Animal Crossing: New Leaf

 3DS
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 920 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 799 out of 920
  2. Mixed: 76 out of 920
  3. Negative: 45 out of 920
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  1. danielneves
    Jul 20, 2013
    10
    I have tried Wii and Nintendo DS' games but none of them captured me. I saw lots of trailers and critics and them I decided to buy.

    The game is SO GREAT, it has lots of content and so many things to do! It's very refined with great graphics and rich soundtrack. The game has lots of ways to connect with friends through online visits real time in your city, local and also streetpass. They    I have tried Wii and Nintendo DS' games but none of them captured me. I saw lots of trailers and critics and them I decided to buy.

    The game is SO GREAT, it has lots of content and so many things to do! It's very refined with great graphics and rich soundtrack. The game has lots of ways to connect with friends through online visits real time in your city, local and also streetpass. They enabled a chat to talk to friends in diferents cities. I have never spent so many time playing a game as I'm doing with Animal Crossing New Leaf.    … Expand
  2. Poisonthemonkey
    Jun 13, 2013
    10
    My first Animal Crossing game...and I'm hooked. I'm not usually into games of this type, but I gave it a try because a lot of folks at my office play it and it has multiplayer. The multiplayer on this game is top-notch, for the kind of game it is--nothing like taking a boat ride with three of your friends and running off to go diving, fishing, and scavenger hunting together.
  3. monster_meal
    Jun 24, 2013
    10
    Thank you Nintendo. I have been so in to Animal Crossing for years. I was very disappointed when "City Folk" ended up being a pretty straightforward port of the DS game. Finally we have a true successor to the Animal Crossing game. Whereas I found myself running out of things to do in the old games, I now have all sorts of things to keep me busy. New furniture, better AI dialogue, allThank you Nintendo. I have been so in to Animal Crossing for years. I was very disappointed when "City Folk" ended up being a pretty straightforward port of the DS game. Finally we have a true successor to the Animal Crossing game. Whereas I found myself running out of things to do in the old games, I now have all sorts of things to keep me busy. New furniture, better AI dialogue, all kinds of new features, and a more fleshed out multiplayer offering. All this, and Streetpass has finally given you a way to see what complete strangers are doing with their town. I love it.… Expand
  4. Chaiyoshnay
    Aug 12, 2013
    10
    I have been playing video games all of my life. Every once in a while a game comes along that consumes me. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is one of the best video game experiences you will ever have if you are willing to explore it's hidden depth. It's a well known fact that this game is a little difficult to describe in terms of what makes it so fantastic, so I thought I would try to describeI have been playing video games all of my life. Every once in a while a game comes along that consumes me. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is one of the best video game experiences you will ever have if you are willing to explore it's hidden depth. It's a well known fact that this game is a little difficult to describe in terms of what makes it so fantastic, so I thought I would try to describe it a little differently than most people in the hope of attracting more people to this wonderful game.

    Running my town as Mayor to me is similar to running a business, without ever worrying about failing. You have to work hard for your money and spend it creatively on your town. Earning money in this game is addicting in the way mining is in Mine Craft or Terraria. It's addicting in the way leveling up in an RPG can be. Before you know it, you will be compelled to earn big money on those evenings on the island, catching rare bugs. The compulsion to earn money is insane. Who would have guessed that Fishing and Bug catching could be so addictive?

    Every town will look different and expressing your style and wealth is one of the most satisfying aspects to a game that I have ever had. Your town will continue to evolve, and more and more building options and public work projects become available. Each of the buildings and their upgrades adds new facets to your virtual life. From the incredible amount of customizations to your house, to the insane amount of items, to the equally insane amount of quirky wardrobes; each aesthetic choice can be reflection of your own creativity or you can simply use the themes readily available if you are not feeling creative. I built a movie theater in my house, with surround sound speakers, arcades, candy machines and one of those crane machines you find at any theater. It is my pride and joy. I built a park in my town and it's beautiful.

    It's one of those games that I think about as soon as I wake up. What's for sale at all of the numerous stores on main street? What events are taking place? What's happening in my virtual alternate life?There is always something happening in your town. Females beware, this game was definitely designed to appeal to your inner shopper. Yes, there is a shoe store and it's inventory changes daily as with all of the stores.

    In a day when almost all of the major game announcements involve guns and violence, Animal Crossing: New Leaf is the diametric opposite of those experiences. It's a laid back and incredibly relaxing game. Take it at your own pace, and just chill out. Sometimes I watch TV, while playing Animal Crossing, and that is one of my favorite things to do now. I have put over 150 hours into the game since launch and I imagine I will put two thousand in by the time it is all said and done. If this appeals to you in any way, go out and buy this game. The social features are fantastic, and the community is very helpful. If you do not have a 3DS, it's about time you bought one. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is Nintendo's new killer app.    … Expand
  5. EFYevan
    Jun 9, 2013
    10
    Much different than the previous DS version I popped in the old game today to see the difference, and "Animal Crossing: New Leaf" is so much smoother and better in every way! The whole game seems happier and Nintendo really listened to its fans. It may sound silly, but being able to sell all your items at once or have the owl appraise all your items at once saves a ton of time and is soMuch different than the previous DS version I popped in the old game today to see the difference, and "Animal Crossing: New Leaf" is so much smoother and better in every way! The whole game seems happier and Nintendo really listened to its fans. It may sound silly, but being able to sell all your items at once or have the owl appraise all your items at once saves a ton of time and is so convenient! No game is perfect, but this is so close! 9.9/10… Expand
  6. Rxbadass25
    Jun 15, 2013
    10
    I've been a fan of the AC series since the days of the Gamecube and let me say: New Leaf is by far the best in the series!

    First of all, I am a firm believer that this game was never truly intended for the main Nintendo consoles; it had "handheld" written all over it since the first installment. This game is the most organic-feeling of the lot and the online play is fantastic. I love    I've been a fan of the AC series since the days of the Gamecube and let me say: New Leaf is by far the best in the series!

    First of all, I am a firm believer that this game was never truly intended for the main Nintendo consoles; it had "handheld" written all over it since the first installment. This game is the most organic-feeling of the lot and the online play is fantastic.

    I love how the game is able to stay pretty much the same as it always has been yet is able to add one small thing to the mix and instantly there's hours upon hours of added game play that in no way feels tacked on. For example, the addition of the wetsuit, being the mayor, the addition of pants and shoes, and the tropical getaway are all great/entertaining additions to the game that make it feel like an even bigger world than it already is and makes the game even more addicting.

    If you're on the fence about getting this game, don't be. The 3DS has been coming on strong within the last year and this title has just solidified its victory against the Vita. TEHNOUTTATEHN!    … Expand
  7. Svampriket_se
    Jul 10, 2013
    10
    What can I say, it's the best game of the year so far. And unless something comes straight from left field and surprises me, it will stay the best game of the year. It's almost impossible to describe this game, and I'm not even entirely sure if it's to be called a game. But there's so much to do, and the reward system is so devilish paced that you get hooked at once. Combined with a cuteWhat can I say, it's the best game of the year so far. And unless something comes straight from left field and surprises me, it will stay the best game of the year. It's almost impossible to describe this game, and I'm not even entirely sure if it's to be called a game. But there's so much to do, and the reward system is so devilish paced that you get hooked at once. Combined with a cute and cosy feel, it's a game I've played every day since release, and will continue to do so for several months to come.… Expand
  8. Starhowl
    Jul 5, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I am completely new to the Animal Crossing series. Up until this game, I had no prior knowledge of this series or what to expect when getting New Leaf. All I knew was that it was a life simulator with cute animal people in it.

    I ended up getting far more than I could have ever imagined. Your town and your people are ALIVE, make no mistake. This game is packed with little details and small charms all over the place that will make anyone new to the series say "Wow, really? I wonder what else will happen..."

    Your villagers are intelligent, they know what goes on around them and will comment on it. Your town grows over time, day by day, very slowly. Relationships develop, buildings rise, seasons change and villagers move in and out. There are over 300 possible citizens for your village, and you can only have 10 at a time. This is a painful kind of potential where you want to see as much as you can, but you'll only get there with time.

    It's much more than a slice-of-life simulator. It's literally another life, all to yourself, where you're in charge and these little animal people look up to you to make their town the best in the world. After a week, you may find yourself getting a deep-seated feeling for your little town and it's people, smiling at some of the things they say and hopefully getting a little chuckle out of it sometimes too.

    Daily routines are common, but somehow not repetitive or boring. There's plenty of options for things to do if something doesn't suit your mood that day, or you can just do nothing at all! This game has literally no obligations tied to it, and it makes for a very therapeutic sort of relaxation game. Go fishing. Plant some trees, water some flowers. Or just gaze at the stars.

    The possibilities are endless, and no two people will ever have the exact same town.

    I don't think I could have picked a better time to dive into the Animal Crossing series. $40 well spent; I'll be playing this game for years to come.    … Expand
  9. Autosaver
    Jun 9, 2013
    10
    Animal Crossing has gone a long way since the original game. While previous entries have not made any evolutionary turns, this one surely has. The 3DS game is the one that beats them all. Missing out on this game is a great mistake. This is a must have for all 3DS owners.
  10. Exca
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    This is the reason of my 3ds purchase this game is so addictive .
    The world keep "living" even when you are not playing and that is the reason of your desire to play to see what is happening
  11. NintendoJeroen
    Jun 13, 2013
    10
    This game is truly innovating and worth it's every penny. I never imagined a new game in the series to be equal to Wild World but this game has proven my wrong.
  12. setz
    Jun 9, 2013
    10
    Finally an AC to dethrone the Gamecube version. This game is so full of charm and makes me constantly smile and laugh. There is no other series I can pick up and play literally ever day for months.
  13. EvilShadowX11
    Jun 12, 2013
    10
    So much is the same for the old game, but there are so much more things that are new that make this Animal Crossing so much better than the previous entries in the series. So many more interactions with the townspeople, the island, the stores, everything is just 100X better than the old games.
  14. firecloud42
    Jun 17, 2013
    10
    This is the OF THE YEAR

    So I haven't played an Animal Crossing game since GameCube, not because I don't like the series more that I didn't have a Wii till Skyward Sword and by that time I had a lot of catching up to do with Nintendo Wii titles. The controls are well done and feels the same as the GameCube (don't fix it if it's not broken). The Graphics are great, the detail of the    This is the OF THE YEAR

    So I haven't played an Animal Crossing game since GameCube, not because I don't like the series more that I didn't have a Wii till Skyward Sword and by that time I had a lot of catching up to do with Nintendo Wii titles.

    The controls are well done and feels the same as the GameCube (don't fix it if it's not broken). The Graphics are great, the detail of the bugs, fish, and squids are awesome. the story is good (you know the classic tail of becoming the mayor and turning into a Tyrant...um I mean struggling on becoming a great Mayor). the Music is AWESOME, K. K. Strider is a Legend, and the background music makes great atmosphere and can change the mood of the game. And the characters are so well made that you will fall in love (platonicly..well I guess I can only speak for my self there) or grow to hate...Darn you Tom Nook, I'm done with being in debt with you.

    I give it a 1000/10 score and if you're like me and haven't touched an Animal Crossing game in awhile or haven't at all then New Leaf is a great to get back into or start with

    what? I'm not a fan boy     … Expand
  15. murdock6
    Jul 17, 2014
    10
    Just a simple, relaxing video game that will definitely keep you entertained for hours on end. A game that is meant to be enjoyed at your own pace. The best feature of this game of course is the massive amount of customization involved. You truly feel as though you are creating a town that you are personally invested in.
  16. KCritic
    Apr 3, 2014
    10
    My girlfriend played this game, and I wasn't so sold on it. Though, as I watched her play it wasn't long until I fell in love with its charming world, characters, music and gameplay. New Leaf is a truly unique game which I not only now own myself, but have sunk almost 200 hours into. One of the most addictive games ever, be warned.
  17. Nostalgic9tails
    Jul 7, 2013
    10
    A beautiful addition to a wonderful franchise that has meant so much to me since 2002. This was the first time since the GameCube version that I felt the wonder of having a town and so much to do in it. It brings elements of the past 3 releases and adds several more. And this is one instance that the 3D actually improves the experience. Definitely a must buy for anyone with a 3DS or areA beautiful addition to a wonderful franchise that has meant so much to me since 2002. This was the first time since the GameCube version that I felt the wonder of having a town and so much to do in it. It brings elements of the past 3 releases and adds several more. And this is one instance that the 3D actually improves the experience. Definitely a must buy for anyone with a 3DS or are fans of the series in general. You will not be disappointed, except perhaps by the many sea bass you'll catch.… Expand
  18. KillaRiku
    Jun 11, 2013
    10
    Since I bought this game, I've been playing this like I'm addicted. It is the best Animal Crossing. If you liked the GC Version, the NDS Version or the Wii Version, then you will love this game like it's you're own child.
    Play it! Love it!
  19. DynamikReviews
    Jul 8, 2013
    10
    This is my favorite game for the 3ds i have never played a game as addictive and fun as animal crossing the characters are interesting and always have something silly to say. The ways in which tou can upgrade and decorate your house are amazing the possibility's are endless! Plus the game never ends so you will have fun for days to come!
  20. Footballpires
    Jun 13, 2013
    10
    Absolutley magnificent! I've really enjoyed this game so far, it's so relaxing and fun at the same time, very pretty visuals and a lot of charm! A lot of things to do and the new online modes are very intresting.
  21. 46joey_b
    Jun 9, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. With its vivid presentation, loveable characters and health-hazard inflicting addictive gameplay, Animal Crossing: New Leaf is a game that oozes charm, detail and devotion. It's a game that, for Western countries, has been 3 years in the making, but it's been more than worth the wait. Animal Crossing: New Leaf may be criticised by other reviewers for its gameplay that sticks to the previous titles, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it! Make no mistake, this is the most polished and refined Animal Crossing experience to date, and it does a lot of new stuff that goes hand-in-hand with the core mechanics that are the game's main attraction to make this new title a truly fresh and captivating experience.

    New Leaf should be a template to the game's creators for years to come, and until the next title, New Leaf will dominate the Activity Log of any 3DS owner. 9.7/10.    … Expand
  22. FalloutShadow
    Jun 10, 2013
    10
    If your veteran or new to animal crossing then this game is a must to be in your 3DS library. This game adds enough new fresh stuff like being mayor and such for people
    Who are new to animal crossing, and people who loved the previous animal crossing will love this one. Best animal Crossing to date.
  23. rowazra
    Jun 11, 2013
    10
    This game strikes a perfect balance between the classic freefrom feeling of Animal Crossing with new goals and structures. There is a never a dull moment in this game from the classic hobbies we all know and love to new mayoral duties. New music and new graphics give this game a real boost and brilliance. The game also nails it on the small touches that are so charming and enjoyableThis game strikes a perfect balance between the classic freefrom feeling of Animal Crossing with new goals and structures. There is a never a dull moment in this game from the classic hobbies we all know and love to new mayoral duties. New music and new graphics give this game a real boost and brilliance. The game also nails it on the small touches that are so charming and enjoyable they're impossible to adore. They streamlined the game as well, fixing everything that might have bugged you before. The game lets you know when you catch a new fish, let's you do basically everything in bulk, and also gives you a place to sell your things in the village. The animal scripts for the game are so amazing and diverse you wouldn't notice they weren't real unless you hounded the animals to death. They are so much more aware and lively in every way. When I say the game strikes a perfect balance it really does, between structure and freedom, work and play, city and village, familiar and new, this game is exactly what fans have been asking for and is sure to capture the attention and devotion of new players!… Expand
  24. Dastrados
    Jun 14, 2013
    10
    A game u will keep coming back to months after you buy. Every 3ds owner should get this game. Play it for 1-2 hours at time. This isnt monster hunter where u grind for 5 hours. Its meant to be played gracefully.
  25. SaltyNoodles
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    I absolutely adore this game. This game is most likely not for you if you don't enjoy games with a slow pace and not that many specific goals, but I felt that way too and I've ended up adoring this game. The first day or so that I played Animal Crossing, I was really not into it, I wasn't used to a game that had such a slow pace, but it's grown on me, and I find that there is more to doI absolutely adore this game. This game is most likely not for you if you don't enjoy games with a slow pace and not that many specific goals, but I felt that way too and I've ended up adoring this game. The first day or so that I played Animal Crossing, I was really not into it, I wasn't used to a game that had such a slow pace, but it's grown on me, and I find that there is more to do the more I play. It's honestly really good for someone like me, I don't have very many friends, but it's been very heartwarming to have animal friends in my game. I have heard that Animal Crossing was originally started as a way to cope with loneliness, and I think it does it's job well. There are also many silly and fun things to discover within the game, creative outlets, and building aspects, that make the game very relaxing and rewarding.… Expand
  26. WoodenToaster
    Jun 25, 2013
    10
    Pretty much a perfect, relaxing and charming handheld adventure for all ages I had a lot of fun with this installment
  27. ORCSandDRAGONS
    Jul 2, 2013
    10
    This being my first Animal Crossing experience I had no idea what I was in for. The game is a true gaming gem in this current generation. I never feel cheated or as if this game is being unfair. I have yet to come across one thing that is sub par. Animal Crossing let's you experience an entire living world on your 3DS. New residents move in and on a daily basis items in stores change. YouThis being my first Animal Crossing experience I had no idea what I was in for. The game is a true gaming gem in this current generation. I never feel cheated or as if this game is being unfair. I have yet to come across one thing that is sub par. Animal Crossing let's you experience an entire living world on your 3DS. New residents move in and on a daily basis items in stores change. You can chose to play it and accomplish quite a bit in a hurried fashion (even go so far to change the clock in the game to speed along some processes), or you can chose to play day by day like a daily ritual. It's a game that anyone can get something out of. I am obsessed. Great job Nintendo!!!… Expand
  28. jeff_reviews
    Jul 4, 2013
    10
    So addicting that I am constantly changing the time on my 3DS in order to get what I want in the game. Overall, Animal Crossing: New Life is just fun and wonderful to play when bored.
  29. PurplesGameRoom
    Sep 1, 2013
    10
    Really fun game. I just can't stop playing it. The only other game in the series I've played before New Leaf is Wild World,but still,I think this is the best game in the series. I play with my sister and my best friend almost every day. It's really worth money and I think even anyone who doesn't really like video games will like it. 10/10.
  30. pocky
    Jul 13, 2013
    10
    A fantastic slice of life game that you can dip into a little every day for months. Great characters and charm, the music is fantastic and the customization is great, if albeit hid behind unlocking. Only criticism is that you can only store 10 designs on your character, but you can make an alt to get more so it's not that big of a problem.
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best 3DS Game of 2013
4
#4 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2013
4
#4 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 70 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 64 out of 70
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 70
  3. 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. Level7.nu
    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.
    Read full review
  3. Universo Nintendo
    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.
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