Create Your Own World With 'Animal Crossing'

VIDEO GAME REVIEW

By Dakiyah Floyd
Spectrum Staff Writer

       If you have some form of an online presence; whether it be Twitter, Tik-Tok, or even Pinterest, you’ve probably seen tons of videos about Nintendo’s "Animal Crossing" game series. For those of you who haven’t, let me explain. Animal Crossing is a simulation game, where you create a character and with the help of a questionable raccoon named Tom Nook and a few other adorable animals, you build and customize your world.

       The newest addition to the series is “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” (ACNH) that is set on a deserted island. Nintendo released the game during the pandemic when we needed to clear our minds and be somewhat productive during the quarantine.So, if out of boredom or curiosity you’ve recently given in and spent $60 to pretend like you’re on an island, you’ve also just spent $60 to be very confused. Between all the talking animals and an empty island covered in weeds; you’re bound to be overwhelmed.

       But, you don’t have to be overwhelmed, so this is what you should know before starting ACNH. 

       So, first, let’s make plans. You need to be precise about what layout you choose for your island at the beginning. I chose at random and didn’t look at the map options I was given. My layout isn’t my favorite and it affects how I style my island. Get a good idea of how you want your island to look before choosing your layout and map.

       Now, let's talk about nook miles. Nook miles are a form of currency in the game and can be hard to earn. I learned an easier process from a Youtuber who goes by the name Ryan FTW. Everyday Ryan collects all the items he needs for daily tasks. His daily schedule in the game earns him 10,000 nook miles every time he plays. This way is much easier than running around your island completing tasks at random.

       You probably won’t like your first villagers and that’s OK. At the beginning of the game, two villagers randomize on your island and a few more random villagers follow. I’ve seen people frustrate and overwhelm themselves trying to get rid of villagers they don’t like. Believe me when I say it’s not a big deal. Eventually, the animals that you don’t like, because of how their dressed or because they have bug eyes, will leave your island. Be patient and take advantage of all the items those villagers will gift you over time.

To terraform or to not terraform? That is the question. In the game, you’ll be given the power to build up your world. The terraforming tool allows you to create cliffs, mountains, waterfalls and ponds. It’s very overwhelming, and had I been prepared, I probably wouldn’t have ignored the tool for weeks.

       To properly prepare for terraforming you should watch YouTube videos and practice using the terraforming tools. Once again Youtuber, Ryan FTW is a reliable source and has a short and helpful video on how to master terraforming. Also, you don’t have to terraform, you can build and customize in so many other ways if it’s not your style.

       My best and final piece of advice is to have fun; it’s just a game! You should follow all my tips I’ve listed because they can help make things easier for you. But remember, it isn’t that serious. It’s OK if you time travel (which is a cheat for impatient people like me) or if your island looks a mess for a while. It’s your island and your game, so you can play however you please. You’ll probably make mistakes, your theme may not go as planned, or your island won’t look like the ones online; but there is no right or wrong way to play.

       If you decide to purchase "Animal Crossing" because of what you just read, remember these details because they can go a long way in helping you to get into the game. It’ll make your gameplay less frustrating and you may just end up with an island that someone else pins to their Pinterest board for inspiration.