Summary

  • Fans love recreating iconic scenes in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, like Spirited Away's train station entrance.
  • Despite the game receiving no major updates in some time, players continue to find new ways to enjoy the game, extending its lifespan in the community.

Players have frequently used Animal Crossing: New Horizons to bring some of their favorite films and shows into the realm of video games, including one fan who recreated the opening scene of Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away in the adorable life-sim. Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been praised for its extensive customization features, which have allowed players to make their own unique pop culture gaming crossovers.

First released in 2020, Animal Crossing: New Horizons skyrocketed to the tops of sales charts, due in large part to fans seeking relaxing gameplay and wholesome vibes during the Covid-19 shutdowns. In the years since its launch, fans have continued to find new ways to enjoy the game, such as remaking horror movies in Animal Crossing and bringing a classic anime to the world of New Horizons.

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Animal Crossing Fan Makes Adorable Lamp Featuring Coco and Marshal

A talented Animal Crossing fan showcases their stunning fully custom lamp inspired by the game, drawing awe and support from fellow fans.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons player heavymetalgf shared a side-by-side comparison of their recreation of one of the most iconic scenes in Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away. They utilized the expansive customization tools of Animal Crossing to remake the moment in which Chihiro and her parents first discover the hidden entrance to the spirit world within an old theme park train station building. The heavily forested scenery and recognizable stone statue at the entrance were reimagined in New Horizons, complete with the family car parked in the background and their in-game character styled with a green and white striped shirt and pink shorts to look just like Chihiro. Fans of the Oscar-winning Japanese animated film have often asked for a game based on Chihiro's story, and fellow Animal Crossing players were impressed by the fantastic recreation.

Spirited Away In Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Being able to bring the magical tale of Spirited Away into the welcoming setting of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is just one of the many reasons why fans have remained dedicated to the game. In spite of no major updates in almost two years, players have continued to enjoy making their own crossover content within the life-sim, extending the life-cycle of New Horizons. Fans have made some truly exceptional content, ranging from one-of-a-kind outfits and island layouts to reproductions of shows like Breaking Bad in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. With players adding even more fun pop culture references to the beloved title, the community is able to stay incredibly active with both official and fan-made content.

Numerous life-sim video games have been released over the years, and Animal Crossing remains a pillar of the genre. While many remain hopeful for a fresh installment in the long-running franchise, players continue to develop and design their own innovative creations in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

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Animal Crossing New Horizons Tag Page Cover Art
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Simulation
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Systems
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Top Critic Avg: 90 /100 Critics Rec: 99%
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Released
March 20, 2020
ESRB
Everyone / Comic Mischief, Mild Fantasy Violence, Users Interact, In-Game Purchases
Developer(s)
Nintendo EPD
Publisher(s)
Nintendo
Engine
Havok
Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer
Expansions
Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Happy Home Paradise
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
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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.

Franchise
Animal Crossing
Genre(s)
Simulation
How Long To Beat
100 Hours
Animal Crossing: New Horizons