Nintendo has released a significant update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, introducing new gameplay features, expanded storage options, and online collaboration tools. The update is divided into a free 3.0 version for all players and a paid Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade with system-specific enhancements. Both versions aim to provide new ways for players to interact with their islands and communities.
New Hotel Feature Adds Creative Design Options
One of the main additions in Update 3.0 is the new hotel operated by Kapp’n’s family. Players can design themed rooms for guests, earning hotel tickets by completing room designs or assisting Tom Nook with specific DIY requests. These tickets can then be redeemed in the hotel’s souvenir shop for new items, creating a fresh loop of gameplay centered on decoration and item collection. The hotel feature encourages creativity while providing tangible in-game rewards.
Expanded Storage and Cleanup Options Improve Island Management
Update 3.0 also focuses on convenience and organization. Home storage has been expanded with two additional upgrades, allowing players to store up to 9,000 items, including trees, shrubs, and flowers. This makes larger landscaping projects and seasonal item management easier. Resetti’s new cleanup service provides another layer of island management. Players can request him to clean specific areas or the entire island, and flowers or custom designs can be transferred to storage. These tools make returning to the game after a break more manageable and help maintain a tidy island environment.
Slumber Islands Enable Experimental Creativity
Nintendo Switch Online members can now create up to three separate Slumber Islands. These islands function independently from the main island, allowing players to experiment with terraforming, construction, and decorating without affecting their primary gameplay. Slumber Islands also support online collaboration, enabling players to host friends or visit others’ islands to build together. This feature promotes creativity and social interaction while giving players a space to test new designs before committing to them on their main island.
Collaboration Content and amiibo Integration
The update introduces new collaboration items, including LEGO sets, retro Nintendo decorations, and content unlocked via compatible amiibo accessories. Players can scan amiibo from series such as Splatoon and The Legend of Zelda to unlock exclusive in-game items. These additions expand customization options and create connections between Animal Crossing: New Horizons and other Nintendo franchises, providing both creative and collectible incentives.
Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Brings Platform-Specific Enhancements
Alongside the free update, Nintendo released the Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which offers enhancements exclusive to the new system. The edition supports higher-resolution visuals and mouse controls for more precise decorating. A built-in megaphone allows players to call nearby animal residents using the system microphone, streamlining interaction on larger islands.
The Switch 2 Edition also expands online multiplayer, allowing up to 12 players to share an island in a single session. With CameraPlay and GameChat support, players can see and hear friends in real time during collaborative gameplay. Until March 31, 2026, GameChat can be used without a Nintendo Switch Online membership, after which a subscription is required.
Upgrade Options for Existing Players
Players who own the original version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons can purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack to access the new system-specific features. The full Switch 2 Edition is available at $64.99, while the upgrade pack costs $4.99. The standard Nintendo Switch version of the game remains available for $59.99. A full version of the game is required to use the upgrade pack.
Maintaining Player Engagement in Online Communities
With Slumber Islands, expanded online multiplayer, and integrated social features, the update emphasizes collaboration and experimentation. While not directly related to web3, these features reflect the ongoing trend of shared digital spaces and user-generated content. By enabling players to create, test, and share designs without affecting their main islands, Nintendo continues to foster long-term engagement and social interaction within its community.
Source: Nintendo
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is included in the free Update 3.0?
Update 3.0 adds Kapp’n’s family hotel, expanded storage up to 9,000 items, Resetti’s cleanup service, Slumber Islands for creative experimentation, and new collaboration items including LEGO sets and compatible amiibo content.
What are Slumber Islands?
Slumber Islands are separate islands that exist independently from a player’s main island. They allow players to experiment with building, terraforming, and decorating. Online features let players collaborate with friends in these spaces.
What enhancements are exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
The Switch 2 Edition includes higher-resolution visuals, mouse control support for decorating, a megaphone using the system microphone, 12-player online sessions, and CameraPlay and GameChat support for real-time communication.
How can I access the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition features if I already own the game?
Existing players can purchase the Upgrade Pack for $4.99, which unlocks Switch 2 Edition-specific features. A full version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is required.
Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online membership for these updates?
A membership is required for online features, including Slumber Islands and multiplayer island sessions. GameChat is free until March 31, 2026, after which a subscription is needed for video communication.
Are amiibo accessories required for all new items?
No, only certain collaboration content is unlocked through compatible amiibo accessories, which are sold separately.
