Overview: A New Edition, But Limited DLC
The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons brings updated hardware features and a refined gameplay experience for fans. However, players should not expect the paid DLC Happy Home Paradise to come bundled with this new release. Nintendo has highlighted hardware enhancements, faster load times, and improved visuals, but there’s no indication that the DLC content will be included by default in the Switch 2 edition.
Why the DLC Isn’t Included by Default
Happy Home Paradise was originally released as paid DLC for the base Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. While it delivered additional furniture, design options, and a new vacation-themed experience, there’s no official statement suggesting it will be part of the Switch 2 bundle. This mirrors a common practice in console refresh cycles where new hardware ships with core content and optional expansions sold separately.
Fans who owned the DLC on prior platforms may wonder if cross-save or digital transfer will complicate access. At this time, there’s no confirmed plan from Nintendo indicating automatic DLC compatibility or free transfer of paid expansions with the Switch 2 edition. Players should be prepared to purchase Happy Home Paradise separately if they want the full expansion content on the new system.
What This Means for Purchases and Planning
If you’re considering upgrading to the Switch 2 Edition for Animal Crossing, here are practical steps and expectations to keep in mind:
- Check the product listing carefully: Look for language about bundled DLC content before purchasing.
- Preserve your save data: Use cloud save or local transfer options if available to keep your progress intact when moving to the Switch 2.
- Budget for expansions: Happy Home Paradise and other paid DLCs may require separate purchases on the new hardware.
- Keep an eye on Nintendo’s announcements: Major updates about cross-compatibility or bundled content could change, so follow official channels for the latest information.
What to Expect Quality-Wise on Switch 2
Beyond content included or excluded, the Switch 2 Edition is expected to deliver improved performance: faster loading, smoother frame rates, and enhanced on-screen visuals. These upgrades can enhance the overall Animal Crossing experience, making island life feel more vibrant even without bundled DLC. For players who use the DLC, the improved hardware can also help with design-heavy tasks in Happy Home Paradise, should they choose to purchase it separately.
Community Reactions and Fan Perspective
Many fans are accustomed to paid expansions following a main game release. The decision to omit bundled DLC is generally met with mixed reactions: some welcome the lower upfront price, while others prefer a complete package. In any case, the Nintendo community is likely to adapt quickly, sharing tips on how to maximize the Switch 2 Edition’s new features and how to approach Happy Home Paradise purchases.
Bottom Line
Actionable PSA: If you’re eyeing the Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, prepare for a console refresh with better hardware, but plan to buy Happy Home Paradise separately if you want that extra design content. Stay tuned to official Nintendo sources for definitive details on bundles, transfers, and DLC availability as the release approaches.
