Even after the phenomenal success of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which launched during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago, Nintendo remains silent regarding any announcements about a new mainline entry in the Animal Crossing series. Early speculations suggested that a new title might coincide with the anticipated release of the Switch 2 either this year or soon after; however, such hopes appear to be dwindling.
Since the last substantial update in late 2021, when version 2.0 of New Horizons launched alongside the Happy Home Paradise DLC, the Animal Crossing fanbase has been eagerly awaiting news of the next installment. Meanwhile, discussions and rumors within the community have painted a picture of desired features for the forthcoming game. Fans have expressed hopes for expanded multiplayer options, larger town sizes, and even the addition of a shopping mall.
The Next Animal Crossing May Not Debut In 2025
No Animal Crossing News in the Switch 2 Direct—A 2025 Release Seems Unlikely
In April 2025, Nintendo officially revealed the Nintendo Switch 2. During the presentation, several new features, a release date, and upcoming titles were announced. However, despite New Horizons standing as the second best-selling game on the Switch, no announcements regarding a new entry in the Animal Crossing series were made.
The unveiling of Tomodachi Life: Living The Dream at the tail end of the presentation raises further doubts regarding the future of Animal Crossing. Given both games belong to the casual life simulation category, the introduction of Tomodachi Life suggests that another title particularly aimed at life-simulation enthusiasts may not be coming out this year.
Given the launch date for Tomodachi Life shortly after the Switch 2’s debut, it appears that a new Animal Crossing is unlikely to arrive until 2026 or later. Historically, releases for the franchise have occurred every three to four years, with the longest interval being between 2012’s New Leaf and 2020’s New Horizons.
What the Switch 2 Timeline Looks Like
Nintendo Switch 2 Set to Launch This Summer
With the confirmed June 5, 2025 release date for the Nintendo Switch 2, it’s enlightening to consider how Animal Crossing might fit into this timeline. The presentation showcased over 20 games, some slated as launch titles and others set for release throughout 2026, including FromSoft’s exclusivity, The Duskbloods. However, Animal Crossing was notably absent from this lineup, a situation that doesn’t entirely negate the possibility that a new title is in development.
While the spotlight during the initial marketing phase of the Switch 2 is largely cast on iconic franchises featuring Mario, with Mario Kart World being an optional console bundle, Nintendo’s commitment to Animal Crossing should not be underestimated. Given its remarkable success on the Nintendo Switch and its status as one of Nintendo’s highest-grossing intellectual properties, Animal Crossing has a persistent and enthusiastic fanbase eager for new content.
While Tomodachi Life: Living The Dream appeals to a specific nostalgia, it may not replicate the sustained success and dedicated following typical of the Animal Crossing series. Thus, the absence of Animal Crossing from the 2025 lineup might be more strategic than it first appears, with the possibility of an official announcement later this year and a prospective launch in 2026.
Rumored New Animal Crossing Features & Gameplay
The Next Animal Crossing Could Be the Ultimate Game Worth the Wait
Although fans are still waiting for official announcements regarding the next installment on the Switch 2, several leaks have surfaced indicating that the new Animal Crossing title might emerge as an “ultimate”version, according to insider NWeedle on X (formerly Twitter; as reported by ComicBook.com). Features being discussed include drivable vehicles, cities filled with skyscrapers, enhanced cooperative multiplayer, and an array of adventurous missions that would significantly elevate gameplay dynamics. If verified, these enhancements would certainly justify the wait until 2026.
Additional speculation hints that players might gain access to a complete shopping center where they can run their businesses, selling custom clothing and furniture designs. While NWeedle doesn’t have a robust history of reliable leak confirmations, the features mentioned appear plausible for a sequel to New Horizons. It’s essential, however, to approach rumors with a healthy dose of skepticism. Moreover, many fans hope for the return of beloved features from earlier versions that were omitted in New Horizons.
Fans have consistently requested the reintegration of aspects like multiplayer mini-games, deeper interactions with Villagers, a comprehensive post office, extensive customization options for buildings, a broader furniture catalog, and the inclusion of beloved fruits like bananas, mangos, and lemons. Arguably, Tomodachi Life: Living The Dream might provide insights into Nintendo’s direction for modern life-simulation games, possibly hinting at features expected for the next Animal Crossing release until more concrete information is revealed.
Source: NWeedle/X (via ComicBook.com)