Animal Crossing

Animal Crossing made its debut in 2001 with the release of Animal Crossing for the Nintendo 64 in Japan, though it wasn't until the GameCube version, Animal Crossing (2002), that it gained international recognition. Developed by Nintendo's EPD division, the game introduced a unique life simulation experience, where players live in a village populated by anthropomorphic animals and engage in activities like fishing, bug catching, and home decoration. The franchise's charm lies in its relaxing, open-ended gameplay and its emphasis on real-time, seasonal events. Subsequent releases, such as Animal Crossing: Wild World (2005) for the DS and Animal Crossing: New Leaf (2012) for the 3DS, refined the formula with new features like online multiplayer and enhanced customization.

The series reached new heights of popularity with Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020) for the Nintendo Switch, which arrived during the global COVID-19 pandemic and became a cultural phenomenon as players used the game as a virtual escape, creating their dream islands and connecting with friends. Known for its calming atmosphere and emphasis on community and creativity, Animal Crossing has become one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises, offering players a timeless, stress-free world to explore and make their own.

Main Animal Crossing Games

• Animal Crossing (2001) – Nintendo 64 (Japan)

• Animal Crossing (2002) – GameCube (North America)

• Animal Crossing: Wild World (2005) – Nintendo DS

• Animal Crossing: City Folk (2008) – Wii

• Animal Crossing: New Leaf (2012) – Nintendo 3DS

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020) – Nintendo Switch

Other Animal Crossing Games

• Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer (2015) – Nintendo 3DS

• Animal Crossing: Amiibo Festival (2015) – Wii U

• Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp (2017) – Mobile

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Special Editions (2020) – Nintendo Switch (includes limited editions and console bundles)

Animal Crossing Remakes

• Animal Crossing: Wild World (2014) – Nintendo 3DS (Virtual Console port of the Wild World version)

• Animal Crossing: New Leaf – Welcome amiibo (2016) – Nintendo 3DS (update to New Leaf with new content)