How Often Do Animal Crossing Games Come Out?
The Animal Crossing franchise has gained immense popularity in recent years, with Nintendo’s latest installment, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, being one of the most anticipated games on the Nintendo Switch. This beloved life simulation series allows players to build, create, and live in virtual worlds, connecting with animals and enjoying a peaceful retreat from reality. As such, it’s natural for fans to wonder when and how often new Animal Crossing games are released. This article will provide an update on the franchise’s timeline, helping fans anticipate their next adventure.
Summary of Past Releases
Looking back, Animal Crossing: Wild World (2005) for the Nintendo DS marked the series’ 10th anniversary. This game set the stage for what would become a successful annual release schedule, with updates and expansions keeping the brand fresh. Since then:
- Animal Crossing: New Leaf (2012)
- Animal Crossing: Amiibo Festival (2015) (spin-off)
- Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer (2015)
- Animal Crossing: amiibo (2015)
- Animal Crossing: New Leaf – Welcome amiibo (2015)
- Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp (2016) (mobile game)
Releasing a Game Every Four Years: History and Insights
| In his 2020 financial call, Shuntaro Furukawa, president of Nintendo, hinted at a rough four-year cycle for new mainline Animal Crossing titles. Taking this information into account and considering past releases, an analysis can be made: | Year | Animal Crossing Game(s) | Release Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Animal Crossing: Wild World | New console releases | |
| 2009 | Annual updates and spin-offs began | ||
| 2012 | Animal Crossing: New Leaf | Consistent, two-year spaced releases | |
| 2015 | Animal Crossing: amiibo Festival + Happy Home Designer | Triangular release scheme: Spin-off + major title + update/expansion | |
| 2018 | Single major release: Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp (Mobile) | ||
| 2020 | Animal Crossing: New Horizons | Mainline game |