Why Animal Crossing: New Horizons Missed a Golden Opportunity Post-Launch

Highlights

Animal Crossing: New Horizons received a big update in November 2021, but it still lacks certain features.

The game currently has a limited number of bugs and fish, only slightly more than the previous version. Unfortunately, Nintendo failed to utilize the update to introduce new critters, which could have enhanced player interest and engagement.

The most recent addition to Nintendo's Animal Crossing franchise proved to be a resounding success three years ago. Despite launching during a global pandemic, this cozy life simulation provided a much-needed escape for countless players. Moreover, the series has enjoyed enduring popularity for over two decades.

In November 2021, Animal Crossing: New Horizons received an eagerly anticipated major update, greatly thrilling its devoted community. Although the update introduced several exciting additions, including 16 new villagers, The Roost, cooking, and more, there are still noticeable gaps in its features. Despite the developer's assurance that no further significant upgrades will be implemented, it is evident that Nintendo overlooked an obvious post-launch option.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons Should Have Added More Critters

Currently, New Horizons features a total of 80 bugs and 80 fish, as stated by Nookipedia. While this number may not be small, it is only slightly higher than the amount of critters that were present in the previous game, New Leaf, in 2012. Although it is not necessary for players to catch every single creature, it does have an impact on the overall gameplay. Whenever players do encounter bugs or fish, they have the option to record them in their Critterpedia. By completing this list, players can earn exclusive achievements and Nook Miles, which is one of the two currencies in the game.

Since the latest update, fish now serve multiple purposes within the game. They can be used in various cooking recipes, such as the Sea-bass pie, donated to Blathers for museum exhibits, or kept for individual displays. This applies to sea creatures like mussels or moon jellyfish, which were introduced in the Summer Update Wave 1.

New Horizons launched with eight never-before-seen bugs and eight brand-new fish, but disappointingly, Animal Crossing's Version 2.0 update did not introduce any new critters. Nintendo missed an opportunity to explore additional options that could have maintained players' interest. However, it is not too late for the developers to consider a small update. Speculation suggests that a surprise update may be on its way, and adding new critters, such as snakes and frogs, to the Critterpedia could be a welcomed feature, similar to Pokemon Sword and Shield's updates to its Pokedex.

In order to create a more immersive tropical experience in New Horizons, it would be beneficial to introduce a wider variety of sea creatures and insects that are typically found on islands. This could include vibrant reef fish, playful dolphins, and majestic whales. Interestingly, whales were featured in previous Animal Crossing games for the GameCube, although they were not catchable. Additionally, incorporating certain pests like black widows and termites into the game's roster would add a touch of realism. Since termite mounds are already present as decorative houseware items, it makes sense to have the actual bugs roaming around players' islands.

Although it remains uncertain whether New Horizons will receive a new update, it would be wise for Nintendo to consider expanding the critter list in future Animal Crossing games. Hopefully, the company will provide an official statement on this matter soon.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available now on Nintendo Switch.