“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” offers players a tranquil escape into a vibrant world of customization and community building. As players step into their new roles on a deserted island, the initial days are crucial for establishing a foundation for future endeavors. The game’s opening hours focus on interactions with iconic characters like Tom Nook and the Nooklings, and players will find themselves balancing tasks to unlock various features and facilities on the island.
On the very first day, players are introduced to the fundamentals of island life. After creating their characters and selecting an island from a set of randomly generated landscapes, they are tasked with setting up their tents alongside two starting villagers. This part of the game is not just about personalizing the space but also about forging relationships with characters who will become part of the island’s fabric.
Following the initial setup, players must gather materials, like tree branches, to throw a welcome party. As they progress, essential tools are crafted, such as the Flimsy Fishing Rod and Flimsy Net. These tools are vital for catching fish and bugs, which players must show to Tom Nook to complete various milestones, including unlocking the Critterpedia app and recipes for more advanced tools. Notably, gathering different species will prompt players to unlock the Nook Miles Program, which serves as an alternative currency in the game.
By the end of the first day, players are encouraged to begin forming a community through interactions with their villagers and collecting resources. They are also introduced to the concept of Nook Miles, which can be earned through various in-game activities. These miles are essential for paying off debts from their getaway package and for acquiring new items that will enhance their island experience.
Progressing Island Life
As players move into the second day, they are greeted with new opportunities to expand their island. Tom Nook announces the opening of the airport, allowing for multiplayer functionality and travel to friends’ islands. This day also marks the arrival of Blathers, the museum curator, who will accept various specimens for the museum. Players are tasked with gathering more creatures to fully furnish the museum in the future, which in turn enhances the communal aspect of their island.
New tools become available, including the Flimsy Shovel and Vaulting Pole, which allow players to dig and cross rivers. These tools are crucial for exploring more of the island and collecting materials. The excitement builds as players can now dive into the ocean, catching sea creatures that will enrich their museum collections and provide additional income.
By the end of the second day, players have the opportunity to assist Timmy and Tommy in building Nook’s Cranny, the first shop on the island. This task requires players to gather significant amounts of wood and iron, highlighting the importance of resource management as they prepare for future gameplay elements. A Nook Miles Ticket may also be used to travel to resource-rich islands, further emphasizing the interconnectedness of the game world.
As players embark on the third day, they will visit Nook’s Cranny and see the shop in action. The day’s objectives include preparing for the arrival of three new villagers who will soon join the island. This requires players to build homes for these newcomers, adding depth to their community-building efforts. Furthermore, the introduction of the bridge construction project adds another layer of planning as players work to connect different parts of their island.
The tasks of collecting materials for both the bridge and the new homes allow players to engage in the game’s core mechanics, emphasizing exploration, crafting, and resource management. With the addition of new villagers, players are not just building structures but also fostering relationships that will enrich their gameplay experience. This gradual development mimics the natural progression of a community, providing a sense of accomplishment as players see their island transform.
“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” continues to evolve its gameplay through these early days, setting the stage for more complex interactions and customization options. As the island develops, players will find that their choices and crafting efforts lead to a vibrant and personalized community. In this serene yet engaging world, each day offers the opportunity to shape their island into a unique paradise, ultimately reflecting the player’s personal style and preferences.
