Tips for Beginners: Animal Crossing New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons took the gaming world by storm when it was released for the Nintendo Switch in 2020. The game’s laid-back atmosphere, charming villagers, and endless customization options have made it a fan favorite. But if you’re just getting started, the world of Animal Crossing can be a little overwhelming. Whether you’re setting up your first tent, catching bugs, or customizing your island, these tips for beginners: Animal Crossing New Horizons will help you make the most of your time on your island paradise.

Getting Started: Your First Few Days

When you first arrive on your island, you’ll be greeted by Tom Nook, the business-savvy raccoon who runs the island. After a short introduction, you’ll be given a tent and a few basic tools to get started. But what should you focus on first?

1. Collect Everything You Can

In the early days, gather as many resources as possible. Pick up branches, stones, weeds, and shells from the ground. Shake trees to get fruit and wood, and hit rocks to gather iron nuggets and clay. These materials will come in handy when crafting essential tools and furniture.

2. Pay Off Your Moving Fee

Tom Nook will offer you a moving package that comes with a price tag of 5,000 Nook Miles. You can earn Nook Miles by completing simple tasks like catching bugs, fishing, and talking to villagers. Focus on completing these tasks to pay off your moving fee quickly. Once paid, you’ll be able to upgrade from a tent to a house.

3. Upgrade Your Inventory Space

Inventory space is limited at first, and you’ll find yourself running out of room quickly. Once you earn Nook Miles, use them to purchase the Pocket Organization Guide from the Nook Stop in Resident Services. This upgrade will give you more inventory slots, making it easier to carry all your tools and treasures.

Building and Expanding Your Island

After settling in, your focus will shift to improving your island and making it feel like home. Here’s how to make progress quickly and efficiently.

1. Unlock New Villagers

To make your island lively, you’ll need more villagers. Build a bridge and invite new villagers to stay by setting up plots for homes. As you progress, Tom Nook will ask you to prepare plots and furniture for your new neighbors. Try to invite a variety of villagers to add diversity and fun to your island.

2. Donate to Blathers for the Museum

Blathers, the wise owl, will set up a museum on your island after you donate enough bugs, fish, and fossils. Aim to donate at least 15 different species to get the museum up and running. After the museum is built, continue donating to fill it with various creatures and fossils.

3. Focus on Infrastructure

Building bridges, inclines, and upgrading facilities will make your island more accessible and attractive. Start by constructing a bridge to connect different parts of your island. Once you unlock terraforming through the Island Designer app, you can customize your island’s layout, create rivers, and design paths to your liking.

Earning Bells and Nook Miles Efficiently

Bells and Nook Miles are the two main currencies in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. You’ll need them for everything from buying items to paying off your home loans. Here’s how to make money quickly:

1. Sell Bugs, Fish, and Shells

Catching bugs and fish can be a quick way to earn Bells. Some rare creatures, like the tarantula and scorpion, can sell for 8,000 Bells each. Keep an eye out for valuable catches and sell them at Nook’s Cranny.

2. Plant Money Trees

If you see a glowing spot on the ground, dig it up to find 1,000 Bells. You can bury Bells back into the glowing spot to grow a money tree, which will multiply your investment in a few days. Aim to plant at least 10,000 Bells to maximize your return.

3. Complete Nook Miles+ Tasks

Once you unlock Nook Miles+, you’ll have a rotating set of small tasks to complete daily. These tasks, like catching fish or planting flowers, will help you rack up Miles quickly, which you can use to buy items, upgrade tools, or take island tours.

Customizing Your Island and Home

One of the most exciting aspects of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ability to customize your island and home. Here’s how to make your space unique.

1. Use Custom Design Patterns

Unlocking the Custom Design Pro Editor allows you to create unique patterns that you can use for clothing, paths, or decorations. Download designs from other players or create your own for a personalized touch.

2. Decorate Your Home

As you expand your house, you’ll unlock more rooms to decorate. Use furniture, wallpaper, and flooring to match your desired aesthetic. Try themes like a cozy cabin, tropical paradise, or modern loft to give your home personality.

3. Terraforming and Landscaping

After earning a 5-star island rating, you’ll unlock the Island Designer app that lets you reshape the land. You can add rivers, cliffs, and paths to create the island of your dreams. Experiment with different layouts to make your island feel special.

Socializing and Multiplayer Fun

Animal Crossing: New Horizons isn’t just about island life—it’s also a great way to connect with friends.

1. Visit Other Islands

Use Dodo Airlines to visit friends’ islands or invite them to yours. Share resources, exchange items, and explore each other’s creations. It’s a fun way to gather inspiration and find rare items.

2. Join Seasonal Events

Animal Crossing hosts seasonal events throughout the year, like Bunny Day, Halloween, and Toy Day. Participate in these events to collect limited-time items and interact with villagers in festive settings.

Advanced Tips to Level Up Your Game

Once you’ve mastered the basics, there are still plenty of ways to take your gameplay to the next level.

1. Master Turnip Trading

Daisy Mae visits your island every Sunday morning to sell turnips. Buy turnips at a low price and sell them later in the week when prices spike. Follow the “stalk market” to maximize your profits.

2. Unlock K.K. Slider’s Concerts

Achieve a 3-star island rating to invite K.K. Slider, the famous canine musician, to perform. His concerts unlock more features, including the Island Designer app.

3. Aim for a 5-Star Island

To earn a 5-star island rating, maintain a clean island, decorate with furniture, and ensure a good balance of flowers and trees. Isabelle will provide feedback to help you improve your score.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is all about taking things at your own pace and enjoying the little moments. Whether you’re perfecting your island’s design, making friends with your villagers, or participating in seasonal events, there’s always something new to discover. By following these tips for beginners: Animal Crossing New Horizons, you’ll create a vibrant island that feels like home in no time.