Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Mar 20, 2020 6 years ago

Trailer 1 / 7

Type Base game 2020 Genres Simulator Companies Nintendo · Publisher · Nintendo EPD Production Group No. 5 · Developer Follow Log in to follow

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.

What it’s like

Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a serene, persistent life-simulation experience where players cultivate a deserted island into a personalized paradise. The core loop revolves around the gentle rhythm of real-time seasons and day-night cycles, encouraging daily check-ins to gather resources, fish, catch bugs, and dig for fossils. There is no traditional narrative or combat; instead, the 'story' is entirely self-directed through creative expression and community building. The game shines in its depth of customization, allowing intricate control over island landscaping, home interiors, and character fashion. Its atmosphere is inherently cozy and wholesome, designed to provide a relaxing escape from daily stressors. While the pacing is deliberately slow, matching the passage of real-world time, this structure fosters long-term engagement and satisfaction through gradual accumulation of items and relationships with anthropomorphic animal neighbors.

Strong in Atmosphere / MoodPolish / PerformanceProgression / ReplayabilitySimulation / ManagementSocial / RelationshipsSystems Depth / Build VarietyAudio / MusicCharactersCo-op / MultiplayerExploration / WorldGameplay / MechanicsVisuals / Art

Keep in mind The game's reliance on real-time synchronization can feel restrictive for players seeking immediate progression or those who cannot play daily. Additionally, the core loop may become repetitive over time for users who prefer structured objectives or high-stakes challenges over open-ended creativity.

AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from ign.com, metacritic.com, opencritic.com, nintendolife.com, tomsguide.com.