Nintendo Releases First Update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons in Nearly Three Years
In a surprise move, Nintendo has released the first update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons in nearly three years, ahead of the launch of the Switch 2 on June 5. According to GameSpot, the update improves the compatibility for multiplayer sessions between Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch, ensuring a smooth transition for players.
The update, as noted by GameSpot, "improve[s] the compatibility for multiplayer sessions between Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch." This move is part of Nintendo’s effort to ensure that some of its tentpole games from the original Switch are compatible with the new console. The update’s timing and focus suggest that Nintendo is emphasizing cross-platform performance and backwards compatibility to ensure a smooth console transition.
This update is significant, as it comes nearly three years after the game’s last update in November 2022. Animal Crossing: New Horizons originally launched in March 2020, at the onset of widespread lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic, which supercharged its popularity. According to GameSpot, despite its adoption rate by Switch owners, Nintendo has not announced plans for a specific Switch 2 version of the game, unlike other headliners such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
The release of this update ahead of the Switch 2 launch suggests that Nintendo is committed to ensuring that its popular games remain compatible with the new console. As GameSpot reports, a steady stream of news about the console has emerged, including the revelation of cross-platform games that are getting Switch 2 enhanced editions. For example, Pokemon Legends: Z-A comes out in October for both consoles, and the Switch 2 version will have improved graphics and performance.
The update is a welcome surprise for fans of the game, who have been eagerly awaiting new content. As noted by GameSpot, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has maintained a strong player base since its release, and this update ensures that players can continue to enjoy the game with friends on both the original Switch and the new Switch 2.
In conclusion, the release of this update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a significant move by Nintendo to ensure that its popular game remains compatible with the new Switch 2 console. As reported by GameSpot, the update improves multiplayer compatibility between the two consoles, ensuring a smooth transition for players. With the Switch 2 launch just around the corner, it’s clear that Nintendo is committed to supporting its existing games and ensuring that they remain enjoyable for players on both the original Switch and the new console.
The update is a testament to Nintendo’s commitment to its existing player base, and it’s likely that fans of the game will be pleased with the continued support. As GameSpot notes, the update’s focus on cross-platform compatibility is a key aspect of Nintendo’s strategy to ensure a smooth console transition. By prioritizing backwards compatibility and cross-platform play, Nintendo is setting itself up for success with the Switch 2 launch.
