Fans of Animal Crossing may soon receive long-awaited news about the next installment in the iconic life sim series. According to a new rumor, the sequel to Animal Crossing: New Horizons could be announced during a Nintendo Direct slated for July 2025.
Five Years of Silence – But Not for Much Longer?
Since the release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons in March 2020, fans have been eager for news on what comes next. Despite its massive success—over 46 million units sold as of late 2024—Nintendo has remained silent about a follow-up. With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, many expected the next game to be unveiled alongside the new console reveal. That didn’t happen, but the wait may finally be coming to an end.
Credible Source or Wishful Thinking?
On a recent episode of the Nontendo Podcast, YouTuber Wood Hawker stated that a Nintendo Direct is expected sometime in July 2025, and that it could include a first look at the next Animal Crossing game. Hawker also claimed the game is targeting a 2026 release window—consistent with past Nintendo behavior, where major Animal Crossing entries arrive at least a year after a new console launch.
While this aligns with Nintendo’s historic release patterns—past games have typically launched within 3–5 years of each other—Hawker admitted he could not disclose the source of this information. That lack of transparency has left some fans skeptical, although the rumor continues to gain traction online.
Why It Makes Sense
Strategically, a new Animal Crossing would be a perfect system-seller for Nintendo’s next console. The franchise appeals to a broad audience and plays into the rising popularity of cozy games. With Nintendo preparing to transition into its next hardware generation, pairing that launch with a universally beloved series would be a savvy business move.
Also, considering the seven-year gap between New Leaf and New Horizons, the 2026 projection doesn’t seem unrealistic—especially if development began shortly after the final New Horizons update in 2021.
What Could Be New in the Next Animal Crossing?
While no details have been confirmed, fans have speculated wildly about potential features:
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Larger towns with more customization
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Improved multiplayer and online social features
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Deeper villager relationships and evolving dialogue
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More dynamic weather and seasonal events
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Expanded crafting and farming mechanics
Although the rumor has sparked excitement across the Animal Crossing community, it’s important to remember this information remains unconfirmed by Nintendo. With July approaching, however, fans won’t have to wait long to find out whether this leak holds water.
If the Nintendo Direct rumor proves true, we may finally be heading back to our islands—or perhaps somewhere entirely new—sooner than expected.