Animal Crossing: New Horizons receives first major update in four years for Switch and Switch 2

Nintendo has announced major free update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, launching January 15 on Switch 1 and 2

Nintendo has announced the first major update to Animal Crossing: New Horizons in four years, alongside a new Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of the game.

The update will arrive on January 15 2026 for both the original Switch and Switch 2, bringing new gameplay features, improved visuals, and expanded online functions.

The Switch 2 Edition introduces upgraded 4K visuals in docked mode, while maintaining the original 30 frames per second performance.

Players will also have access to new Joy-Con mouse-style controls for more precise home decoration and a new megaphone item that uses the console’s built-in microphone to call out to villagers by name.

Up to 12 players can now visit an island at once, and webcam support has been added so players can display their faces over in-game avatars during online sessions.

The accompanying free update will also be available to both console versions, adding new in-game activities and items. A new resort hotel run by Kapp’n’s family will allow players to design themed rooms for guests in exchange for tickets redeemable for exclusive furniture and clothing.

Storage capacity has been increased from 5,000 to 9,000 items, and players can now store flora such as trees and shrubs. A new service from Resetti lets players instantly clear areas of their islands for easier rebuilding.

Among the new collectibles are classic Nintendo consoles that can play select retro games via Nintendo Switch Online, as well as LEGO, The Legend of Zelda, and Splatoon-themed furniture sets accessible through compatible Amiibo.

A new feature called Slumber Island also allows players to build a completely customisable secondary island, inviting friends to collaborate on construction and landscaping projects. Each player can create and save up to three Slumber Islands, expanding multiplayer creativity across both console generations.