The Animal Crossing New Horizons 3.0 update is set to release January 15, 2026, adding new features like 12-player multiplayer, resort hotel customization, and a return of the Megaphone tool, while a new Switch 2 Edition launches the same day with upgraded graphics, mouse controls, and more.
Animal Crossing World, posting on X via @ACWorldBlog, announced that a free Version 3.0 Update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons and a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition are coming on January 15th, 2026.
Searches for the Animal Crossing New Horizons 3.0 update are surging now, and not just because the content drop is massive. The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition was officially announced during the September 2025 Nintendo Direct, spiking interest among both longtime fans and new console owners.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 Update Details
Release date: January 15, 2026.
Major features added:
-
Megaphone tool returns, letting players call out villagers via microphone to locate them instantly.
-
Resort Hotel opens on your island, managed by Kapp’n’s family, with decorated themed rooms, earn Hotel Tickets, unlock exclusive furniture, and Nintendo collectibles.
-
Expanded multiplayer: Up to 12 players online, versus the previous 8-player cap, with full voice chat and face-cam (with Switch 2 Camera accessory).
-
Classic Nintendo nostalgia: Collect and play NES, Game Boy, and Super Famicom consoles with Dr. Mario and Ice Climbers included.
-
Storage expansion: Item limit jumps from 5,000 to 9,000 storing more trees, shrubs, LEGO-themed decorations, and Dream World assets.
-
Slumber Islands and Dream Worlds: Collaborate with friends on dreamlike environments and creative makeovers.
-
LEGO furniture and clothing: A burst of color and customization.
-
Feature collaborations: Zelda/Splatoon items, amiibo invites (Tulin, Mineru), new design tools.
This update is free for all ACNH owners on both Switch and Switch 2 and rolls out via digital download, so you’ll need internet access. You'll see "version 3.0" in the game's settings after updating. For comparison, the original 2.0 update dropped on November 4, 2021, with Brewster, 16 new villagers, farming, Gyroids, ordinances, and storage raised from 2,400 to 5,000.
ACNH 3.0 Update and Switch 2 Edition Release Date and Price
Nintendo confirmed both Animal Crossing New Horizons 3.0 update and Switch 2 Edition are launching January 15, 2026, per the September 2025 Nintendo Direct and official press release. Price details:
-
Switch 2 Edition: $64.99 USD, available both digitally/download and physically retail.
-
Upgrade Pack: If you own the original on Switch, add Switch 2 features for just $4.99.
What makes Switch 2 Edition different?
-
Graphics resolution jumps to 4K (TV mode), improved anti-aliasing, 30 fps lock.
-
Mouse controls via Joy-Con 2, for decorating interiors and designing custom patterns. Single- and multi-select options are now possible.
-
Megaphone restored (Nook’s Cranny, 3,500 Bells).
-
Multiplayer up to 12, full online GameChat, and face-cam if you own the Switch 2 Camera.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition Details
Switch 2 Edition, officially announced at the September 2025 Nintendo Direct:
-
Hardware: Colors and dock artwork yet to be revealed, but leaks suggest pastel-inspired docks and Joy-Con 2 with subtle leaf motifs. Physical and digital versions available on launch day.
-
What you get: Game pre-installed (digital purchase); physical copy also includes a Resort Hotel DLC voucher and unique themed items.
-
Pre-order: Starts November 20, 2025, at major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Nintendo eShop).
-
Exclusive content: Resort Hotel items, Nintendo collectibles, and a Switch 2 Camera coupon for first buyers.
-
Global release: North America, Europe, and Japan confirmed. India and other regions may follow within six weeks post-launch.
-
Backward compatibility and save transfers: If you're upgrading from the original Switch, islands and save data migrate via cloud or direct transfer; details show up in your Switch 2 settings menu.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and reflects updates, features, and details available as of publication. Features or release dates for Animal Crossing New Horizons 3.0 update and Switch 2 Edition may change per Nintendo’s official channels.
