Animal Crossing: New Horizons Gets Major Update for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

Why This Matters for Animal Crossing Fans

After years of relative silence following its last major expansion, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is receiving a substantial content refresh that has reignited excitement amongst millions of players worldwide. Version 3.0 of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is releasing on January 15, 2026 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, bringing both free content for all players and enhanced features for those with Nintendo’s latest console.

The timing is particularly significant as 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the Animal Crossing series, making this update a celebration of the beloved franchise’s enduring appeal.

What’s Included in the Free Update

The Version 3.0 Update featuring the brand new Resort Hotel run by Kapp’n, Slumber Islands, new collaboration items, new amiibo villagers, and more is scheduled for release on Thursday, January 15th, 2026. All players who own the base game will have access to these additions at no cost.

The free update will be adding new items, more villagers inspired by The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon, in addition to the Resort Hotel, a new area. The Resort Hotel will function as a new island that villagers will randomly appear on. Players can also scan their amiibo and amiibo cards to invite specific villagers should they wish. The villagers can then be invited to stay at the hotel, with players then having the task of designing the perfect rooms for their guests.

Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Enhancements

Alongside the free update, Nintendo is releasing a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of the game with exclusive features. In Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, players can build their island paradise, enjoy a sunset on the beach, run around catching insects and more, all with enhanced resolution.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition also supports Joy-Con 2 mouse controls for interior decoration, creating Custom Designs and writing bulletin-board messages. Perhaps most uniquely, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition adds the Megaphone, a new item you can use to call your island residents using the console’s built-in microphone.

This adds support for 4K resolutions, mouse controls when redecorating your home, and online multiplayer expanding up to 12 players on a single island.

Looking Ahead

This substantial update demonstrates Nintendo’s continued commitment to Animal Crossing: New Horizons rather than rushing to develop a sequel. For longtime players who haven’t visited their islands recently, the combination of fresh content and technical improvements offers compelling reasons to return. The update represents not just a technical upgrade, but a meaningful expansion to the game’s core island life experience that has captivated players since the original 2020 release.