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Nintendo released an updated version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons for the Switch 2, alongside a new update. For anyone looking to upgrade to the new version, there are a few things to pay attention to.
How to Update to the Switch 2 Version
To update Animal Crossing: New Horizons to the Switch 2 version, you’ll need to download Update 3.0 for the game. This should automatically happen when you attempt to load up the game, but if not, highlight the game in your Switch 2 menu. Press the + button. Scroll down to Software Update, and select Via the Internet. The download will begin immediately.
To access the Switch 2 features, you’ll need to make sure you’re playing on the console and that version. This means you’ll need to either purchase the Switch 2 version or the Upgrade Pack if you’re upgrading from the original Switch version. The upgrade is the cheaper option, and when I searched it on the eShop, the purchase option was automatically replaced with the upgrade option instead.
How to Transfer Your Animal Crossing: New Horizons Island to the Switch 2
Your island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is tied to your Switch console. However, it is possible to transfer it to the Switch 2, and it’s a two-step process.
First, make sure that you have transferred all your data from the original Switch. You should have completed this process when setting up the Switch 2. If this is your first time setting up the Switch 2, you’ll be prompted to do this as part of the setup process, so simply follow the instructions provided.
Once you’ve transferred your data to the Switch 2, load up the game. If the transfer was successful, the game will detect your old data and if you wish to use it. Select Existing Data and then select your resident data when prompted. The game should then load as normal and take you to your island.
What New Features Are in Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Version?
Upgrading to the Switch 2 version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons does provide a few benefits, mainly around the console’s unique features. The first of these is a higher screen resolution, allowing you to go up to 4K instead of the Switch’s maximum of 1080p.
The new version also makes extensive use of the mouse controls baked into the new Joy-Cons. These can be used for custom designs, furniture arrangement and other personalization options.
Finally, the Switch 2 Version adds new online features, including the use of the in-built GameChat feature. This can be used in multiplayer modes for communicating with up to 11 other players, but a new Megaphone item allows you to find villagers by saying their name into the in-built microphone.
However, anyone expecting any new gameplay content unique to the Switch 2 will be disappointed. While Update 3.0 does add new content such as the hotel, this is also available to Switch players.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is out now for the Switch and Switch 2.
