After years without major updates, "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" is making a surprise comeback. Nintendo has announced that Update 3.0 will launch on January 15 to give fans a compelling reason to return to their islands.
The free update introduces Kapp'n's new resort hotel, quality-of-life improvements, and a wave of new items designed to refresh the gameplay experience.
Kapp'n's Resort Hotel Brings Back Creative Decorating
The centerpiece of Update 3.0 is Kapp'n's resort hotel, a feature reminiscent of the "Happy Home Paradise" DLC. Players will design hotel rooms tailored to guests' preferences, blending creativity with progression.
By crafting items for Tom Nook, players earn hotel tickets, which can be exchanged for exclusive new furniture and décor. The system rewards experimentation and customization. Interestingly, this adds a satisfying new loop to daily gameplay.
New Items, Nintendo Crossovers, and Slumber Island
Update 3.0 significantly expands inventories at Nook's Cranny and Nook Shopping. Players can unlock Nintendo-themed consoles and special collaborations featuring "LEGO," "The Legend of Zelda," and "Splatoon. "Some items require amiibo to access, giving collectors additional goals to chase.
The update also introduces Slumber Island, a new customizable dream island, and Resetti's Reset Service, bringing back a familiar face while adding more variety to island life.
Free My Nintendo Wallpaper Celebrates the Update
To celebrate the update's release, My Nintendo is offering a free digital wallpaper featuring Kapp'n's resort hotel, according to Gaming Bible.
Available in multiple sizes for PC, smartphones, and tablets, the wallpaper can be downloaded simply by signing in. You don't have to spend your Platinum Points here.
Fans have already praised its colorful, cozy design across several platforms, including Reddit and X.
Paid New-Gen Upgrade Adds 4K Visuals and Expanded Multiplayer
Players upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2 version can access a paid enhancement for £4.19 / $4.99. This upgrade delivers 4K visuals, 12-player online multiplayer, and new communication options like GameChat. Switch 2 users can also use a purchasable in-game Megaphone to connect with friends across islands.
If you love cozy Switch games like this, check our previous article here.
Originally published on Player One
