Overall Score: 82/100
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Story | 7/10 |
| Gameplay | 8/10 |
| Visuals | 8/10 |
| Audio | 10/10 |
| Value for Money | 8/10 |
Price: $65
Reviewed On: Switch 2
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains one of Nintendo’s most beloved social simulation experiences. Its move to the Switch 2 doesn’t dramatically reinvent the formula, nor does it overhaul the core systems. Instead, it delivers a refined version of what players already know.
Returning island representatives should expect a largely identical experience, while first-time players will discover a deeply relaxing, endlessly customizable life simulator. The Switch 2 edition is polished — but whether it’s necessary is another question entirely.
What Is Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
Originally launched in March 2020 for the Nintendo Switch, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a life simulation game centered around building and personalizing a deserted island community.
Players assume the role of an Island Representative working under Tom Nook’s latest real estate venture. Starting with little more than a tent and a loan, you gradually transform an undeveloped island into a thriving paradise filled with villagers, shops, museums, and carefully placed furniture.
The Switch 2 version introduces technical improvements and integrates the major 3.0 update, adding new quality-of-life features and additional content.
Key Features
- Full island, home, and character customization
- Real-time seasonal events and progression
- Relaxed social simulation gameplay
- Switch 2 mouse functionality
- Microphone integration via in-game megaphone
- Update 3.0 improvements
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Mouse controls make decorating easier
- Update 3.0 significantly improves crafting
- Strong long-term gameplay loop
- Outstanding music and sound design
Cons
- Visual upgrades are subtle
- No major next-gen innovations
- Switch 2 port feels unnecessary
Story – 7/10
Like previous entries in the series, New Horizons doesn’t present a traditional narrative. Instead, the story is entirely player-driven.
You arrive on an uninhabited island, build relationships with animal villagers, repay loans, and slowly develop the community however you see fit. The stakes are intentionally low. There’s no looming threat or dramatic arc — just daily routines and personal milestones.
While charming, the isolated setting makes this entry feel slightly less dynamic than past games. Still, the freedom to shape your own island journey remains satisfying.
Gameplay – 8/10
The core gameplay loop is as addictive as ever. You collect materials, craft furniture, catch bugs and fish, donate items to the museum, and expand your home.
The Switch 2 version introduces mouse controls for decorating and pattern design. While not revolutionary, they make fine adjustments much easier. Rearranging furniture or customizing details feels more precise and less clunky.
The bigger improvement, however, comes from Update 3.0 rather than the hardware itself.
Crafting Improvements
- Bulk crafting now allows multiple items to be built at once.
- Materials can be pulled directly from home storage.
- Tile-by-tile placement offers greater layout control.
These changes drastically reduce menu repetition and streamline the creative process.
Despite this, the overall structure remains the same. If you played extensively in 2020, this experience will feel extremely familiar.
Visuals – 8/10
Animal Crossing has always embraced a clean, stylized look. On Switch 2, the presentation is sharper and smoother, with improved framerate stability and slightly enhanced model fidelity.
However, the difference is modest. The original game was already visually polished, and its art direction was never technically demanding.
It looks better — just not dramatically better.
Audio – 10/10
Where the game truly shines is in its sound design.
The hourly soundtrack remains iconic, shifting moods throughout the day with subtle changes in instrumentation. Environmental effects — footsteps on sand, wind through trees, ocean waves — create a soothing atmosphere.
Villager dialogue, while presented in its signature “babble,” is expressive and full of personality. And of course, K.K. Slider’s performances remain a highlight.
Even outside gameplay, the music stands strong. It’s one of Nintendo’s best audio packages to date.
Value for Money – 8/10
At $64.99, New Horizons sits comfortably at the standard AAA price.
If you’re upgrading from the original version, the lower upgrade cost makes the decision easier. If you’re buying it for the first time, you’re getting hundreds — potentially thousands — of hours of content.
The only hesitation comes from the fact that this is largely the same game from 2020. The improvements are meaningful but not transformative.
Still, few simulation games offer this level of longevity.
Update 3.0 Highlights
While the Switch 2 hardware brings minor enhancements, Update 3.0 does most of the heavy lifting.
Dream Islands
Using Luna’s bed, players can upload a snapshot of their island for others to explore in a dream state. These islands are static showcases, allowing players to tour creative builds without altering anything.
It’s an excellent way to gain inspiration or show off your own work.
Megaphone Feature
The new megaphone item utilizes the Switch 2’s microphone. Players can call villagers using their real-world voice. While niche, it’s a fun novelty feature.
Structural Improvements
- Easier building adjustments
- More precise decoration tools
- Smoother inventory handling
Together, these upgrades make the experience feel more fluid.
Was the Switch 2 Port Necessary?
This is where opinions may vary.
New Horizons was already technically sound. The Switch 2 port improves resolution and framerate but does not reinvent the experience.
The added features are pleasant, but they don’t dramatically change gameplay. It feels less like a generational leap and more like a refined edition.
For newcomers, this is the best version available. For returning players, it may not justify repurchasing at full price unless the upgrade path is affordable.
Final Verdict – 82/100
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains a fantastic life simulation game. Its relaxing structure, customization depth, and charming audio design are as strong as ever.
However, the Switch 2 version plays it safe. It enhances rather than reimagines.
If this is your first visit to the island, you’re in for a wonderful time. If you’ve already built your dream home back in 2020, don’t expect a radically different experience.
It’s still a great getaway — just not a transformative one.
Product Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Animal Crossing: New Horizons |
| Original Release | March 20, 2020 (Switch) |
| Switch 2 Release | January 15, 2026 |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Genre | Simulation |
| Players | 1–8 |
| ESRB | E |