The eagerly awaited 3.0 update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons has officially launched, delivering a wealth of new features and significant quality-of-life enhancements to the popular game. This update, arriving sooner than expected, introduces several functionalities that were not initially part of the promotional announcements, much to the delight of the player community.
Nintendo had previously outlined a dual update strategy for late 2025, comprising Version 3.0 and a specialized Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. While the Switch 2 variant leverages the console's advanced hardware, offering features like mouse control, Version 3.0 focuses on enriching the core gameplay. Key additions include a new resetting service, an array of fresh items, and the prominent new hotel, which players are tasked with decorating.
Among the most impactful changes are the improvements to the crafting system. Players can now craft multiple items simultaneously and, crucially, utilize materials directly from their home storage—a highly requested feature since the game's inception. Furthermore, a dedicated tab in the DIY Recipes app streamlines requests related to the new hotel. Customization options have also been expanded, allowing players to purchase up to 50 customization kits at Nook's Cranny at once.
Terraforming and island decoration have received a substantial upgrade with a new movement mechanic. By holding the left shoulder button, players can now slide across their island while maintaining their direction, and a quick tap allows for precise 90-degree turns, greatly simplifying the process of creating paths and intricate layouts.
Adding to the excitement, two exclusive furniture sets are now universally accessible through Nook Shopping. The Mario-themed items and Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp items, once restricted to users who linked their Nintendo Account or played the mobile game, are now available to all players, broadening the decorative possibilities.
Beyond the official patch notes, players have already begun uncovering charming new details. Hotel guests who once resided on the island now exhibit memories of their past interactions with the player, adding a layer of depth to character engagement. Additionally, Luna's customizable Slumber Islands now boast 100 custom design slots each, and players can decorate the exterior of the new hotel, fostering creativity and personalization. With the update still fresh, the community anticipates discovering even more hidden gems and functionalities in the coming weeks and months.
This comprehensive update not only addresses long-standing player requests but also introduces innovative features that enhance various aspects of island life, from crafting and customization to terraforming and social interactions, promising an even more immersive and enjoyable experience in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.