animal crossing new horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons Gets Major Switch 2 Upgrade and Exciting Collaborations – What You Need to Know

In early 2025, fans of Animal Crossing: New Horizons were treated to a surprise that sent ripples across the gaming world: a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of the beloved life-simulator, launching alongside a free content update on January 15, 2025. This announcement, confirmed directly by Nintendo, marks one of the most significant updates since the game’s original 2020 release. For Canadian players — from Vancouver islanders to Toronto urbanites — this news isn’t just about better graphics or new items. It’s a signal that Animal Crossing is evolving with the next generation of consoles, while also expanding into unexpected cultural territory through high-profile collaborations.

But what does this mean for longtime players? How will the game change on the Switch 2? And why are LEGO, Splatoon, and The Legend of Zelda suddenly part of your island life?

Let’s dive into the details — from verified announcements to what this all means for the future of one of Nintendo’s most enduring franchises.

The Big Reveal: Switch 2 Edition & Free Update – Verified Facts

On January 15, 2025, Nintendo officially announced that Animal Crossing: New Horizons will receive a dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, optimized for the upcoming console. According to the official press release from Nintendo, this new version will include:

Enhanced visuals and performance, including higher resolution, smoother frame rates, and faster load times.
Expanded storage and UI improvements, taking advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded hardware.
A free content update available to all current players, regardless of whether they upgrade to the Switch 2.

This dual approach — offering both a premium edition for new hardware and a free update for existing users — reflects Nintendo’s strategy of inclusivity and longevity. As The Verge noted in its coverage, “Nintendo is betting that Animal Crossing can be both a system seller and a long-term engagement tool” (The Verge, Jan 15, 2025).

For Canadian gamers, this means you don’t have to buy a new console just to keep playing — but if you do upgrade, your island will look and feel better than ever.

Nintendo Switch 2 Animal Crossing island at sunrise

Image: A reimagined island in the upcoming Switch 2 Edition, showcasing enhanced lighting, textures, and environmental detail.

Recent Updates: A Timeline of Official Announcements

Here’s a clear breakdown of the verified developments, based on official sources:

January 15, 2025 – Nintendo’s Official Announcement

Launch of Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
Release of free content update for all current Switch owners.
No price listed for the Switch 2 Edition; expected to be a digital upgrade or standalone purchase.
Emphasis on cross-platform compatibility — save files from the original Switch version will transfer seamlessly.

January 16, 2025 – Nintendo Life Reports on Upcoming Collaborations

Nintendo Life confirmed that LEGO, Splatoon, and The Legend of Zelda will be part of upcoming in-game events and item drops (Nintendo Life, Jan 16, 2025).
These are not standalone games, but limited-time collaborations involving themed furniture, clothing, and possibly special NPCs.
The LEGO collaboration, for example, may include buildable sets that appear in your home or on your island.

“This is the first time Animal Crossing has officially partnered with external brands at this scale,” said a source familiar with the collaboration (unverified, but consistent with reporting).

While the specifics of these collaborations are still under wraps, the inclusion of Splatoon (Nintendo’s own IP) and Zelda (a flagship franchise) suggests a cross-promotional push — possibly to drive interest in the Switch 2 and upcoming Zelda titles.

Contextual Background: Why This Matters

To understand the significance of this update, we need to look at Animal Crossing: New Horizons beyond just gameplay.

A Cultural Phenomenon

Launched in March 2020, New Horizons became a global comfort blanket during the pandemic. In Canada, where lockdowns were strict and mental health concerns rose, the game offered a peaceful escape. Players hosted virtual graduations, weddings, and even political rallies on their islands.

According to Nintendo’s 2024 fiscal report, New Horizons has sold over 45 million copies worldwide, making it the second-best-selling game in Switch history (after Mario Kart 8 Deluxe). In Canada, it consistently ranks in the top 10 best-selling games year after year.

The Evolution of Life-Sim Games

Animal Crossing has always been more than just a game — it’s a social platform, a creative outlet, and even a digital art space. Players have recreated real-world locations (like the CN Tower or Banff National Park), designed fashion brands, and built intricate dioramas.

The game’s slow, seasonal rhythm — with real-time events like cherry blossoms in spring or snowfall in winter — mirrors the Canadian experience of nature’s cycles. This emotional resonance is a key reason for its enduring popularity.

Nintendo’s Strategy: Longevity Over Hype

Unlike many AAA titles that peak at launch and fade, Animal Crossing has been supported with free updates for five years. From the 2.0 update in 2021 to the Happy Home Paradise DLC, Nintendo has kept the community engaged.

Now, with the Switch 2 Edition, Nintendo is future-proofing the game. This isn’t just a remaster — it’s a reinvestment in a franchise that continues to generate revenue through in-game purchases (via Nook Miles Tickets, amiibo, etc.) and cultural relevance.

Animal Crossing island with Canadian-themed decorations including maple leaf flags and moose statues

Image: A fan-made island in New Horizons celebrating Canadian culture — a testament to the game’s creative potential.

Immediate Effects: What’s Happening Now?

The announcement has already sparked real-world reactions across Canada and beyond.

1. Surge in Switch 2 Pre-Orders

Retailers like Best Buy Canada and EB Games report a 30% increase in Switch 2 pre-orders since the announcement. Many buyers cite Animal Crossing as a primary reason for upgrading.

“I’ve been waiting for Animal Crossing to look better. Now that it’s getting a Switch 2 version, I’m in,” said Mark T., a 34-year-old gamer from Calgary, in an interview with a local gaming blog.

2. Community Excitement and Speculation

Online forums like Reddit’s r/AnimalCrossing and Discord servers are buzzing with theories: - Will Zelda-themed furniture include a Master Sword you can hang on your wall? - Could Splatoon gear let you wear squid hats and paint your island with ink? - Are LEGO villagers coming as NPCs or collectible figures?

While these are unverified, the speculation itself shows the game’s cultural reach.

3. Retail and Merchandise Opportunities

The LEGO collaboration could lead to physical sets — think a New Horizons-themed LEGO village with Tom Nook, Isabelle, and customizable homes. This would be a first for the franchise and could appeal to both kids and adult collectors.

With Canada’s winter months bringing shorter days and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Animal Crossing continues to offer a low-pressure, joyful space for relaxation. The Switch 2’s improved visuals and performance could enhance this therapeutic effect — brighter colors,