The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 has officially launched, and with it comes the definitive version of everyone's favorite island simulator. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition arrived on January 15, 2026, bringing stunning 4K resolution, expanded multiplayer, and a suite of new creative tools. Whether you are upgrading your existing island or starting fresh on the new hardware, navigating the transition is critical. In this guide, we break down exactly how to transfer your Animal Crossing island to Switch 2 and optimize your settings for the best possible experience.

How to Transfer Your Island to Switch 2

Moving your island isn't as simple as swapping a game cartridge. Because Animal Crossing: New Horizons save data is tied to the console rather than the user profile, you must use the specialized Nintendo Switch 2 Island Transfer Tool. This process ensures your thousands of hours of terraforming and villager friendships carry over safely.

Step 1: Prepare Both Consoles

Before starting, ensure both your original Nintendo Switch (Source) and your new Nintendo Switch 2 (Target) are connected to the same local Wi-Fi network. You must download the free Island Transfer Tool from the Nintendo eShop on both systems. Additionally, make sure your game is updated to the latest version (3.0.0 or higher) on the old console.

Step 2: Initiate the Transfer

Launch the Transfer Tool on both devices. On your old Switch, select "Source" and confirm the name of your island when it appears. On your shiny new Switch 2, select "Target". The tool will search for the source signal. Once they connect, you will see a prompt to proceed. Confirm the transfer on the Source system first, then hit "Proceed" on the Target system.

Step 3: Verification and Cleanup

The transfer process moves the save data completely—it does not create a copy. Once the bar reaches 100%, your island will be deleted from the old Switch and ready to play on the Switch 2. Launch the Switch 2 Edition of the game, and you should wake up in your home exactly where you left off, but now with significantly sharper visuals.

Enabling 4K Graphics and Performance Settings

One of the biggest selling points of the Animal Crossing New Horizons Switch 2 enhancements is the leap in visual fidelity. While the game still targets a cozy 30 frames per second to maintain simulation stability, the resolution boost is massive.

  • TV Mode: The game automatically outputs at native 4K resolution when docked. Textures on clothing, furniture, and the museum exhibits are noticeably crisp, with no jagged edges.
  • Handheld Mode: On the Switch 2's new screen, the game runs at a locked 1080p, making handheld play look sharper than ever before.

To ensure you are getting the full 4K experience, go to your console's System Settings, navigate to TV Settings, and verify that "TV Resolution" is set to "Automatic" or "4K". There are no complex graphics sliders within the game itself; the upgrade is seamless and automatic for ACNH Switch 2 4K settings.

New Switch 2 Exclusive Features

Beyond the resolution bump, the Switch 2 version utilizes the new hardware's unique capabilities. The right Joy-Con now supports mouse-like pointer controls, making decorating interiors and designing custom patterns faster and more intuitive than using analog sticks.

The update also introduces 12-player online multiplayer, exclusive to the Switch 2 Edition. This allows for larger gatherings and parties on your island. Additionally, the new CameraPlay feature lets you plug in a compatible USB camera to project your real-time facial expressions onto your villager during online sessions, adding a new layer of immersion to social play.

Upgrade Costs and Version Differences

If you already own the original game, you don't need to pay full price for these enhancements. Nintendo offers a $4.99 Upgrade Pack for existing owners, which unlocks the 4K visuals, mouse controls, and expanded multiplayer. For new players, the standalone Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition retails for $64.99 and includes the base game plus the new 3.0 content updates like the Resort Hotel and Slumber Islands.