Why ‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ Is the Perfect Escape for Today’s World

In 2020, gaming took a unique turn, especially with the release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons on March 20. Just as the world was changing due to the pandemic, this game became a soothing escape for many. With lockdowns forcing people indoors, New Horizons offered a comforting virtual space to explore and connect with friends.

As of December 31, 2024, New Horizons became the second-best-selling game on the Nintendo Switch, with over 47 million copies sold. It’s hard to remember a time when finding a Nintendo Switch wasn’t a challenge, as many rushed to join the New Horizons community during what became known as the Great Switch Shortage of 2020.

But what made this life-simulation game so captivating? At its core, Animal Crossing is about creativity and community. Players start on a deserted island, crafting their own paradise by planting trees, crafting furniture, and inviting charming animal neighbors. You won’t lose in this game. Instead of competition, it’s about building your space and enjoying the daily rhythm of island life.

The game’s simple premise, coupled with its serene aesthetic, drew in gamers and non-gamers alike. Nintendo redesigned the gameplay, allowing players to control more aspects of their island. Unlike previous entries, where villagers decided where to build their homes, New Horizons let you choose their locations, adding a layer of personalization.

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. While New Horizons embraced the essence of building a community, it fell short in areas like multiplayer functionality. Players faced connectivity issues when trying to visit friends’ islands. Many felt frustrated as these glitches hampered an integral part of the experience—trading and sharing.

Despite its ups and downs, the game captured the mood of its time. Reviews were generally positive, often tinted by the challenges of the pandemic. Players shared countless memes and stories about their in-game adventures, creating a community that felt even more special in a time of social distancing.

Since its launch, New Horizons received a series of updates that kept the experience fresh. Nintendo added features like a café where players could brew coffee and cook in the game. However, after November 2022, updates slowed, leaving the game feeling somewhat stagnant.

The question now is: Should you play New Horizons in 2025? If you’re a new player, diving in now can still bring hours of fun. The creativity and charm of the game offer a delightful escape that can be enjoyed at any pace. However, if you played it extensively at launch, you may find little new to engage with.

As we look to the future, Nintendo is likely working on new adventures. With speculation around the next Animal Crossing game arriving after the release of the next Nintendo console, there’s a sense of anticipation for what new features and experiences might await players.

Ultimately, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just a game—it’s a reflection of a unique moment in time, where people found solace in virtual connections and creative expression amidst uncertainty.

For further insights and updates, you can check out this research on gaming trends during the pandemic.

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