Summary
While theAnimal Crossingfranchise may have been going strong since 2001, there has yet to be a sequel within it. Instead of crafting fully-fledged sequels, Nintendo has chosen to take the series to brand-new locales and adopt whole new concepts with each entry. This has made for a varied and unique series where players constantly argue over which is better. However, that approach may have to change with the nextAnimal CrossingfollowingAnimal Crossing: New Horizons.
There is no news on when the nextAnimal Crossingwill hit store shelves, and based on the franchise’s history, it will likely be a while before players are treated to that next chapter. But, when that next title finally comes around, it may come in the form ofAnimal Crossing’s first fully-fledged sequel. Just like withThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wildbefore it,the success ofAnimal Crossing: New Horizonsmay change the franchise forever.
Animal Crossing New Horizons Feels Like the Perfect Template
New Horizons Was Unlike Anything Animal Crossing Has Seen
WhileAnimal Crossinghas always been a popular series, nothing compares to the sheer success ofNew Horizons. The game came out at the perfect time, and as such, it quickly becamethe best-sellingAnimal Crossingof all time. The COVID-19 pandemic forced people to stay indoors, so with nothing else to turn to, millions got lost in the world ofAnimal Crossing. Not only did it serve as the perfect escape from the real world, but it was also used to host dozens of things including graduations, weddings, and even talk shows.
Animal Crossing: New Horizonsbenefited greatly from its release date, but it likely would not have been as successful if it was not for the extremely satisfying gameplay loop. This game took the franchise’s tried-and-true concept to new heights by introducing a plethora of new mechanics which gave players almost free rein to construct the village of their dreams. It was then further expanded upon with monthly updates andthe exciting Happy Home Paradise DLC. All of this made for an experience that fans will not soon forget, and they may not have to.
Nintendo Could Do So Much With the New Horizons Concept
Animal Crossing: New Horizonsdid forAnimal CrossingwhatBreath of the Wilddid forThe Legend of Zelda. Both titles took their franchise’s core concepts and completely reinvented them for the Nintendo Switch era. Because of that reinvention, both became massive sensations and are often regarded as the best in their respective franchises. Instead of moving on from that success, Nintendo greenlit a direct sequel in the form ofTears of the Kingdom, which also seemed to have paid off immensely. So, it only makes sense that it would do the same withNew Horizons.
New Horizonsnot only brought in hardcore fans, but it also introduced the franchise to a whole new audience, as seen by the sales numbers. Instead of leaving that behind, Nintendo should go all in on the concept and deliver the first-ever full-fledged sequel.New Horizons 2could further expand the franchisewith even more new mechanics, far greater freedom, and maybe even give players more islands to play with. As long as it maintained the quality of the first one, it could be another massive hit for the studio.
It will likely be a while until the studio is ready to shed some light on the next chapter ofAnimal Crossing. But becauseNew Horizonswas so big, it would make complete sense to stick with that title rather than continuing the anthology nature of the past. While there is a strong chance that this success will not alter the studio’s approach,New Horizons 2just sounds like too easy of a win to be ignored.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
WHERE TO PLAY
Escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create, and customize in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. 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.Show off your island utopia to family and friends—or pack your bags and visit theirs. Whether playing online** or with others beside you***, island living is even better when you can share it. Even without hopping on a flight, you’ll meet a cast of charming animal residents bursting with personality. Friendly faces like Tom Nook and Isabelle will lend their services and happily help you grow your budding community. Escape to your island getaway—however, whenever, and wherever you want.
