User Score
5.6

Mixed or average reviews- based on 6617 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. Dec 12, 2020
    7
    So I previously had a very positive review here. I really enjoyed the first week of the game and it is still pretty good. However, the more you'll play the more basic and uninteresting everything becomes. Characters have not a lot of things to say and they'll even repeat the same line for a few days in a row. To be honest it makes the game feel generic and while the in other games theSo I previously had a very positive review here. I really enjoyed the first week of the game and it is still pretty good. However, the more you'll play the more basic and uninteresting everything becomes. Characters have not a lot of things to say and they'll even repeat the same line for a few days in a row. To be honest it makes the game feel generic and while the in other games the villagers felt like real people, hre it feels like they are just basic NPCs. For me, this was my favorite part of New Leaf so that is why I edited this one. If you only buy this for the building part. Then buy it. It does that part very well, but if you want an Animal Crossing game with villagers that feel alive. I suggest you buy any of the other games. Expand
  2. Apr 2, 2020
    9
    It's a great game despite its flaws... The attention to detail, the music and the overall presentation is great, as are most of the gameplay mechanics. If you want two islands on the same switch, don't buy it. If you want a chilled out life SIM then there's nothing else that comes close to it on the Switch.
  3. Apr 27, 2020
    10
    Tengo que admitir que es un juego adictivo, nunca había jugado animal crossing, pero si juegos parecidos, y la verdad me encanta, el estilo visual si no es el mejor pero a la vista de verdad te encanta, la manera en que funciona estoy pegado a el todos los días, es un juegazo para los que les gusta este genero lo recomiendo
  4. Apr 27, 2020
    8
    Honestly, I'm not qualified to review this game as I never do this. It is true 1 island per console is really disappointing but not surprising from nintendo. I have never played AC before this game, and I used to hate on this game but now that I've played it, I can't stop. This game doesn't deserve the hate it's getting. It's a great, fun and addicting game anyone can play and have fun with.
  5. Apr 1, 2020
    10
    Such a wonderful game, I don’t play animal crossing for the multiplayer, my wife and I have our own switches and have tons of fun visiting each other’s islands and trading different things we’ve found for each other. I highly recommend this game, don’t trust the salty reviews.
  6. Apr 3, 2020
    8
    "I can't read and/or am uninformed, better review-bomb a game and give it a 0, regardless of actual experience with gameplay" -average ACNH reviewer.

    To get this out of the way: Yes, one island per device is frustrating, but we knew this and this has been the case for every animal crossing game. This information was announced by Nintendo, has been covered in the media and is explicitly
    "I can't read and/or am uninformed, better review-bomb a game and give it a 0, regardless of actual experience with gameplay" -average ACNH reviewer.

    To get this out of the way: Yes, one island per device is frustrating, but we knew this and this has been the case for every animal crossing game. This information was announced by Nintendo, has been covered in the media and is explicitly mentioned in the Nintendo E-shop and on the box for physical copies. Review-bombing a game out of ignorance is rather pathetic and it's sad to see such an extremely misleading user score, which hardly reflects the game, merely the frustration of angry fans that didn't bother to read or inform themselves.

    As for the actual game, it's hardly a secret at this point that it's a stellar game. Arguably one of the best life simulators and in terms of visuals, gameplay and overall feel, absolutely an upgrade over older games. It's a fantastic experience, a perfect game to just relax with and, unless you're a so-called "time traveler", a game that will last you for years to come due to absolute tons of customization and options not present in earlier titles.

    However, not all is perfect and there are a few points of critique I have, mostly when comparing to older games, most of which boil down to missing content. Nintendo's approach to this game is to periodically add updates including new content, which is exciting, but creates uncertainty. Stuff like swimming, the cafe, club LOL, the dream suite etc. all seem to be missing from the game and while obviously not a necessity, I believe many fans would like to see their return or at least an equivalent substitute for some of the features unlocked by some of these facilities. These may be added in future updates, seeing how datamines include placeholders for a museum cafe and even gyroids, but what else will be added remains to be seen.

    In general, the game is absolutely solid and feels more accessible than ever, as well as being released during a lockdown, assuring tons of hours of fun during these boring times. Everyone can enjoy it- (as long as they each have their own Switch...) and is a top recommendation for any Switch owner. Strong 8-9 from me, depending on future content to be added.
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  7. Mar 26, 2020
    10
    Only reviewing this now because I have not stopped playing this game. I will be playing this for YEARS. Im actually having more fun with this game then I did Pokemon and I played Pokemon A LOT. Not full of action like Astral Chain or Bayonetta but wow, it's just always brings a smile to my face to wake up every morning, explore my island, catch bugs, fish, gather, talk to villagers, visitOnly reviewing this now because I have not stopped playing this game. I will be playing this for YEARS. Im actually having more fun with this game then I did Pokemon and I played Pokemon A LOT. Not full of action like Astral Chain or Bayonetta but wow, it's just always brings a smile to my face to wake up every morning, explore my island, catch bugs, fish, gather, talk to villagers, visit friends online, etc. So much fun and perfect for quarantine time. Definitely get this if you have Switch. Expand
  8. Apr 28, 2020
    10
    Oi stop **** review bombing the **** game you dumbasses haven't even played it yet
  9. Apr 14, 2020
    10
    I've never played an Animal Crossing before and I can't stop playing it now! Amazing! there are lots of things to do! The characters are all charming, you can visit other islands, customize everything...It's a infinit game. People who are giving 0 problably never played the game. And a 0 ?? come on guys, not everybody will like it but a 0?
  10. Apr 3, 2020
    10
    The game is amazing! Everyone rating the game a 0-4 because they can’t have multiple users isn’t fair! Get off here! And cry somewhere else. What’s the big deal? This was explained before the game was released so why did you buy it? You just wanna whine. Simple solution buy a switch lite for family member or get gone. The game is unbelievable good and adorable!
  11. Apr 2, 2020
    10
    Game of all type of people. I'm 34 and can't stop playing this game. A lot of enjoy!
  12. Mar 29, 2020
    8
    Adore this game, cannot put it down. However can be frustrating because it can be incredibly slow, especially at the start. Also the one island per console is dumb. But I still love it!
  13. Jun 21, 2020
    0
    They cut Everything out of the Game, all past shops, features, many of the house upgrades, the original Animal Crossing you could have 15 villagers, here only 10. The Islands feel small and cramped, villagers don't really do side quests any more,no Diving, no Multiplayer mini games, All users on a single consoleMust share the same tiny island. Less plants, Only two shops I'm the game withThey cut Everything out of the Game, all past shops, features, many of the house upgrades, the original Animal Crossing you could have 15 villagers, here only 10. The Islands feel small and cramped, villagers don't really do side quests any more,no Diving, no Multiplayer mini games, All users on a single consoleMust share the same tiny island. Less plants, Only two shops I'm the game with Books Cranny only having one upgrade, the Island editor is slow and limited, custom paths can still be kicked off the ground, no daily or monthly events, loading times that shouldn't exist. Besides Graphics this is the worst entry in the series. I could go on even more if I wanted. Expand
  14. Mar 26, 2020
    10
    Absolutely incredible game that not only makes me feel a little less lonely, but also allow me to have genuine interactions, going back and forth between islands and helping each other out, with my best friend, who is two continents over, in these scary times. It's an incredible game and I have been adoring every second of it. It's a polished, smooth experience and it's pretty darned closeAbsolutely incredible game that not only makes me feel a little less lonely, but also allow me to have genuine interactions, going back and forth between islands and helping each other out, with my best friend, who is two continents over, in these scary times. It's an incredible game and I have been adoring every second of it. It's a polished, smooth experience and it's pretty darned close to perfect! Expand
  15. Mar 25, 2020
    9
    **** piece of **** stupid **** one island mechanic. You can only have one Island at a time, and the second player gets to do nothing. **** you Nintendo.

    9/10
  16. Mar 24, 2020
    9
    This is a great relaxing game. I love it. It is the perfect game to play while listening to podcasts or watching TV with family. I could see why it would be frustrating if you were playing with someone else on the same console though- which is why I took off a point.
  17. Mar 25, 2020
    9
    Where do I even begin with this game? Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the first Animal Crossing title I have ever played and I am loving every bit of it. I used to be one to shy away from the series because I felt it wasn't a game for me, but boy was I wrong. Everything about the game is exciting and there's so much to do every new day you boot the game up. You start the game off as aWhere do I even begin with this game? Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the first Animal Crossing title I have ever played and I am loving every bit of it. I used to be one to shy away from the series because I felt it wasn't a game for me, but boy was I wrong. Everything about the game is exciting and there's so much to do every new day you boot the game up. You start the game off as a Villager brought to a deserted island with Tom Nook and a couple other of animal villagers. Right off the bat, you're assigned with tasks to keep you busy for the rest of the day. From fishing, catching bugs, gathering materials, crafting items, and expanding the village, there's a lot to do on such a little island. This game couldn't have come out at a better time especially due to the current state of affairs, but it is a game that has had me occupied since the day it came out! Visiting other friends' islands is just as fun and it's really unexplainable how great this game is. It's truly an experience everyone should enjoy. Expand
  18. Mar 24, 2020
    10
    The game is absolutely fantastic and everything we have been waiting for for seven long years. The ability to truly customize your island and all of the quality of life upgrade make this game so very worth the money. It’s a slow relaxing game that any fan of past Animal Crossing games would love.
  19. Mar 24, 2020
    9
    This game is the best in the series by far but the multiplayer is a problem. I do believe that it should be one island per cartridge at the least and not one island per switch. Don't even bother with the local multiplayer. Other than that this game is near perfect.
  20. Mar 24, 2020
    9
    Loving it so far. My husband and I are playing together. Admittedly we were a bit stumped at first about only having one island but it's been fun anyway. We keep leaving each other gifts and sending cute mail. It's probably the most romantic we've been in a bit lol. Still a little confused about how you play online with friends. I want to visit their islands but I think that might costLoving it so far. My husband and I are playing together. Admittedly we were a bit stumped at first about only having one island but it's been fun anyway. We keep leaving each other gifts and sending cute mail. It's probably the most romantic we've been in a bit lol. Still a little confused about how you play online with friends. I want to visit their islands but I think that might cost extra and that is a little shady. But the gameplay is super relaxing and enjoyable. The customization options are awesome. It's so cute. I'm honestly spending way more time on it than I expected. A little obsessed lol. Expand
  21. Mar 25, 2020
    9
    Totally unfair that users are slamming this game with a 0/10 review for the 1-island-per-console issue. Yes, it really does suck. It’s a pain and it does somewhat diminish the enjoyment of the game. BUT there are so many amazing facets of the game! The detail, the nook miles system, the nook phone, the creative ways they snuck in old themes (Dodo Airlines in place of Tortimer!) — they areTotally unfair that users are slamming this game with a 0/10 review for the 1-island-per-console issue. Yes, it really does suck. It’s a pain and it does somewhat diminish the enjoyment of the game. BUT there are so many amazing facets of the game! The detail, the nook miles system, the nook phone, the creative ways they snuck in old themes (Dodo Airlines in place of Tortimer!) — they are worth at least a few points! don’t drag down a beautiful game with a 0/10 rating for one issue, even if it is worth the loss of a couple points. Expand
  22. Mar 25, 2020
    9
    The game is utterly fantastic. With the core functions of the old games and the new functions added in, the game is a brilliant blend of nostalgia and a breath of fresh air. Animal Crossing continues to be a relaxing experience for the player and maintains its charm in New Horizons. It's nice to have a new spin on the things we're used to seeing from an Animal Crossing game.

    In regards
    The game is utterly fantastic. With the core functions of the old games and the new functions added in, the game is a brilliant blend of nostalgia and a breath of fresh air. Animal Crossing continues to be a relaxing experience for the player and maintains its charm in New Horizons. It's nice to have a new spin on the things we're used to seeing from an Animal Crossing game.

    In regards to those reviews being left that are upset about there only being one island per console, I share this. From Nintendo themselves on the official Animal Crossing New Horizons website: "Up to eight Nintendo Account holders can live on the same island within each game. With one Nintendo Switch system and one game, up to four of those Nintendo Account holders can play on the same island at the same time (additional accessories required). With additional systems and games, up to eight players can play on the same island at the same time via local wireless or online play. Nintendo Switch Online membership and Nintendo Account required for online features."

    This was clearly stated before the player even purchased the game. This is the way that animal crossing has always been. 1 island per console. The fact that you are even able to have multiple villagers from the same console playing together on the island at the same time is unique to this game only in the series. And they've actually upped this from the typical 4 villagers living in one town to now 8 villagers living on one island, allowing larger families to have unique villagers for each family member. Why would you have multiple islands to choose from on a game that has historically only ever had one town per console, regardless of the type of system the player is using? Playing on a family Wii console with City Folk? One town. Playing on a personal handheld console with Wild World or New Leaf? One town. Just read the information on the game functionality before you buy a game. The game is great all around and is one for the books, just remember to read what the game-play is before you purchase a game.
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  23. Mar 25, 2020
    8
    A very cute and refreshing Animal Crossing game. It offers beautiful graphics and motivation through "setting your own goals", especially with the Nook Miles. Offers many improvements like the tool ring.

    The only thing I need to complain is the long "tutorial phase". It could be a little bit boring and during this time, you'll hear the same bgm. Also I have the feeling the animal
    A very cute and refreshing Animal Crossing game. It offers beautiful graphics and motivation through "setting your own goals", especially with the Nook Miles. Offers many improvements like the tool ring.

    The only thing I need to complain is the long "tutorial phase". It could be a little bit boring and during this time, you'll hear the same bgm. Also I have the feeling the animal villagers are a little bit dull and are annoyed very fast.
    And there are some things I'm missing like the cafe. I hope they'll improve (villagers dialogues) and add those things in an update.

    In overall, it's a lovely new Animal Crossing with some flaws. It was worth the long wait. I don't understand the negative review bomb. It was known for a long time that you can have one island per console. //shrug
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  24. Mar 25, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. From a single player standpoint, this game is amazing. It has lovely graphics, as well as being jam packed full of content. The only reason this isn't getting a perfect score is because of the 1 island per console rule. I play with my sister, and I was the one who started the island. After watching her play for a bit, It was clear how the game satisfaction to both players were very different. She didn't get to decide where structures such as houses or shops would be placed, and it was a bit confusing at first to figure out how she could get the recipes that I had already learned by completing missions such as donating to Tom Nook. This leads me to my next point, which is how player two wont get as much satisfaction from the game as player one would, whereas player one had to complete an objective to gain an important tool crafting recipe, which has a sense of reward, while player two would have the recipe appear in the shop, not having to work for it. If Nintendo had added the feature of being able to have multiple islands per console, there would be no question that Animal Crossing New Horizons would get that perfect 10/10 from almost everyone. Expand
  25. Mar 26, 2020
    9
    Brilliant game! Relaxing, fun, and just sweet. The new additions of Nook Miles and crafting are nice, but it's very much still the same charm as the old animal crossing games. Only flaws are that it isnt clear that you have to open your island up for people to be able to visit, and that you can only have one island per switch console - only major problem for me! Otherwise, fantastic!
  26. Mar 26, 2020
    10
    I love this game so much! Sad to see some sad person review bombing Animal Crossing: New Horizons because you can't have more than 1 island on your switch.
  27. Mar 26, 2020
    10
    Awesome game!!!!! it is an infinite game with innumerable innovations and with an incredible gameplay
  28. Mar 26, 2020
    10
    Great game with a great pace and lots of new features to expand on its New Leaf success.
  29. Mar 26, 2020
    10
    Love the game. I’m sure Nintendo has their reasons why they only allow 1 island per switch. Get over it. Game is perfect.
  30. Mar 27, 2020
    10
    My first Animal Crossing game and it has been an absolute blast to play this. Great job Nintendo! Having one island is great and never would have wanted more!
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 111 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Negative: 0 out of 111
  1. Dec 19, 2020
    95
    Animal Crossing New Horizons is basically perfect. Full of wholesome content that helped us cope with the COVID-19 pandemics, the game keeps the heart of its predecessors while innovating enough to make it unique. It may not have won Game of the Year but it'll be the game we all remember from 2020, for sure.
  2. Jun 22, 2020
    80
    Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a stunning new instalment in the Animal Crossing franchise, hindered only by its lack of immediate content, quality of life issues and missing returning characters and features While future updates will give the game long-term playability, for those already sipping vacation juice on their five-star islands, island life feels pretty mundane right now.
  3. CD-Action
    May 12, 2020
    95
    It’s full of detail, pretty small things, and surprisingly well working simulations and systems – everything polished in such a way that the player really does care about everything that’s going on. [06/2020, p.40]