Nintendo announced Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will release on January 15, 2026 ($64.99). Players who already own New Horizons on the Switch can purchase the Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack ($4.99).
The Switch 2 version adds improved resolution, including 4K in docked TV mode. Plus, players can use the new mouse controls with the Joy-Con 2 to make decorating and designing easier, and find residents by using the Switch 2 built-in microphone (along with the game’s megaphone item).
Players can also connect and play together with up to 12 players in the Switch 2 Edition, and utilize the CameraPlay feature (Switch 2 Camera sold separately).
Comparison between Switch 1 and Switch 2 versions
But wait — there’s more! New Horizons is getting a new update for both versions, and it’s completely free!
The update adds a new resort hotel run by Kapp’n, and includes new items and characters. Bring in guests by decorating guest rooms, and dress up mannequins for guests to wear as they arrive.
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can also enjoy Slumber Island, with up to three islands to customize and play with friends. Members can also play some classic Nintendo titles in-game by interacting with in-game console items.
The update will also add a Reset Service if you’d like to start over and clean up the island. The home storage is also getting a bigger upgrade, with storage increasing to hold up to 9,000 items.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons released in March 2020, and became incredibly popular thanks in part to the then-new COVID-19 pandemic. Oh, and it’s also a fun game and an instant classic life sim.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Switch 2 Edition, Upgrade Pack, and free content will release on January 15. It’s rated E for Everyone.
