User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 920 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 45 out of 920
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  1. Mar 24, 2014
    9
    Animal crossing never fails to disappoint, the New Leaf for the 3DS is much smoother, graphically beautiful and diverse than Wild World was on the original DS. The gameplay mechanic of being the mayor has much to improve upon, but it has made a start none the less. I do feel this game could do better with exclusive events and DLC, as to me, the game does kind of get boring, slow and evenAnimal crossing never fails to disappoint, the New Leaf for the 3DS is much smoother, graphically beautiful and diverse than Wild World was on the original DS. The gameplay mechanic of being the mayor has much to improve upon, but it has made a start none the less. I do feel this game could do better with exclusive events and DLC, as to me, the game does kind of get boring, slow and even tedious as you start to expand your house to the point where it costs hundreds of thousands of bells... Expand
  2. Oct 12, 2013
    10
    It's creative, It's cute, It's addictive, It's Animal Crossing and it's back and better than ever on the Nintendo 3DS system. Animal Crossing New Leaf is a life simulation game that has no other real goal than to just enjoy your life amongst your animal neighbors. New Leaf has so many new and amazing features that Animal Crossing fans have been waiting for. The whole catching fish andIt's creative, It's cute, It's addictive, It's Animal Crossing and it's back and better than ever on the Nintendo 3DS system. Animal Crossing New Leaf is a life simulation game that has no other real goal than to just enjoy your life amongst your animal neighbors. New Leaf has so many new and amazing features that Animal Crossing fans have been waiting for. The whole catching fish and bugs, digging up fossils, decorating your house, and chatting with your neighbors mechanic is all still there but you're not just a regular citizen in Animal Crossing anymore. You move to the town to find out you have accidentally been mistaken for the new mayor that was supposed to arrive and now, well, you become mayor! As mayor you can do things like set ordinances for your town to follow and set up creations in your town like benches and lighthouses. They mayor mechanic is small but it's a whole lot of fun. But ultimately your still playing Animal Crossing, and tons of new features have been added like an island area, new unique holidays, and tons of new stores that allow you to do and buy an assortment of different things. The Graphics are cute, colorful and are extremely well done, and while the music in the game is done very well, I think I still prefer Wild World and City Folks music a bit more. If you are an Animal Crossing fan who was worried that the new Animal Crossing game was just going to be City Folk with a fresh coat of paint I can tell you that New Leaf is most certainly not that. What it is, is a game that has added so much to the Animal Crossing series that the game will keep you entertained for years. From the fans of the AC series to the people who have never played a game in the franchise, I suggest picking up one of the best 3DS games on the market today, Animal Crossing New Leaf. Expand
  3. Jun 17, 2020
    6
    It's a great relaxing game with few faults on its own. It could be better in a lot of ways however. Music, ambiance, exploration, better dialogue. They took a lot of the challenge out of the series with this game and I think it would have been better if people had to work harder for bells and rare items. Getting rare valuable bugs and fish on the island should was game breaking and removedIt's a great relaxing game with few faults on its own. It could be better in a lot of ways however. Music, ambiance, exploration, better dialogue. They took a lot of the challenge out of the series with this game and I think it would have been better if people had to work harder for bells and rare items. Getting rare valuable bugs and fish on the island should was game breaking and removed the need for every other bell making method in the game. Animal behavior was too repetitive and should be more like the previous titles or better. Expand
  4. Nov 5, 2013
    10
    I used to own wild world for my 3ds and it bored me after about a month. this game is not like that. there are actually goals in this game and things to do. it never bores you since there are different things to do every day like checking stores(they change stock every day. a new feature I like is the island you can play mini games) I would recommend this game to everyone. I also like howI used to own wild world for my 3ds and it bored me after about a month. this game is not like that. there are actually goals in this game and things to do. it never bores you since there are different things to do every day like checking stores(they change stock every day. a new feature I like is the island you can play mini games) I would recommend this game to everyone. I also like how the game runs on real time so it's not like the stores are open24/7. there's always different events and there are even projects that you can build. you can also renovate the exterior of your home. the graphics and 3d are great and the street pass feature is put to good use. when you street pass with another acnl owner you can view their house and even order stuff from it. overall animal crossing new leaf is an exceptional game, most likely the best I've ever played. this game exceeds all of its predecessors and is a must buy for any 3ds owner. Expand
  5. Nov 7, 2013
    10
    This game is not only much better than the wii, but has also new features. After several months, I go to Wal-Mart and there it is with a $40 price tag under it.
  6. Feb 11, 2014
    9
    I went through the GC and the DS versions, and I was pretty sure I was never going to do it again. In fact, my brother got the Wii version, but I quickly lost interest. However, when I saw that you were now the mayor and ruler of your own city, my curiosity was piqued, and I decided to give Animal Crossing one last go.

    It's nice that they finally changed the initial set up of the
    I went through the GC and the DS versions, and I was pretty sure I was never going to do it again. In fact, my brother got the Wii version, but I quickly lost interest. However, when I saw that you were now the mayor and ruler of your own city, my curiosity was piqued, and I decided to give Animal Crossing one last go.

    It's nice that they finally changed the initial set up of the game. You're starting place, is a tent, and your goal is a mansion. However, throwing in the concept of being town mayor affords you better control of personalizing your town. The graphics are much improved and the 3D allows things to pop. As with any good expansion, there's more of everything to do.

    StreetPass affords some excellent functionality. I love running through people's homes or dream town and laying waste to their city cause I can, knowing there's no consequences. Buying their furniture and seeing the incredible things people can do inspires you to come up with ideas for your own ultimate town.

    However, after awhile, I hit the rut again, and the realization comes that I've played this game twice before. Animal Crossing New Leaf is still essentially the same game. It's just as enjoyable, if not better with all the improvements, but I guess I had imagined that holding the position as mayor could afford me more power. Oh well. It's just sad to know that my town is running destitute with weeds now, and few games hold that attachment for me. I simply wish it would make it easier to pull away and to know my town isn't to falling apart. This game just shows me I have deep commitment issues. Until a few more installments down the road, I bid you adieu ACNL.
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  7. Dec 4, 2013
    10
    This game is by far the best in the series. The mechanics of the game are much better. The controls feel smoother, the gameplay makes perfect sense, and most importantly...it makes you want to keep playing all the time. This game is great for both kids and adults. There is something about the game that just so addicting and you definitely get your money's worth.
  8. Jun 28, 2016
    10
    This game definitely changed the animal crossing series. The changes are something that will probably stay for future games and still to this day I am hoping for another animal crossing game here soon
  9. Dec 21, 2013
    9
    I am willing to give this game a 10 because not only is it extremely relaxing it may look childish but it has hundreds of hours and things to do. I can safely say this game is a game you must buy if you own a 3ds in fact it was the first game I got when I bought it and I have not had doubts about it since. The music is very nice while being relaxing and there is stuff to do every day.
  10. Dec 27, 2013
    10
    I'm addicted to this game. It's cute and funny and there are a infinite possibilities. I have played the other version but New Leaf is 100 times better! I also like the fact that you're in control but not so much as you don't have time to do anything. (Like talk to the animals or earn money.) I also think the animals are friendlier than they were on the previous version. It's an amazingI'm addicted to this game. It's cute and funny and there are a infinite possibilities. I have played the other version but New Leaf is 100 times better! I also like the fact that you're in control but not so much as you don't have time to do anything. (Like talk to the animals or earn money.) I also think the animals are friendlier than they were on the previous version. It's an amazing game and I know that even though I've had it for 2 days because it's so action packed. Expand
  11. Jan 10, 2014
    10
    The best AC by FAR. This is NOT Wild World, or City Folk. NEW LEAF has so much more content, it is ridiculous. I've got 180 hours logged, and new things are still opening up. It may look similar, but, it's FAR superior. Also, the touch screen is a god-send, as is the new ability to bundle fruit into baskets of 9. Grab some friends and visit the Island. It's one of many cool new additions.
  12. Jan 26, 2014
    10
    CONTENT!!
    There is so much to do on this game! The only other one i have played is the original, but i love this one. You can get all your fruits and shells and sell them to get bells to customize your home and do projects as the mayor. If your bored of that, you can go to an island and do fun games with the previous mayor.
    I strongly recommend this game.
  13. May 9, 2014
    9
    They have greatly improved this game since the Animal Crossing Wild World, it's much more complete and fun. You have much more freedom. It's very fun I would recommend buying it. :)
  14. Feb 21, 2014
    9
    This game improves upon the other games in the series in almost every way. You can do so much in this game, there is no way I could say everything you can do in this review. There is an absolute ton of stuff to do in this game. I've been playing for about 90 hours now, and I'm not even halfway done. You are the mayor of a town. You can add new buildings and maintain the town through townThis game improves upon the other games in the series in almost every way. You can do so much in this game, there is no way I could say everything you can do in this review. There is an absolute ton of stuff to do in this game. I've been playing for about 90 hours now, and I'm not even halfway done. You are the mayor of a town. You can add new buildings and maintain the town through town projects and ordinances, trying to get a perfect town rating. There are 60 things you can add in the town, ranging from a cafe to the Sphinx. All of this is new to the series. My only complaint is the villagers have to tell you about 40 town projects (you start out with about 20) before you can build them. That would be fine, if they would just tell you them about 2-4 times a week. Instead, you will be lucky to get 1 in a week. Overall, I think the tiny flaws in this game can easily be overlooked and this game could become one of your most played games ever due to the amount of content in it. Expand
  15. Mar 11, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Jump into a world where you are the mayor of your own town and the littlest of accomplishments make you feel most grand. Meet all of your new villagers with different personality types and still have time to customize your town, house, and clothing in anyway possible.

    This virtual “real-life” game is similar to Sims and Minecraft. Animal Crossing New Leaf (ACNL) has creating, building, and finding your own path; this type of gameplay is popular among many players. If you are a Fable Fan and heard of Harvest Moon this game also has similar elements of gameplay as well. These other games mentioned show that much effort is needed for getting from completing mission “A” to mission “B”. Similar in all these games you control what you are going to do and have an unlimited amount of possibilities. Most Animal Crossing games grab players in like a sharp hook and three weeks later after, you are wondering, “Why am I still playing this game?” Yet, for some odd reason many players are hooked for quite awhile wanting to find the latest discovery and do as much as they can to improve one's town.

    Starting off the game, you are on a train talking to the conductor about your new life in this town (eventually you get to pick the town name). The conductor mentions you are the “freshman mayor” so it is now time to shine and make all the decisions. Unlike other Animal Crossing games before, you are either in a town cab or just randomly show up to a new city. The train setting is much more realistic and gives you a sense of “traveling” to a new city you are basically going to build from scratch.

    This newest and most anticipated feature from this game is becoming a Mayor of your own town. Some of the jobs of mayorship are definitely thrilling and empowering. If you have a type “A” personality and like to take control of all around you, this aspect is great to consider.

    Around your new town and community you can start building “Public Works Projects” which include fountains, benches, light posts, and even playgrounds. You can choose up to 156 “Public Works Projects” after a villager asks for that specific “project” to improve your town.These public works projects do not come all at once because you basically have to “unlock” them like a new level in a game. These “projects” become “special” depending on a villager.

    I found it irksome that most villagers only liked “fancier” projects that cost more to start and finish. Yet, after completing the project(s) there is definitely a sense of accomplishment of wanting to do more. One of the more exciting public work projects is building a campsite for possible new villagers to move; in the game a new “guest-villager” can visit about once a week.

    Other duties of a mayor include enacting an ordinance which simply controls the town in specific ways. Some ordinances include keeping the market and shops open earlier or later, earn money more quickly, or prevent weed overgrowth to keep the town clean and beautiful. I personally liked the ordinance called “Bell Bloom”.

    While mayorship is definitely fun in all aspects; mentioned earlier, ACNL gives you a great satisfaction when completing little tasks. Playing this game everyday might sound crazy but there is always something new to do. The anticipation of finding new fossils in the ground, catching fish, deep sea critters, and bugs to give to the museum is another aspect in itself. Finding the latest bug or fish in the season is another facet to look forward to as well.
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  16. Mar 13, 2014
    6
    Animal Crossing: New Leaf does show some promise, but it can fade away after a while

    Pros: Full of charm The experience can be relaxing Cons: Most parts of the game can be tedious If you are a huge animal crossing fan, try this out, but if you are a newcomer, only play this if its what you strongly desire. It can last a reasonable amount of time, but it may start to fade away
    Animal Crossing: New Leaf does show some promise, but it can fade away after a while

    Pros:
    Full of charm
    The experience can be relaxing

    Cons:
    Most parts of the game can be tedious

    If you are a huge animal crossing fan, try this out, but if you are a newcomer, only play this if its what you strongly desire. It can last a reasonable amount of time, but it may start to fade away after a while
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  17. Mar 23, 2014
    9
    As I am new to the Animal Crossing series I probably haven't got much say in this debate but since I got it at Christmas 2013 I would say it's a must buy for the Nintendo 3DS with it's layed back nature and simplistic objectives it's a very nice game to kick back and relax to. My only complaint is that maybe they could have added more Mini Games other than the Island games and also it'sAs I am new to the Animal Crossing series I probably haven't got much say in this debate but since I got it at Christmas 2013 I would say it's a must buy for the Nintendo 3DS with it's layed back nature and simplistic objectives it's a very nice game to kick back and relax to. My only complaint is that maybe they could have added more Mini Games other than the Island games and also it's VERY addictive living your life just waiting for what wonders in the next day. Expand
  18. Mar 28, 2014
    9
    Before playing New Leaf, the only experience I've had with Animal Crossing was the original on the GameCube and while I enjoyed the original, I was completely blown away from this game. I was addicted to this game since day one, there was lots to do and the game changes as time goes on which is both good and bad in a way. It's good because it gives you things to look forward to, but it wasBefore playing New Leaf, the only experience I've had with Animal Crossing was the original on the GameCube and while I enjoyed the original, I was completely blown away from this game. I was addicted to this game since day one, there was lots to do and the game changes as time goes on which is both good and bad in a way. It's good because it gives you things to look forward to, but it was also bad for me mainly because I would get a bit impatient to see what happens next to the point of where I would start playing early in the morning. But there was plenty of activity to do and I would strongly recommend this game to anyone who has a Nintendo 3ds or 2ds. If you are only going to buy one animal crossing game, then let it be Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Expand
  19. Apr 6, 2014
    8
    So, I start the game on a train with a guy trying to interrogate me in order to let the game figure out how things should be set up at the start. Ok, nothing too weird there, but then I get off the train and everybody tells me I am their mayor now and will not take no for an answer. Even better, they are all furries so I am apparently in the wrong world. Why did it have to beSo, I start the game on a train with a guy trying to interrogate me in order to let the game figure out how things should be set up at the start. Ok, nothing too weird there, but then I get off the train and everybody tells me I am their mayor now and will not take no for an answer. Even better, they are all furries so I am apparently in the wrong world. Why did it have to be furries?...I keep telling them I never agreed to this but they acted like they can not understand me and begged me to lead them so I eventually said Sod It and went to some tree planting ceremony to take the role as mayor after all. I am told I need to scrounge up $10000 for a down payment on a house by pawning off whatever I find laying around the area to stores that make a good living off our hard work harnessing the natural resources of this area and this is the only way the unemployed majority are allowed to make money, I keep being told to do a bunch of mundane things at the mayor's office at first and then finally after a couple of days and receiving a letter saying "I am too busy doing things so you are the new mayor now -Keep it a secret" the secretary gets around to telling me I actually have duties, the people have a very low opinion of me, people think the town sucks and I have to earn the approval of people while pawning off random stuff to try to save the money for the home down payment. I also am immediately told the area is not green enough. The area is a forest with a few cottages for crissakes, how can it get any greener than that? And it gets weirder from there. A duck said "Fishing for ducks? You are gonna need some exquisite bait" (was that a penis reference?), an obviously male reptilian asked me to give him a makeup kit (wtf?) and a flower suddenly gave birth to another fully grown flower with a plopping sound (which I assume is anatomically impossible), then I find out nobody maintains the area and I am expected to water small plants and do the weeding on top of everything else. Boy, if this were real life I would be getting the hell out of town.

    Hilarious review aside, this is a good sandbox game and the occasional weirdness that can occur only adds to it.. You can follow recommendations or set your own goals, it starts out ok but as time goes on and you interact with characters and meet certain conditions more things to see and do become available and you can eventually make the town your own. According to what I read there are also seasonal events and after you reach a certain criteria a few dozen mini games become available for you to enjoy. This game is definitely worth getting if you are a fan of the Animal Crossing series.
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  20. Jun 6, 2014
    8
    First Animal Crossing I played, I'd really give this a 7.5 because I can't decide between a 7 or an 8. Game was pretty fun, but I did not find it as addicting as everyone claims. It was fun for a week or two, then it just got a little more like a hassle with no real direction and dull.
  21. Oct 22, 2014
    10
    It is my first Animal Crossing game and it's absolutely fantastic :-) It's like a "free to play" game, without the micro-transactions, really charming and heartwarming. You decide on how much you want to spend with the game, but I already scored over 70 hours in around a month, there's always something to do: take care of fruit trees, plant and water flowers, collect shells, visit otherIt is my first Animal Crossing game and it's absolutely fantastic :-) It's like a "free to play" game, without the micro-transactions, really charming and heartwarming. You decide on how much you want to spend with the game, but I already scored over 70 hours in around a month, there's always something to do: take care of fruit trees, plant and water flowers, collect shells, visit other gamers, have mini parties with your villagers, who are cute and silly and funny. It's a great game to play when you don't want to save the world another time, or you just want to do something positive, since you can never loose in this game, every villager tells you how awesome you are, and in general this game makes you feel great about life and yourself. Expand
  22. Jul 6, 2014
    10
    This game is the gateway to your new life, and what a great life it is! This insanely addicting game is well worth any price you can find for it. This was my first version and I was still immediately sucked into the charm of my villagers even when I didn't know what to do. This is one of the few video games I can think of where I always smile or laugh at all the witty banter and puns thatThis game is the gateway to your new life, and what a great life it is! This insanely addicting game is well worth any price you can find for it. This was my first version and I was still immediately sucked into the charm of my villagers even when I didn't know what to do. This is one of the few video games I can think of where I always smile or laugh at all the witty banter and puns that they can come up with. This game has a completely INSANE amount of content, and is meant to be digested in little bursts daily, unlike others where you would want to spree for a week or two. Probably what I most like about New Leaf though is how it never ends, I got my copy for Christmas and I never want to stop playing. Another win for New Leaf is how it makes you care about all your villagers. Whenever I accidentally forgot about meeting them I felt bad for them and wanted to do something to make them feel better. I cannot recommend this game enough, it is a 3ds must have, and you won't regret picking it up. Expand
  23. Aug 23, 2014
    8
    This game is fun you should pick it up for your 3DS 2DS or 3DS XL. Teh game starts up with u choosing the name for your town and when u enter your town and there are randomly picked people in teh town.
  24. Sep 18, 2014
    10
    This is one of my favourite games on my 3ds and I love it! Everything is perfect and it has a very cute charm to it! If your new to ACNL and love to customize things then this is a perfect game for you!
  25. Nov 12, 2014
    9
    Animal Crossing is an example of a simple game that is simply enjoyable. The art style is quaint, bright and cheerful. The characters are fun and memorable. It is truely a quintessential Nintendo game and displays the creativity and uniqeness that Nintendo brings to the gaming industry. Yes, the game can be a bit slow and is not too enjoyable to play for hours at a time. However, for howAnimal Crossing is an example of a simple game that is simply enjoyable. The art style is quaint, bright and cheerful. The characters are fun and memorable. It is truely a quintessential Nintendo game and displays the creativity and uniqeness that Nintendo brings to the gaming industry. Yes, the game can be a bit slow and is not too enjoyable to play for hours at a time. However, for how simply the game is--it is quietly dynamic. Every day brings something new and fun to do. Every week brings a new surprise (like a lost sailor, an art dealer selling potential conterfits, a DJ, and more). Even every month can potentially bring a new surprise with new animals moving into your town, a holiday or a specifical event. Again, this game possess a quiet dynamism coupled with a cheerful art scheme and charming characters and charming activities to partake in. Enjoy. Expand
  26. Nov 17, 2014
    9
    Now that I reflect on how much time I spent on this game, I'm surprised I haven't gotten all the badges yet. Besides that, I love this game! I have played less lately but I enjoyed the phase I had being addicted to this game. I will still cherish the time some random stranger at that island gave me a million bells. I highly recommend this game and who knows, you might just be as lucky as me!
  27. Apr 21, 2015
    10
    This is such an addictive game, I bought several games since getting this & I just can't put this 1 down such a relaxing care free game if this is your type of game you won't be disappointed with this one
  28. Nov 30, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the most beautiful 3DS games I have seen, by far. The game is such an immense improvement to previous games, even City Folk, (Which was incredibly well done, I believe.) In this game, there is the opportunity to design the town yourself, as the mayor.
    As in City Folk, there is an area to shop separate from the town, but not as built up; The shops are unlocked and upgraded as certain requirements are met.
    The characters are more realistic now, the presence of a neck, and longer limbs is welcoming, the look of characters in previous games seems comical now. However, the greatest addition to the game is, by far, The Island. The tropical island allows a person to catch more insects and fish, regardless of the date in their home town, and, go on tours, and collect furniture and clothes. When a certain pass, to Club Tortimer is purchased, a player has the ability to visit the Island with people across the world, or simply in their own country.
    A truly fantastic, beautiful game, that is well worth the price. However, there aren't events everyday, so boredom may occur. Therefore, the date and time setting at the loading screen allow a person to time travel, perhaps to a day where there is an event, (Say, Christmas or Thanksgiving) and continue the fun then.
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  29. Dec 7, 2014
    10
    This game is great! It's really improved itself from its Wii and DS counterparts. This game is vibrant and fun, and also quite relaxing. The addition to the new characters are wonderful, and also the addition of the House Renovation shop and the island. The whole game just leaves you feeling at peace, and it's just such a nice addition to the Animal Crossing series. I can't wait to seeThis game is great! It's really improved itself from its Wii and DS counterparts. This game is vibrant and fun, and also quite relaxing. The addition to the new characters are wonderful, and also the addition of the House Renovation shop and the island. The whole game just leaves you feeling at peace, and it's just such a nice addition to the Animal Crossing series. I can't wait to see what they do next. Expand
  30. Jan 3, 2015
    9
    this was my first AC game so i did not expect much i got it day one little did i know it was probably one of the best 3ds hits of all time your a mayor of a town the towns name you decide (i named mine hyrule) when you get off the train you decide where you wanna build your house er a tent but with patience it will become a lot better when you start off theres one shop in town going tothis was my first AC game so i did not expect much i got it day one little did i know it was probably one of the best 3ds hits of all time your a mayor of a town the towns name you decide (i named mine hyrule) when you get off the train you decide where you wanna build your house er a tent but with patience it will become a lot better when you start off theres one shop in town going to the shopping district theres only a few places to go like the bank the museum and 2 other shops but there will be more like Kicks run by...kicks a flower shop the t&t shop will expand and club lol and more later you'll see the original mayor who gives you boat rides for 1,000 bells theres multiplayer and even EASTER EGGS! Expand
Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 70 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 64 out of 70
  2. Negative: 0 out of 70
  1. Pelit (Finland)
    Oct 7, 2013
    91
    Animal Crossing: New Leaf is excellent for meditation, coffee breaks, grinding, goofing around, self-expression and, naturally, having loads of fun. [Aug 2013]
  2. Sep 10, 2013
    70
    It is not too shabby to be a major. Animal Crossing New Leaf continues the series tradition of being as charming as it is relaxing. The repetitive nature of the tasks in the game has an allure that somehow never gets old. Fans will of course feel right at home and welcome the occasional tweaks and news the game has to offer. It’s just too bad that New Leaf while being a game with lots of content still offers very few surprises.
  3. Aug 26, 2013
    100
    Animal Crossing: New Leaf represents not only the pinnacle of the series, but also the ingenuity of the life simulation genre.