allow players to tidy up their island via the Reset Service. Players can also upgrade their home storage and store foliage like trees and shrubs there. Slumber Island will also allow Nintendo Switch Online subscribers to save up to three islands and play with friends online, designing the islands and building them collaboratively.
There are a bunch of collabs coming to Animal Crossing: New Horizons, as well. Unique clothing, furniture and other items themed after The Legend of Zelda, Splatoon, and LEGO, will soon pop up in the game. This includes Tears of the Kingdom’s the Ultra Hand and actual playable Nintendo consoles. On the latter point, these consoles will allow players to play retro minigames in the comfort of their own (digital) home.
Certain characters from The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon can also be invited to live with the player as villagers, via either franchise’s Amiibo figures. Animal Crossing: New Horizons Version 3.0 will launch on the same day as its release on the Nintendo Switch 2, on 15 January, 2026.
The game’s Nintendo Switch 2 version will cost US$64.99, but a paid upgrade pack from the original version is also available for US$4.99.
