Animal Crossing: New Horizons has received a significant refresh with its latest 3.0 update, offering a wealth of new content. While Nintendo Switch 2 owners benefit from graphical enhancements in the Switch 2 Edition, many of the most exciting additions are available to all players for free.
Even if a player has not upgraded to the Nintendo Switch 2, there is still plenty of new content to enjoy in the free 3.0 update. This guide details everything included in both the free Ver.3.0 update and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Exclusive Paid Features
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a more powerful console, and the Switch 2 Edition upgrade for ACNH primarily offers visual improvements. However, it also includes several other features:
- Improved graphics (increased resolution, still 30fps).
- Joy-Con 2 mouse controls for decorating, designing, and Bulletin Board messages.
- Megaphone item (uses the Switch 2 mic to call friends and locate Islanders).
- 12-player simultaneous online support.
- CameraPlay via GameChat (allows players to see friends’ faces over their characters).
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for ACNH mainly provides visual benefits and features that utilize the Switch 2’s new hardware. While 12-player online support is a notable advantage for certain activities, the Switch 2 Edition’s additions are largely appreciated but not essential for enjoying the core game.
ACNH Ver.3.0 Features Free on Switch and Switch 2
The Version 3.0 update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons delivers the most substantial new content. While online play and graphical upgrades are welcome, the new Resort Hotel is a major draw for returning players. With a 3-Star Island Rating, players can work at the hotel and earn new rewards.
- Resort Hotel (decorate rooms to earn Hotel Tickets and new items).
- DIY Island Goods (craft DIY items and trade them for Hotel Tickets).
- Storage expansion (9,000 item maximum).
- Resetti’s Island Reset Service (resets parts of an island by storing items to simplify redesigns).
- Slumber Island (create up to three Slumber Islands to customize with friends and set up scenarios with villagers).
- Nintendo collaboration items and retro titles (available from the hotel souvenir shop, requires upgrading island brand recognition).
Future item collaborations and crossovers have been hinted at, with some already available and more planned. In addition to Nintendo-themed items, players can also acquire Lego-themed cosmetics and items for room designs.
Most of the new and engaging content in Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ latest update is entirely free, accessible on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. Players who have not yet upgraded their console can still return to enjoy all the new features the update offers.
