Animal Crossing: New Horizons Gets a Surprise Update for Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility
In a surprising move, Nintendo has released a new update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, marking the first patch in nearly three years. This isn't just any update; it's specifically designed to improve compatibility with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, slated for launch on June 5, 2025. While some fans were hoping for more substantial content, this update primarily focuses on ensuring seamless multiplayer sessions between the original Switch and its successor. But is this enough to reignite interest in the beloved social simulation game?
The Version 2.0.7 update, as detailed on Nintendo's support page, "Improved the compatibility for multiplayer sessions between Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch." This means that players on both consoles can now interact more smoothly online. This update suggests Nintendo is prioritizing cross-platform performance and backwards compatibility, ensuring a smooth transition for players upgrading to the Switch 2.
While the update might seem minor, it sparks questions about the future of Animal Crossing. Will we see a dedicated Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 edition? At the Switch 2 launch, Nintendo is offering 12 free upgrades on their games, from "The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom" to Pokemon. As of right now, Animal Crossing is not an option; however, these new patches opens the possibilities in the future.
Remember the initial excitement when Animal Crossing: New Horizons launched in March 2020, right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic? It was a global phenomenon, offering players a cozy escape from the real world. However, many fans felt that the game was missing content compared to previous installments like Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Nintendo later added some of these features and items through post-launch updates, but the initial release felt somewhat lacking.
Over the years, the game’s popularity has declined to what can be expected of a game released 5 years ago. The fact that there hasn’t been a full title upgrade for the Switch 2 might sum the the game up for most fans, however it is promising to see Nintendo push to open the gates for cross-platform multiplayer across the original Switch and the Switch 2 console.
This surprise update begs the question: Is this a sign of more to come for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, or is it simply a gesture to ensure compatibility with the new console? Will this update bring lapsed players back to their islands, or is the game’s moment in the sun over? What are your thoughts on the Animal Crossing: New Horizons update? Still playing? Let us know in the comments below!
