Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition: DLC Not Included

Unlock New Horizons: Enhanced Gameplay, Separate Adventures

The Anticipated Arrival of the Switch 2 Edition

Nintendo is set to release a refreshed version of its popular life simulation game, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, optimized for the Switch 2 console early next year. This updated edition is expected to bring various improvements and new functionalities tailored to the advanced hardware, promising an even more immersive island life experience for players.

Happy Home Paradise: A Separate Expedition

Despite the excitement surrounding the new Switch 2 Edition, one detail has caught the attention of fans: the Happy Home Paradise downloadable content (DLC) will not be integrated into this new release. Originally launched in 2021 for the initial Switch version, this paid expansion offers players unique design opportunities. For those eager to explore the creative possibilities within Happy Home Paradise, it will need to be acquired independently, either through a direct purchase or by subscribing to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.

Unpacking the Upgrade: What's Included

The official packaging for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition explicitly states that it comprises the core game along with a dedicated upgrade pack designed for the Switch 2. This pack is slated to deliver fresh content, enhanced features, and performance improvements. For current owners of the original Switch version of New Horizons, the Switch 2 upgrade will also be available as a standalone digital purchase, providing an accessible pathway to the latest enhancements without needing to repurchase the entire game.

Echoes of Prior Releases: A Consistent Approach

This decision to exclude DLC from the main package is not unprecedented for Nintendo. Previous Switch 2 Editions, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, also required players to purchase their respective downloadable content separately. The consistent messaging across these releases suggests a deliberate strategy by Nintendo regarding the packaging of updated games and their expansions.

Upcoming Updates and Future Information

As the release date of January 15, 2026, for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition approaches, further details may emerge. Nintendo might provide additional clarifications or make adjustments to the included content. Fans are advised to stay tuned for any official announcements that could offer new insights into the game's offerings.