What is Animal Crossing?
Animal Crossing is a charming, cartoon-like life simulation game, released for the Nintendo Switch in 2020. It allows players to build and manage their own island paradise.
The game’s world is a whimsical, open-ended island environment with changing seasons and weather. The art style is child-like, cute, and colorful, and the game features a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
Animal Crossing provides a relaxing and charming gaming experience where players create and manage their virtual island paradise with an emphasis on creativity, community, and customization. Animal Crossing is not only a game but a platform for personal expression and community building, making it a valuable and engaging experience for kids.
The game’s appeal lies in its open-ended gameplay and the freedom to create and explore. It offers a relaxing escape with charming, colorful characters and creative possibilities. The real-time clock and seasonal changes keep the game dynamic and engaging.
How to play
In this game, players create and manage their own island, interacting with child-friendly anthropomorphic animal characters and engaging in various activities. Players start with a small deserted island and gradually develop it by adding buildings, decorating, and customizing their surroundings.
The game features activities like fishing, bug catching, fossil hunting, and home decoration. It can be played solo or with others, allowing players can also visit other players’ islands, share resources, and collaborate on projects.
The main goal is to create and personalize your idyllic island paradise. There are no strict objectives or end goals; it’s about enjoying the process of building, decorating, and interacting with the game’s cute characters.
Recommended age
This game is rated for all ages. Its gentle gameplay and non-competitive nature make it suitable for young children and enjoyable for players of all ages
What to be aware of
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In-game currency: The game features a currency system where players can earn and spend Bells and Nook Miles. The collection of these coins can serve as a retaining feature for kids. While not necessary, in-game purchases are available for additional items.
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Online interaction: Be mindful of online interactions and privacy settings, as players can visit each other’s islands and access a chat function to chat with other online players.
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Screen time: As with any game, we need to be mindful of screen time. In these kinds of open-ended sandbox games, there are no natural levels and endings, so the gameplay can go on endlessly.
Key terminology
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Nook Miles: A type of in-game currency earned through completing tasks and challenges.
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Bells: The primary currency used in the game can be earned or found throughout the game.
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DIY recipes: Blueprints used to craft items and furniture in the game.
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Villagers: The anthropomorphic animal characters that live on your island.
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Turnips: An item bought from Daisy Mae (a game character) and sold for profit; used in the game’s Stalk Market.
- Stalk Market: The feature allowing the selling and buying of turnips.
