### Exciting Developments in Animal Crossing: New Horizons with the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Nintendo has announced the upcoming release of **Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition**, set to launch on **January 15, 2026**. This new edition promises significant enhancements over the original game, including improved graphics, mouse control support, and innovative features like an in-game megaphone that utilizes the player's microphone. Additionally, a major free update will be available for existing players, introducing new content and features to enhance the gaming experience [https://bleedingcool.com/games/animal-crossing-new-horizons-nintendo-switch-2-edition-announced][https://noobfeed.com/news/animal-crossing-switch-2-free-update]. ### Breakdown of the Announcement and Features 1. **Release Details** - The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will be available on **January 15, 2026**. - Current owners of the original game can upgrade for **$4.99** [https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/499-paid-upgrade-pack-animal-crossing-new-horizons-nintendo-switch-2-confirmed]. 2. **New Features in the Switch 2 Edition** - Enhanced **4K visuals** for a more immersive experience on TV. - Support for **mouse controls**, allowing for more precise gameplay. - An **in-game megaphone** feature that uses the microphone for communication [https://www.theverge.com/news/809975/animal-crossing-new-horizons-is-getting-a-big-switch-2-upgrade-in-january]. 3. **Free Update for Existing Players** - A significant **free content update** will be released simultaneously, introducing new items and features. - Collaborations with popular franchises like **Zelda** and **Lego** will be included in the update [https://nme.com/news/gaming-news/animal-crossing-new-horizons-surprise-update-zelda-lego-collabs-3904137][https://www.eurogamer.net/animal-crossing-new-horizons-springs-back-to-life-next-year-with-switch-2-edition-major-free-content-update-and-lego-collaboration]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Release Date**: January 15, 2026, for both the Switch 2 Edition and the free update [https://tech.yahoo.com/gaming/articles/animal-crossing-horizons-nets-switch-141317809.html]. - **Upgrade Cost**: $4.99 for existing players to transition to the Switch 2 Edition [https://www.shacknews.com/article/146594/animal-crossing-new-horizons-switch-2-5-dollar-upgrade]. - **New Features**: - 4K visuals - Mouse control support - In-game megaphone using microphone [https://www.polygon.com/animal-crossing-new-horizons-switch-2-edition-upgrade-dlc-zelda-splatoon-lego]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for Animal Crossing: New Horizons In summary, **Animal Crossing: New Horizons** is set to receive a major revival with the **Nintendo Switch 2 Edition** and a comprehensive free update. This dual release aims to enhance the gaming experience significantly while catering to both new and existing players. 1. **Launch Date**: January 15, 2026. 2. **Upgrade Cost**: $4.99 for current owners. 3. **New Features**: Enhanced visuals, mouse support, and innovative gameplay elements. These updates reflect Nintendo's commitment to evolving its beloved franchise while maintaining its core charm [https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-10-30/animal-crossing-new-horizons-switch-2-upgrade-free-update].