Nintendo has confirmed Animal Crossing: New Horizons is set to get a huge surprise update and a Switch 2 upgrade.
Back in 2021, Nintendo announced that the ‘Happy Home Paradise’ DLC and the accompanying free update would be the final major updates released for Animal Crossing: New Horizons. However four years later, the company has confirmed a surprise new update is on the way.
Set to launch early next year, the new Animal Crossing: New Horizons free update will introduce a hotel run by Kapp’n’s family to the game. “To bring in guests from off the island, you’ll help out by decorating guest rooms and more,” said Nintendo in a statement. “Plus, find new furniture and clothing at the souvenir shop and dress up mannequins with outfits that guests can wear.”
A number of quality of life improvements will also be added, including increased storage, the ability to craft multiple items at the same time and a more convenient way to reset your island if you want a fresh start.
Ahoy, islanders! #AnimalCrossingNewHorizons – #NintendoSwitch2 Edition and a free content update for all players both sail ashore Jan. 15, 2026.
Watch the trailer for all the details: https://t.co/FD3aV005ZO pic.twitter.com/6koh1HnJ0c
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) October 30, 2025
Animal Crossing: New Horizons will also introduce a number of new collaborations to the game. If Nintendo Switch Online members purchase old school consoles from Nook’s Cranny, they’ll be able to play “classic” games. Lego items are also set to arrive in New Horizons while using The Legend Of Zelda and Splatoon amiibo’s will allow you to invite “certain characters” to your island.
Meanwhile, a Nintendo Switch 2 paid upgrade for Animal Crossing: New Horizons will also be made available, bringing mouse controls, improved resolution, 12-player online sessions and CameraPlay to the game. You’ll also be able to locate residents by using the built-in Switch 2 microphone. Both updates will go live January 5, 2026.
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In other news, Amazon’s ambitious multiplayer The Lord Of The Rings game has reportedly been cancelled following a wave of job cuts throughout the company.
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