I think the video is worth a watch if you’re an Animal Crossing fan, but here are the highlights:
The Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game and a free update to the base game launch January 15, 2026. Only on the Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch systems. Pre-orders are coming soon!
With enhanced resolution, mouse controls using the Joy-Con 2 controller, expanded online play*, and more features exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, players can get even more out of the island life in Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition!
Plus, a free update is coming to Animal Crossing: New Horizons for players on both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch to enjoy. The free update includes a new resort hotel, additional amiibo** functionality, collaboration items, updates to online play, and more.
We can’t wait for you to see everything new on the island January 15, 2026!
Nintendo Switch 2 players who already have Animal Crossing: New Horizons on Nintendo Switch can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition by purchasing the upgrade pack***.
*Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required for online features. Membership auto-renews after initial term at the then-current price unless canceled. Not available in all countries. Internet access required for online features. Terms apply. nintendo.com/purchase-terms/
**amiibo sold separately. Visit amiibo.com for details on amiibo functionality.
***Full version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons game required to use this content. Sold separately. For details, visit support.nintendo.com/switch2/upgradepack
What is the point of this console?
It plays games
A small list of inclusions:
-Zelda/Lego/Splatoon crossover characters, items
-A hotel for villagers to stay in while they come visit
-Slumber Island - ability to create new islands (up to 3) without getting rid of your main island. Accessed by going to sleep
-Crafting multiple items at onceAnother rerelease. Man Nintendo knows they can just keep the same game across 3 console and charge ridiculously for it and it will sell.
This is a massive free content update for a 5 year old game and a $5 update for Switch 2 owners who want higher resolutions and more online features. No reason to try and find something to complain about just because it’s Nintendo.
As far as I can tell this is going to be a free update. The only charge will be for people who want to “upgrade” to the Switch 2 version.
Ah I see, my bad. It’s easy to misinterpret when Nintendo does this so often.
