Animal Crossing New Horizons to get new Nintendo Switch 2 edition: Launch date, features and more

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The Animal Crossing: New Horizons game is getting a new version for the Nintendo Switch 2 console. The upcoming edition is set to feature new upgrades and expanded multiplayer capabilities.

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will include higher resolution visuals, mouse controls, an in-game megaphone using the system's built-in microphone, and online play for up to 12 players. A free update is also coming to the original Animal Crossing: New Horizons game for Nintendo Switch on January 15, 2026. This update features a new resort hotel run by Kapp'n's family, new themed items and characters, and additional content, including Slumber Island for Nintendo Switch Online members.

The updated content can be played in both versions of the game starting next year.

Animal Crossing New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: Price and availability

Players using the Nintendo Switch 2 can buy either the digital or physical version of the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of the game when it launches on January 15, 2026, for $64.99. Those who already own the game on Nintendo Switch can get a paid upgrade pack for $4.99 (MSRP). Pre-orders for the upgrade pack are already open on the My Nintendo Store and Nintendo eShop.

Animal Crossing New Horizons: Features coming to old and new versions

Here’s a detailed list of the new features coming to the old and new Nintendo Switch 2 console edition of Animal Crossing New Horizons:

Section	Details
Game Overview	Animal Crossing: New Horizons invites players to create and customise their own island paradise by gardening, fishing, decorating, hunting for bugs and fossils, and interacting with animal residents. The game’s day-night cycle and seasons reflect real-world time, offering new experiences each day.
Edition	Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Platform	Nintendo Switch 2
Launch Date	January 15
Key Enhancements (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition)	- Improved resolution (4K in TV mode). Mouse controls via right Joy-Con 2 for decorating, creating Custom Designs, and writing bulletin board messages. Use the in-game megaphone and built-in microphone to locate residents. Online sessions with up to 12 players, CameraPlay feature with a compatible USB camera (sold separately) to see friends’ reactions in-game
New Features (Both Versions)	- Resort Hotel’s Grand Opening: A new resort run by Kapp’n’s family on the pier. Players help decorate guest rooms, discover new furniture and clothing, and dress mannequins. - Making Island Life More Convenient: Reboot service by Resetti, expanded home storage (up to 9,000 items), and the ability to store trees, shrubs, and flowers. - Slumber Island: Online feature for Nintendo Switch Online members to design and save up to three islands, collaborate with friends, and invite residents. - Collaborations: Collect Nintendo-themed items like Ultra Hand and classic consoles, access select retro Nintendo games via in-game consoles, LEGO® items debut, and amiibo support for The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon series characters and items.
Online Features	Available via Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Release Info	Both the free update and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition release on January 15.
Notes	4K available in TV mode only. CameraPlay requires a compatible USB camera (sold separately). Amiibo functionality supports select The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon figures.