ANIMAL CROSSING REVIEW: BLISS IN PARADISE

     The latest Animal Crossing game, which is available on Switch, has been a global blockbuster. The title has been shattering sales records and has entertained millions of families sheltered at home during the COVID-19 Pandemic. As a title that is entirely peaceful, focused on cultivating a thriving community among talking animals, it is an ideal way to distract oneself from the perils of the real world. In the game there is definitely something for everyone, both kids and adults alike. Among the plethora of activities are fishing, bug catching, planting, fossil hunting, crafting, fashion design, and infrastructure.

     The setting of the community is far different from previous Animal Crossings, where the player would build a village and travel via train station. In this entry, the player moves to a deserted island and helps transform this private getaway into a thriving place. Another key change is the introduction of landscaping tools, which allow the player to order bridges, ramps, and other additions to the Island. The Nook Phone, which is, in essence a smart phone, allows the player to utilize a multitude of apps to aid them in their quest toward building a golden age of prosperity. The Museum has received a massive overhaul and is, by far the most distinguished and in-depth version they’ve ever had in an Animal Crossing game. Blathers is back, once again as the Museum Curator, and will accept your donations of fish, insects, fossils, and art. (In a new update coming April 23^rd, art will be available to find and donate to the museum.).

     For a game that is already amazing and a true joy to play, it’s about to get even better. The April 23^rd update will bring many new events, items, and characters back into the world of Animal Crossing. Leif, the plant loving Sloth, will periodically visit the island and sell previously unavailable plants and seeds. Redd, the mischievous black-market Fox, will sail his boat periodically to the island and sell his art and other goods. Nature Day Event will run from April 23^rd to May 4^th, May Day Tour will run from May 1^st to May 7^th, International Museum Day will run from May 18^th to May 31^st, and Wedding Season, (Married Alpacas Reese and Cyrus return.) will run from June 1^st to June 30^th. All of these events will bring new challenges, awards, items, and characters into the game. Animal Crossing is already one of the very best games of the year, and this update cements it.