After a lengthy wait of over four years, Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 and the Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition have finally made their debut. This significant update introduces a range of fresh content, enhancing the beloved simulation game that has captured the hearts of millions since its original release. While the core features have been previously explored in detail, it’s essential to focus on the new additions brought forth in this iteration, particularly for seasoned players eager to explore what has changed since the last major update.
The Switch 2 Edition launches with Version 3.0, which incorporates numerous upgrades and new features. Although this update may not be as extensive as the previous 2.0 release, which included a full expansion, it still offers substantial enhancements. The 3.0 update is designed to integrate new mechanics into the main game, bringing several popular features from the Happy Home Paradise expansion directly into the gameplay.
One notable addition is the new collaboration items and Amiibo support, particularly for The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon. Players can scan these Amiibo to unlock specific items and new animal villagers from these franchises, addressing a previous lack of crossover content. In addition to Nintendo-themed items, the update introduces LEGO crossover items, which can be acquired through Nook Shopping without the need for special steps.
The crafting system has also undergone significant improvements. Players can now pull resources directly from storage, eliminating the need to carry materials around. This quality-of-life upgrade allows for bulk purchases of customization kits, streamlining the crafting process for players. Furthermore, a new positioning feature allows players to align their characters better when using tools, making tasks like digging or landscaping considerably easier.
Another major highlight of Version 3.0 is the introduction of a Hotel. Located in place of the original dock, this new feature incorporates mechanics from the Happy Home Paradise expansion into the main game without requiring any additional purchases. Players can decorate two themed rooms per day, with nine rooms available for customization in total. Completing these rooms rewards players with Hotel Tickets, a new currency that can be spent at the Hotel Shop, further incentivizing daily engagement with this feature.
The Hotel also allows for unique interactions, as daily guests visiting the island will engage with players, making the island feel more alive compared to previous iterations. This is a welcome change from the random campsite villagers, adding depth to the player experience.
In addition to the Hotel, the update introduces Dream Islands, allowing players to save up to three completely customizable islands. Friends can join online, giving them access to all items and resources accumulated throughout the game, creating a collaborative environment for design enthusiasts. However, this mode unfortunately does not support local co-op play, which remains a drawback.
While the gameplay has been significantly enhanced, the Switch 2 Edition boasts technical improvements when compared to the original release. Players can expect enhanced visuals, with the game now rendered in 4K resolution and improved lighting. However, some rendering issues from the original version persist, particularly with background objects appearing slightly blurry.
Although the frame rate remains locked at 30 FPS, the overall performance has improved significantly on the Switch 2. Players can now experience a more stable frame rate with fewer dropouts, especially when fully developing islands. The introduction of the Megaphone, a new object utilizing the Switch 2’s built-in microphone, allows players to locate villagers by calling their names, adding a new layer of interaction.
Mouse controls have also been added, enabling faster room customization and message drawing, which many players will find beneficial. Moreover, the Switch 2 Edition allows for up to 12 players to join online play, a significant increase over the previous limit, thus enhancing the multiplayer experience.
In summary, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition along with its accompanying 3.0 update represents a definitive version of the game, filled with quality-of-life improvements and new content. While the upgrade comes at a modest price of $5, it begs the question of whether the additional features justify the cost for existing players. Nonetheless, whether newcomers or returning fans, the current iteration provides an optimal opportunity to immerse oneself in the cherished world of Animal Crossing.
VERDICT: Essential
Reviewed on Nintendo Switch 2
