Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Cozy Island Life on Nintendo Switch
If there’s one game that defines cozy gaming, it’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Escape to your own island, decorate at your pace, and enjoy calm, creative play that has made this Nintendo Switch hit a timeless favorite.
Last updated: October 25, 2025
Is Animal Crossing: New Horizons Worth Playing in 2025?
Yes — if you want a stress-free, real-time life sim about decorating, collecting, and gentle routines you can enjoy for a few minutes a day. It shines when you embrace its slow pace and creative goals.
- Play if… you love decorating, collecting sets, and low-pressure daily goals.
- Skip if… you need constant action, skill progression, or a deep story campaign.
- Best on… Nintendo Switch (handheld comfort + easy screenshot sharing).
What Is Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
Animal Crossing: New Horizons puts you on a deserted island where you slowly build a vibrant community. Collect resources, design your home, shop with friends, and enjoy seasonal events alongside over 400 quirky animal villagers. Whether you’re farming, fishing, or simply relaxing, it’s cozy gaming at its best.
Why It’s the Perfect Cozy Game
- Gentle pacing: Play day by day, with no timers or pressure.
- Creative freedom: Decorate your island, customize clothing, and design every corner.
- Charming characters: Befriend villagers with unique personalities.
- Relaxing music: A soothing soundtrack that shifts with time and weather.
- Multiplayer fun: Invite friends to your island or visit theirs online.
How Long Does It Take?
There’s no hard ending. Expect 20–30 hours to reach a comfortable island flow, 60–100+ hours if you curate themed areas, and essentially infinite time if you chase museum completion, seasonal sets, and dream island designs.
Multiplayer, Co-Op, and Online
- Local “Party Play”: Up to 4 players on one Switch share the same island (one island per console).
- Online visits: Up to 8 players can visit an island together via friends/Dodo Code.
- Subscription: Online play requires Nintendo Switch Online.
- Cross-platform: Not applicable — the game is Switch-exclusive.
Beginner Tips (Your First Week)
- Rush Nook Miles+, then buy inventory upgrades and essential DIY recipes first.
- Always craft a spare net and fishing rod; donate one of each new bug/fish to the museum.
- Shake non-fruit trees carefully (wasps!) and hit rocks for iron/clay; eat a fruit before breaking a rock.
- Plant fruit from Mystery Islands for steady bells; save hybrids for later design projects.
- Don’t stress early layouts — you can relocate buildings and terraform later.
Potential Dealbreakers
- Real-time pacing: Progress is deliberately slow without time-travel.
- One island per console: Households share a single island unless you own multiple systems.
- Routine loop: Daily chores repeat — meditative for some, grindy for others.
- Online paywall: Visiting friends requires Nintendo Switch Online.
Happy Home Paradise DLC
Expand your creativity with the Happy Home Paradise DLC. Travel to a new island chain where you design dream vacation homes, unlock fresh furniture, and bring your creations back to your main island. It’s a must-have for fans who love decorating.
Where to Play
Animal Crossing: New Horizons FAQs
Is Animal Crossing still worth playing?
Yes — with seasonal content, an active fan base, and endless creativity, it remains one of the best cozy games ever made.
Can I play with friends?
Absolutely. Up to eight players can visit an island through online play (Nintendo Switch Online required); local Party Play supports up to four on one console.
How long does it take to “finish”?
There’s no true ending. Many players aim for a 5-star island, museum completion, or themed builds — easily 60–100+ hours.
Do I need the DLC?
No, but Happy Home Paradise adds a full decorating career mode if interior design is your thing.
Final Thoughts
Animal Crossing: New Horizons isn’t just a cozy game — it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re fishing at sunset, designing your dream village, or relaxing with friends, it delivers the perfect island escape. Pair it with Happy Home Paradise for even more creative freedom.
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Looking for more? Check out our full Cozy Games Hub for hand-picked relaxing games across every genre.
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