Pre-orders for Animal Crossing New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition are available now from several US and UK retailers ahead of the game’s January 15, 2026 release. Physical editions are listed at the normal MSRP and can be reserved for in-store pickup or home delivery.
Physical copies do not contain the full Switch 2 build on the game cart. Instead, boxed copies include the original Switch game cart and a redeemable voucher that grants the Switch 2 upgrade. Players who already own New Horizons can buy the digital Switch 2 Upgrade Pack for $4.99 in the US or £4.19 in the UK. The upgrade adds higher-resolution output, mouse support, the new Megaphone item, GameChat support, and expanded online multiplayer for up to 12 players.
Retailers currently listing the physical Switch 2 edition include Best Buy and Walmart in the US. Nintendo’s storefront shows the product page as coming soon. In the UK, options include ShopTo, TheGameCollection, and Nintendo’s UK store. The free Ver.3.0 content update also arrives on January 15 and will be available to players on older Switch hardware as well as Switch 2 owners. That update includes a new resort area run by Kapp’n’s family, additional items, and other content additions that ship alongside the Switch 2 enhancements.
If you prefer not to buy a boxed copy, the upgrade pack on Nintendo’s store is the cheapest route to get the Switch 2 features for an existing New Horizons copy.
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Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Developed by Nintendo EPD Production Group No. 5
Escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create, and customize in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. 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.
- Genre: Simulator
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch
- Modes: Single player, Multiplayer, Co-operative, Split screen
- Release: 2020-03-20
- Publisher: Nintendo
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Age Rating:
ACB G / USK 0 / CERO A / ESRB E / GRAC ALL / CLASS_IND L / PEGI 3
- IGDB Rating: 82.4/100
