This article is a translation of the following Japanese article:
Original: 【あつ森】最新アップデート 1/14 配信まとめ｜追加要素・季節イベント一覧
In Nintendo’s popular life simulation game “Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” Free update “Ver.3.0” has been released on January 15, 2026.
With this major update, many players around the world are getting an early taste of the new content.
Author: “This update includes so many additional features that it has been described as the “largest scale ever,” and even users who have been playing the game for many years have had a fresh experience.
Here, we will summarize in detail the latest update contents distributed on 1/14.
1. Release date and supported platforms
This Ver.3.0 update will be distributed free of charge from January 14, 2026.
This will be applied to both the existing version for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 version, but Switch 2 version exclusive features will be gradually supported from January 15th.
2. New content/main additional elements
2-1. A resort hotel appears on the island
A “resort hotel” has appeared near the island’s pier and is now ready to welcome tourists.
At this hotel,
- Room decoration
- Service for visitors
- Obtain hotel-specific furniture and clothing
have been added.
Author: “The idea that your island functions as a tourist destination is a new way to play that hasn’t existed in Animal Crossing before.”
2-2. Addition of dream island area
The update added “Island of Dreams”, and
this island has modes that allow you to develop and design it as you like.
On a regular island, there are many restrictions, but on Dream Island you can enjoy a layout with a high degree of freedom.
2-3. Craft-related improvements
It is now possible to craft multiple items at once.
If you have the materials, you can now create up to 10 items at once, greatly improving work efficiency.
In addition, Items in your home storage can now be treated as crafting materials, making storage organization and crafting more intuitive.
Author: “It may seem like a small improvement, but it’s an important change that will greatly reduce the burden of daily play.”
2-4. Enhancements to DIY recipe app
A Hotel Request Confirmation Page has been added to the DIY menu, making it easier to see
hotel-related recipes and items requested by Tom Nook.
2-5. ストレージ・Quality improvement
To make events and furniture gathering easier
- Items that can be used as DIY materials can be used directly from storage
- Improved usability of home storage
.
3. Amiibo support expansion
There are also reports that compatibility with some amiibos will be improved from Ver.3.0.
It has been confirmed that it is possible to call specific residents or obtain furniture by loading the corresponding amiibo.
Author: “Details have not been officially announced yet, but this is a welcome addition for returning users and collectors of the series.”
4. Early distribution and feedback
The original release was scheduled for January 15th, but there are reports that distribution has started early in the morning to late at night on January 14th in many areas.
In particular, many users in Oceania, Europe, and Japan seem to be experiencing it right away.
Author: “Being able to play the game earlier than planned can be called a fait accompli release, which is unique to globally popular titles.”
5. Related events and advance campaigns
Before the update,
A collaboration event with “Tetris 99” was held as an official Nintendo event, and the preliminary battle was exciting, with limited themes available.
6. Future plans
- Additional features of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: 4K support, mouse operation, online play with up to 12 people, etc. (after January 15th)
- More information on new residents, seasonal events, collaboration items, etc. will be announced from the official website
Author: “The 3.0 update is a major milestone, but it is the largest content addition to the series that is expected to develop further in the future.”
Summary | Key points of the 1/14 distribution update
With this update, “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” will be updated.
- Large content “Resort Hotel” introduced
- Free creation possible on the island of dreams
- Improved craft storage convenience
- Amiibo support expansion
- Early distribution makes it a worldwide topic
There have been changes that radically expand the way the game as a whole is played. Author: “There’s been a lot of talk about an early release before the distribution date, but this is a major update that makes it feel like the beginning of a new chapter for the series.I hope both beginners and returning players will enjoy the new features to the fullest.”