Animal Crossing is reviving your island: great 3.0 update one Switch 2 edition announced!

Nintendo surprises fans with a huge update to Animal Crossing: New Horizons én a special version for Nintendo Switch 2.

From January 15, 2026, players can reclaim their island life with the free version 3.0 update, packed with new features, improvements and even a brand new resort hotel. In addition, a Switch 2 edition of the game appears with exclusive graphics and social improvements.

What's new in update 3.0?

• The update adds numerous new features including:
• Resort hotel at the pier: design guest rooms, earn Hotel Tickets and buy exclusive items in the souvenir shop.
• Larger storage space: up to 9,000 items including trees and bushes!
• Resetti’s cleaning service: remove or move objects effortlessly.
• Slumber Island: Save to three islands and play together with friends online.
• Crossover items: new furniture and clothing from The Legend of Zelda, Splatoon and LEGO collections.

Extra’s for Switch 2 players

• The new Switch 2 edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons harnesses the power of the new console:
• 4K resolution in TV mode
• Extended online multiplayer (up to 12 players)
• Microphone and camera support for interactive conversations with residents
• Smoother gameplay and shorter loading times

The free update will appear for all players on January 15, 2026.

The Switch 2 edition is sold separately, but existing players can upgrade for a small fee to unlock the new features.