Nintendo Updates Animal Crossing: New Horizons After 3 Years

Nintendo has just delivered a pleasant surprise for fans of Animal Crossing: New Horizons with its first major update in nearly three years. Released on May 27, the update focuses on improving multiplayer compatibility between the original Nintendo Switch and the newly launched Nintendo Switch 2. While the patch notes are brief, indicating only that the update enhances multiplayer functionality, it signifies a significant step forward for the game, which hadn’t seen any backend improvements since November 2022.

Although the exact nature of the changes remains unclear, it’s likely a minor adjustment aimed at ensuring seamless interactions between players on both console versions. For instance, this update ensures that users of the Switch 2 can seamlessly visit friends’ islands and enjoy multiplayer features without encountering technical hiccups.

Despite the update's modest scope, it holds importance for players eager to transition to the new hardware. Unlike titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Kirby and the Forgotten Land, which faced compatibility challenges on the Switch 2, Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains fully functional across both platforms. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers planning to upgrade their consoles in the near future.

Set against the backdrop of a deserted island, Animal Crossing: New Horizons invites players to craft their own slice of paradise through exploration, creation, and customization. Praised for its charm and creativity, the game earned a spot on our Top 25 Best Nintendo Switch Games in 2025 list, where it received a glowing 9/10 rating. Critics noted its polished design and endless surprises, making it a timeless favorite among Nintendo fans.