Nintendo's lockdown-era phenomenon, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, has made a surprise return. The game, which became the second best-selling title on the original Switch, has been re-released in a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, accompanied by a substantial free Update 3.0 for all players. This move, announced on 15th January 2026, has left many fans and critics pondering Nintendo's long-term strategy for the mega-hit franchise.
A Puzzling Strategy from Nintendo
The treatment of Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been a source of bewilderment. After its colossal success in March 2020, Nintendo provided robust support before abruptly halting all updates in 2021 following Update 2.0 and the Happy Home Paradise expansion. The sudden silence led to speculation about a fast-tracked sequel, but the unexpected arrival of this Switch 2 Edition suggests a brand-new game is still some way off.
The Switch 2 upgrade itself is a modest affair. Graphically, the game now runs at 4K resolution in TV mode, and performance hitches in densely decorated areas have been smoothed out. Load times are improved, though not eliminated. The package supports up to 12 players online simultaneously (provided they all own the Switch 2 version) and integrates the Switch 2 camera to show player faces above their avatars.
Update 3.0: New Content & Awkward Controls
Crucially, the meat of the new content is found in the free Update 3.0, available for both Switch 1 and Switch 2 owners. The centrepiece is a hotel run by Kapp'n's family, offering a familiar but enjoyable decorating challenge. Players earn tokens to buy unique items, including special The Legend of Zelda memorabilia and a range of Lego items available from the start.
The update finally addresses long-standing fan requests with quality-of-life improvements. Players can now craft multiple identical items at once and draw resources directly from home storage. However, the baffling omission of multiple islands per console remains.
A significant, if clumsily implemented, new feature is mouse control for room design. Using a Joy-Con as a pointer makes intricate decorating and drawing far easier. Unfortunately, switching between mouse and standard controls is cumbersome, and the Pro Controller isn't seamlessly integrated into the process.
Verdict: A Welcome, But Stopgap, Return
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains a wonderfully relaxed and content-rich experience. For anyone who never visited their island, the Switch 2 Edition is an easy recommendation. For returning fans, the low upgrade cost and free update provide a charming excuse to check back in on old villagers.
Yet, this package feels like a holding pattern. The new features are minor, and the awkward mouse controls highlight a lack of polish. While the hotel and new items are fun, they don't revolutionise the experience. The review score of 9/10 reflects the enduring quality of the base game more than the impact of this new edition.
The lingering question is about the future. New Horizons set a phenomenally high bar. These updates are a pleasant diversion, but they only deepen the anticipation for a true sequel. For now, the island life continues, but fans will be hoping Nintendo's next move is a bigger leap forward.
