Nintendo Patent Suggests Potential Feature for Upcoming Animal Crossing Game

A fresh patent from Nintendo has sparked curiosity about potential innovations for the upcoming Animal Crossing game. The Animal Crossing series has been a cornerstone for Nintendo, particularly gaining momentum during the pandemic when Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a fan favorite. It’s been half a decade since New Horizons launched, and with a new Nintendo console on the horizon, it’s just a matter of time before we hear about the series’ next installment.

Currently, Nintendo hasn’t officially announced a new Animal Crossing game. The company is playing its cards close to the chest regarding plans for the Switch 2, having only confirmed a new Mario Kart title. While more details about Switch 2 are expected in the coming months, an intriguing patent might just offer a sneak peek into what could be in store for Animal Crossing fans.

Nintendo’s recent patent unveils a concept for a newspaper function within a game, prominently featuring what seems to be references to Animal Crossing. The application illustrates an “Island Newspaper” with headings about a Halloween event and summaries of various island activities from the previous in-game weeks—a touch of charm for fans who love staying updated on island happenings. Featured activities in the patent include celestial events, insect captures, construction completions, and museum developments.

The concept of a newspaper feature for Animal Crossing isn’t entirely far-fetched, considering the franchise’s emphasis on real-time events and community-driven activities. Submitted in 2024 and published in 2025, the patent appears tailored to Animal Crossing: New Horizons. However, while this might suggest plans for the next Animal Crossing entry on the Nintendo Switch 2, gamers should temper their expectations. It’s not uncommon for companies like Nintendo to secure multiple patents, many of which never see the light of day in commercial products. There’s always the possibility that this feature won’t make it past the drawing board or could pivot into a different project altogether.

Speculation aside, the launch of another Animal Crossing game feels inevitable, given the staggering success of New Horizons. Not only did it dominate sales charts, but it also captured the hearts of players worldwide. The game continues to have a vibrant player base, keeping daily island life bustling and vibrant. The transition to Nintendo Switch 2 seems more a question of “when” rather than “if.”

So, while we eagerly await more concrete announcements from Nintendo, the prospect of a fresh take on the beloved Animal Crossing series is undoubtedly something for fans to look forward to, possibly with new features that amplify the charm and community spirit the games are known for.