Summary
- Rumors suggest a 2026 debut for the next Animal Crossing with exciting new features like a city, vehicles, and intricate multiplayer options.
- The possibility of a giant shopping mall and a revamped multiplayer experience could potentially revolutionize the beloved game series, but these rumors should be taken lightly until an official confirmation is shared.
Nearly four years after the last Animal Crossing game, the community is eagerly awaiting news of a new installment. Though Nintendo has yet to confirm if another title is in development, after the runaway success of New Horizons, it seems likely. After all, the silence from Nintendo could be a strategic move towards building anticipation for a future announcement.
Interestingly, given the franchise's usual release schedule for mainline titles, it appears that such an announcement could be right around the corner. Typically, Nintendo introduces a fresh Animal Crossing game every three to four years. Notably, New Leaf and New Horizons were a staggering eight years apart with only apps and spin-offs such as Pocket Camp and Happy Home Designer released between.
A New Animal Crossing Could Debut in 2026
The Next Animal Crossing Could Be Slated for a Next-Gen Debut
On March 13, 2024, rumors surfaced online claiming a new Animal Crossing game is developing. The source, Twitter user "NWeedle," is suggesting a 2026 release, which would mean the game is targeted to come out six years after New Horizons. Of course, Nintendo could be purposefully delaying the game into 2026 to release it on its rumored next-gen console, nicknamed the "Switch 2." According to the claims, the next game will feature the following:
- A city complete with skyscrapers
- Drivable vehicles
- Adventure missions (including puzzles and mini-games)
- More intensive multiplayer support
While mini-games aren't a new concept in the Animal Crossing universe, the more intensive puzzles introduced in New Leaf were enjoyable. As a result, similarly challenging mini-games in a future installment would be exciting. NWeedle has hinted that this will include cake throwing, vehicle races, birthday celebrations, and a game called "Mouse Hunt."
The Next Animal Crossing Could Have a Giant Shopping Mall
Theories surrounding the next Animal Crossing game are only continuing to grow, with whispers suggesting a brand-new monetary system. This could involve the introduction of a massive shopping center, potentially reminiscent of the bustling Main Street in New Leaf or The City found in both New Leaf and City Folk. Speculation points towards players owning and operating their own shops within the shopping center, similar to Nook's Cranny, which is managed by Timmy and Tommy in New Horizons.
A more robust multiplayer experience in Animal Crossing has always been a thrilling premise. The rumored shopping center, if implemented, could revolutionize how players interact with each other via vibrant shopping sprees while visiting friends' towns and fostering deeper connections. The Twitter rumors have even hinted at the possibility of purchasing vehicles within the center, which, if true, could significantly alter how players travel around their city.
Unfortunately, while the source credited for these theories has a decent following on Twitter, they lack a track record of reliable leaks. Additionally, the source's post being in Spanish raises the possibility of mistranslation, which can lead to incorrect details being shared. However, given that New Horizons was announced two years before its launch, there's a possibility that Nintendo will unveil news about a new game in the near future.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- Released
- March 20, 2020
WHERE TO PLAY
Escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create, and customize in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. Your island getaway has a wealth of natural resources that can be used to craft everything from tools to creature comforts. You can hunt down insects at the crack of dawn, decorate your paradise throughout the day, or enjoy sunset on the beach while fishing in the ocean. The time of day and season match real life, so each day on your island is a chance to check in and find new surprises all year round.
Show off your island utopia to family and friends—or pack your bags and visit theirs. Whether playing online** or with others beside you***, island living is even better when you can share it. Even without hopping on a flight, you’ll meet a cast of charming animal residents bursting with personality. Friendly faces like Tom Nook and Isabelle will lend their services and happily help you grow your budding community. Escape to your island getaway—however, whenever, and wherever you want.
- ESRB
- Everyone / Comic Mischief, Mild Fantasy Violence, Users Interact, In-Game Purchases
- Developer(s)
- Nintendo EPD
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
- Multiplayer
- Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer
- Expansions
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Happy Home Paradise
- Franchise
- Animal Crossing
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
- Genre(s)
- Simulation
- How Long To Beat
- 100 Hours
