Nintendo officially announced Animal Crossing: New Horizons as a title for the Nintendo Switch during its 2019 Direct presentation.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons was released worldwide for the Nintendo Switch, marking a major installment in the Animal Crossing series.
Due to global circumstances, Animal Crossing: New Horizons experienced unprecedented popularity worldwide, becoming a cultural phenomenon in 2020.
Nintendo released the first major update to New Horizons adding new features and fixing bugs.
Nintendo announced the 2.0 free content update which would bring new gameplay elements, events, and characters to Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
Nintendo released the major 2.0 free update that added extensive new content including K.K. Slider concerts, new crafting, and a museum expansion.
The player arrives on a deserted island to start their new life with Tom Nook's guidance.
The player constructs their initial tent as their first home on the island.
Tent is upgraded to the Resident Services building, serving as the island's main hub.
New villagers arrive and settle on the island, expanding the community.
The island's shop, Nook's Cranny, opens to offer goods and tools.
Blanca, the mysterious face-painted cat, starts visiting during special events.
The museum is completed with contributions of fossils, fish, bugs, and art.
Bridges and inclines are constructed to improve island accessibility.
The player's tent is upgraded to a house with multiple expansions over time.
K.K. Slider visits the island and holds his first live concert for residents.
The island earns certification as a national park due to its development and community.
