With all the excitement surrounding the Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 update, Nintendo has been quietly rolling out even more news that many players may have missed. While everyone has been busy redesigning islands and enjoying new features, there’s actually a lot happening behind the scenes. From upcoming patch updates to real-world events, here’s a full roundup of everything new and noteworthy in the world of ACNH.
A New ACNH Patch Update Is Expected Soon
Although Animal Crossing: New Horizons is currently on version 3.0, history tells us that Nintendo rarely releases a major update without following it up with smaller patches. These patches usually focus on balance tweaks, quality-of-life improvements, and bug fixes.
So far, version 3.0 has been relatively stable, but players have already reported a handful of issues. Some Nintendo Switch 2 users have experienced problems with the megaphone, and others have complained about the intensity of the new rumble feature. While the rumble appears to be an intentional addition, it’s still something Nintendo may adjust.
Looking back at the 2.0 update, a patch arrived roughly one week later. Since 3.0 is a smaller-scale update, fixes may take slightly longer—but it’s very likely we’ll see an update within the next few weeks.
Nintendo Launches New Community Design Challenges
To celebrate the 3.0 update, Nintendo has launched a brand-new Animal Crossing community design challenge via its official Twitter account. The first challenge invites players to share a photo of an outdoor landscape they enjoyed creating on their island.
While there are no rewards announced, this initiative is a fun way to bring the community together and showcase creativity—especially now that players have access to new tools, islands, and customization options. With so many new ACNH items available in 3.0, this feels like the perfect time for players to show off their best designs.
Nintendo has hinted that this is just the first of multiple challenges, so fans can expect more themed prompts in the near future.
Nook Link App Quietly Updated for Animal Crossing 3.0
One update that flew completely under the radar is a small but meaningful refresh to the Nook Link app, available through the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. While minor, the update adds new 3.0-related features that enhance its usefulness as a companion app.
The Island Newspaper now includes:
- Updates on items sent out with Kapp’n
- Tourism-related news
- Hotel renovation progress
It’s subtle, but it’s a great quality-of-life upgrade for dedicated players who like tracking progress, managing ACNH items, and staying informed without loading up the game.
New My Nintendo Rewards Have Been Added
To further celebrate version 3.0, Nintendo has added a new Animal Crossing-themed reward to the My Nintendo rewards program. Players can now redeem Platinum Points for a colorful Animal Crossing bandana.
While technically free, shipping fees still apply. However, fans can bundle multiple rewards together to make the most of their order. Previous rewards have included Brewster-themed coasters and other charming merchandise, and it’s great to see Nintendo continuing to support ACNH fans with physical collectibles.
Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour Returns in 2026
One of the biggest announcements is the return of the Animal Crossing Aquarium Tour across the United States throughout 2026—and even into 2027. These themed events allow fans to meet characters like Tom Nook and Isabelle, purchase exclusive merchandise, and learn about real-life sea creatures featured in the game.
Notably, Kapp’n will be appearing at these events for the first time, reflecting his expanded role in the 3.0 update. The tour is also returning to the Nagoya Sea Life Aquarium in Japan, making this a truly global celebration of Animal Crossing.
With dates spanning the entire year, fans will have plenty of opportunities to attend—especially those who missed the original run.
Even More on the Horizon
On top of all this:
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been the bestselling game in the US this week
- More Animal Crossing LEGO sets are rumored for 2026
- Continued updates may encourage players to earn more ACNH bells and re-engage with the game long-term
All signs point to Nintendo keeping Animal Crossing in the spotlight well into the future.
There’s no doubt about it—this is an exciting time to be an Animal Crossing: New Horizons fan. Between upcoming patch updates, community challenges, real-world events, and new rewards, there’s far more happening than many players realize.
Whether you’re saving up ACNH bells, collecting new ACNH items, or planning to attend an aquarium event, 2026 is shaping up to be a huge year for the franchise. Let us know what you’re most excited about and how you’ve been enjoying the 3.0 update so far.
If you’re looking for something relaxing to enjoy alongside all this exciting news, I highly recommend watching “ACNH Cozy Night Island Tour 🌙 | Flowers Everywhere & a Tiny Market” on YouTube. The video offers a calm, atmospheric nighttime island tour filled with beautifully arranged flowers, soft lighting, and a charming small market area that’s perfect inspiration for decorating with ACNH items. It’s a great watch if you enjoy cozy builds, creative layouts, or simply winding down while getting new ideas for your own island—especially if you’re planning how to spend your hard-earned ACNH bells on your next redesign.
