Animal Crossing New Horizons Gets Switch 2 Edition and 3.0 Update

Nintendo will release an Animal Crossing New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and a free Version 3.0 update for the original Switch on January 15, 2026, the company announced. The dual rollout includes a console-optimized edition with new hardware features and a broad, no-cost content update that will be available to players on both Switch platforms.

Nintendo described the Switch 2 Edition as offering "enhanced resolution, mouse controls using the JoyCon 2 controller, expanded online play, and more features exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2." The edition will use the new console's processing power to improve visuals and frame rate, add JoyCon 2 mouse controls for tasks such as home redecorating and custom designs, and enable camera and voice features that let players show their faces and use Game Chat. The Switch 2 Edition will support up to 12 simultaneous players, up from eight in the standard version. Nintendo said the Switch 2 Edition will be sold for $64.99 in both digital and physical formats, and owners of the existing Switch version will be able to purchase a separate upgrade pack for $4.99.

The free Version 3.0 update expands gameplay for everyone still on the original...