Animal Crossing Is Back (Again) — And This Time It’s Big

After years of “this might be the last update,” Animal Crossing: New Horizons is getting a major free update on January 15, 2026. It’s called Version 3.0, and yes — it’s actually big.

There’s also a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for people who want smoother gameplay and better controls. You do not need it to enjoy the new content, but it’s there if you want more polish.

Here’s what’s coming, explained without hype yelling.

What’s Included in the Free 3.0 Update (All Players)

A Resort Hotel You Can Decorate

You’re getting a full resort hotel where visiting characters stay.

• You design themed guest rooms
• The hotel is run by Leilani and Kapp’n’s family
• Helping guests earns hotel tickets
• Tickets can be spent at Gran’s shop for new furniture and clothes

If you loved Happy Home Paradise, this feels like that energy but built right into the game.

Slumber Islands (Dream Big, Separately)

Slumber Islands are new dream-style islands that exist outside your main island.

• Fully customizable
• Different weather, time of day, and vibes
• Much bigger than normal dream spaces

These are perfect if you like designing without messing up your real island. Think of them as creative playgrounds.

Nintendo Crossover Villagers (Amiibo-Based)

This is the part people are asking about most.

Using existing amiibo, you can invite special villagers and unlock themed items from:

• The Legend of Zelda
• Splatoon

New villagers include:

• Tulin
• Mineru
• Cece
• Viché

Important clarification:

These use amiibo that already exist.

Nintendo is not releasing brand-new amiibo just for this update.

If you already own Zelda or Splatoon amiibo (including older ones), you can use them. If not, you can buy existing ones — no special “Animal Crossing-only” versions required.

Scanning amiibo also unlocks game-themed furniture and items, not just villagers.

Improved Amiibo Features

Amiibo use is more flexible now:

• Easier character invites
• More items unlocked
• Fewer limits than before

This update finally makes amiibo feel worth owning again.

Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Optional Paid Upgrade)

If you’re playing on Nintendo Switch 2, there’s an upgrade option.

What’s Different

• Mouse controls for decorating and placing items
• Better performance, especially online
• Improved visuals

You keep your island. This is an upgrade, not a reset.

Small Stuff That Still Matters

Some quieter additions that didn’t get as much attention:

• More furniture variations and colors
• New outdoor décor
• Small quality-of-life improvements that make building less annoying

Nothing flashy — just nicer to live with.

How to Get the Update

• Make sure your console is online
• The 3.0 update downloads automatically on January 15, 2026
• Switch 2 players can find the upgrade in the Nintendo eShop

Final Thoughts

This update feels very Animal Crossing in the best way:

• More decorating
• More creativity
• No pressure to “optimize” anything

If you drifted away from the game, this is a good reason to come back.

If you never left… I hope your villagers understand your absence again.