How to play Animal Crossing: New Horizons

The objective

Your goal is simple: build a peaceful island life through gathering, decorating, friendships, and daily projects. This guide uses the most common beginner-friendly rules. Families and groups may agree on variations before starting.

What you need

Animal Crossing: New Horizons on Nintendo Switch.

How to set up

1. Create or join an island and choose your character and starting layout.
2. Complete the opening tasks to place a tent and learn basic tools.

How to play: step by step

1. Gather materials by fishing, catching bugs, shaking trees, and collecting resources.
2. Craft tools and furniture, then improve your home and island.
3. Meet residents, complete small tasks, and visit shops.
4. Set personal goals for decorating, collecting, or designing.

Beginner strategies

• Carry a net when shaking trees.
• Save rare creatures for the museum before selling duplicates.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Changing the system clock without understanding possible effects.
• Spending all currency before keeping some for useful upgrades.

Frequently asked questions