Nintendo has announced a major upgrade for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, bringing new life to the beloved simulation ahead of its January 15, 2026 debut on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Big Changes for Switch 2 Players
The new Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Switch 2 Edition delivers a significant visual boost, supporting 4K graphics on TV, plus mouse controls via the right Joy-Con 2 for easier decoration, custom designing, and bulletin board writing. A new in-game megaphone utilizes the Switch 2’s built-in microphone, letting you call out—and locate—your favorite villagers. Online play also gets a boost: up to 12 friends can now play together, and CameraPlay support means players can connect a webcam for real-time reactions while exploring the island together.
Upgrading to the Switch 2 Edition will cost $64.99 for new players, or $4.99 for current owners upgrading from the original Switch version.
Free Features for All Players
Nintendo is also rolling out a free update on January 15 for both Switch and Switch 2 users. This update introduces a new resort hotel operated by Kapp’n’s family, new themed characters and items, and “reset service” tweaks by the return of the mole Resetti. Storage is expanding to a whopping 9,000 items—including trees and shrubs. Fans can now host and decorate dream islands with friends, collect Nintendo-themed and LEGO collaboration items, and, for Nintendo Switch Online members, even save and design up to three unique islands.
A Fresh Start for Island Life
Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ latest update breathes new energy into the popular series, following years without major additions. Whether you’re excited to decorate new spaces or connect with even more friends online, January’s release looks set to make island life more creative—and lively—than ever.