How to download the Version 3.0 update - Animal Crossing: New Horizons

It's time to go back to the island.

You would be forgiven if it has been a while since you logged in to Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The game was a cultural phenomenon that got a lot of us through pandemic lockdowns, but the world has moved on since then. With the launch of the Switch 2 version and the Version 3.0 update, it's time for the world to move back. This is how to install the 3.0 update, no matter which version you are playing.

How to download the Version 3.0 update - Animal Crossing: New Horizons

The first thing you will need to do is ensure that Animal Crossing: New Horizons is installed on your Nintendo Switch or Switch 2. If you have yet to purchase the game, you can simply do so via the Nintendo eShop on your device. Switch owners will find the game amongst their owned games on the Home page, while Switch 2 owners can check this guide if they already own the game.

With the game installed and your Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 connected to the internet, it's time to check for the update. Hover own the game icon on your Home page, then hit the + button on your controller. Select the Software Update option, and then select "Via the Internet".

Your Switch device will now check Nintendo services to see if the update is available, and if so, it will automatically download it. If not, you will need to try again later. Nintendo rarely commits to specific times for these updates, instead just letting us know the date they will arrive. The Version 3.0 update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons is due on January 15 in Japan, and if past updates are any indicator, we can expect to see the update arrive at roughly 8pm CT on January 14 in the United States.

For more news and guides on the game, check out our dedicated Animal Crossing: New Horizons page.