How to Play Animal Crossing with Friends

Animal Crossing

What is Animal Crossing?
Animal Crossing is a life-simulation game series developed by Nintendo. In this game, players live in a village populated by anthropomorphic animals, engaging in activities like fishing, gardening, and decorating.

Why Play with Friends?
Playing with friends in Animal Crossing enhances the experience by allowing you to visit each other’s islands, trade items, and enjoy multiplayer activities.

Getting Started

Platform Availability

Available exclusively on Nintendo Switch.

Setting Up the Game

Purchase Animal Crossing: New Horizons from the Nintendo eShop or a retailer.
Ensure your Nintendo Switch has an active internet connection.
Set up a Nintendo Online subscription for multiplayer access.

Creating Your Island

Start by designing your own island and choosing its layout.
Customize your character and home as you progress.

Multiplayer Basics

How to Add Friends

Exchange Friend Codes via the Nintendo Switch.
Accept friend requests to connect with others.

Visiting Friends’ Islands

Use the Dodo Airlines at your island’s airport to visit a friend’s island.
Choose between local play (same Wi-Fi network) or online play (internet).

Hosting Friends on Your Island

Open your gates at Dodo Airlines to invite friends to visit.
Share the unique Dodo Code with others for easy access.

Step-by-Step Guide to Playing with Friends

1. Prepare Your Island

Clean up your island and arrange decorations to impress your visitors.
Stock up on items or resources you may want to trade.

2. Communicate Effectively

Use in-game chat to coordinate activities.
Use tools like the Nintendo Switch Online app for voice chat.

3. Visit or Host an Island

Decide whether to visit a friend’s island or host them on yours.
Follow in-game instructions to establish a connection.

4. Share Items and Resources

Trade fruits, flowers, and DIY recipes to diversify your inventory.
Gift each other furniture or rare items.

5. Participate in Activities

Go fishing or bug-catching together.
Host friendly competitions like treasure hunts or fashion shows.

Tips for a Better Multiplayer Experience

Respect Each Other’s Islands:
- Avoid trampling flowers or taking items without permission.
Bring Gifts:
- A small present like rare fruit or a crafted item can make visits more enjoyable.
Take Photos:
- Use the in-game camera to capture memories with your friends.
Plan Events:
- Schedule themed events or parties to keep gameplay exciting.
Use Custom Designs:
- Share and showcase custom clothing or patterns you’ve created.

Essential Multiplayer Activities

Activity	Benefit
Trading Resources	Access rare fruits and materials
Island Tours	Discover design inspirations
Fishing Tournaments	Win prizes and compete with friends
Bug-Off Competitions	Catch bugs for rewards
Custom Design Sharing	Showcase your creativity

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Backing Up Your Island:
- Use the Island Backup service to prevent data loss.
Ignoring Etiquette:
- Always ask before picking flowers or harvesting resources.
Forgetting Time Zones:
- Coordinate playtimes with friends in different time zones.
Not Preparing Inventory Space:
- Keep your pockets clear to collect gifts and trade items.
Overloading Your Internet Connection:
- Ensure a stable connection to avoid disconnections.

Advanced Multiplayer Strategies

Host Island Tours:
- Create unique attractions on your island for friends to explore.
Set Up Trading Markets:
- Designate areas for item exchanges or turnip trading.
Collaborate on Projects:
- Work together to design custom landscapes or themed areas.
Participate in Seasonal Events:
- Join limited-time events like Bunny Day or Halloween for special rewards.
Use Amiibo Cards:
- Invite exclusive characters to your island and share the experience with friends.