Animal Crossing: New Horizons reveals Nintendo Switch 2 edition and free update coming super soon

Animal Crossing: New Horizons fans have reason to celebrate. Nintendo has announced a brand-new Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and a major free update, both arriving on January 15, 2026. The release promises enhanced gameplay, new features, and exciting collaborations for dedicated islanders.

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What’s new in the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?

The new Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons enhances the experience with 4K resolution when docked, improved controls using Joy-Con 2, and new creative tools. Players can decorate, design Custom Designs, write bulletin board notes by hand, and even call residents using a megaphone and built-in microphone. The update also allows 12-player online sessions and introduces CameraPlay with friends for more interactive island fun, as per a report by Nintendo Everything.


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What does the free update include?

The free update launches alongside the new edition and adds plenty of fresh content. Kapp’n’s family is opening a resort hotel on the pier, where players can decorate guest rooms, explore a souvenir shop, and dress mannequins. It also brings a Reset Service by Resetti and expanded home storage, up to 9,000 items, including trees and shrubs, as per a report by Nintendo Everything.

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How does Slumber Island and collaboration content work?

Nintendo Switch Online members will gain access to Slumber Island, where they can design, save, and collaborate on up to three islands. The update also adds collectible Nintendo and LEGO items, with amiibo compatibility from The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series unlocking themed content, as per a report by Nintendo Everything.

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FAQs

When will the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and free update release?

Both launch on January 15, 2026.



What new features are included in the update?

Players can enjoy a resort hotel, expanded storage, Slumber Island, and special Nintendo and LEGO collaborations.