The Animal Crossing: New Horizons anniversary update is now live

The Animal Crossing: New Horizons anniversary update is available now, which brings players plenty more upgrades, exclusive items, and a cake to commemorate the occasion.

It’s hard to believe that players have had the joys of island living for almost a whole year now, after Animal Crossing: New Horizons was originally released March 20, 2020. To celebrate this milestone, Nook Inc have sent out a themed anniversary cake which is decorated with a number one candle, apple tree biscuits, and other iconic in-game shrubbery. 

The latest Animal Crossing: New Horizons update is available now! Check your in-game mailbox after downloading it for a surprise from Nook Inc. ahead of the game’s first anniversary on 20th March! pic.twitter.com/CCSARqitVwMarch 18, 2021

Other upgrades that fans will be able to enjoy after downloading the 1.9.0 update include the Custom Design Pro Editor+, which gives players the option to place custom designs on new and existing items such as umbrellas, small flags, uchiwa fans, and photo stands - an item that hasn’t been in the game since 2012’s Animal Crossing: New Leaf. This add-on is available from the Nook Stop in Resident Services for 2,000 Nook Miles. 

That’s not all the Custom Design Pro Editor + has to offer though, as it also gifts fans with 50 new slots for both Normal and Pro designs. This update has also gifted players with a new Custom Design Portal app for their Nook Phone, which is also available at Resident Services for 300 Nook Miles. This means that players will be able to import custom designs from other islanders without heading to the Able Sisters - where the original portal was based.

If these new features weren’t exciting enough, Nintendo have also released a number of seasonal items including a Whoopee Cushion in time for April Fool’s Day (which is only available from March 26 - April 1), as well as a selection of Prom-themed items such as elegant clothing at the Able Sisters and the Prom Night wall, flooring, and Prom stash which will be available from Nook Shopping from April 1 - April 30.

Finally, the Animal Crossing Sanrio collaboration has also been introduced with this update, giving players access to several Sanrio themed items and villagers with the use of the new Sanrio Amiibo cards. If you’re not familiar with the Japanese mascot company, Sanrio are responsible for everyone’s favourite cutesy characters: Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, and so many more. There’s never been a more spot on collaboration. 

To keep up to date with the latest goings-on on your island, take a look at our upcoming Animal Crossing: New Horizons events list.