Since the launch of Animal Crossing: New Horizons in March 2020, Nintendo has consistently introduced a variety of themed events. This trend of incorporating holiday and special in-game events has been a hallmark of the Animal Crossing series since its inception. However, New Horizons has taken these events to an entirely new level, cultivating a rich tapestry of seasonal activities that keep players eagerly engaged. As we look forward to another themed event, there is a growing sentiment that Nintendo may have missed an opportunity in a significant way.
The Legacy of Animal Crossing Events
In-game events have long been an integral part of Animal Crossing, tracing back to the series’ early titles. Given the extensive history of events across various Animal Crossing games, it is beneficial to reflect on how Nintendo has utilized these experiences in the past.
Among the earliest major events established in the Animal Crossing franchise are Halloween and Toy Day. Given their prevalence in other simulation games, their inclusion in the series is quite predictable. While these two events are also featured in New Horizons, the game has introduced a plethora of additional events unanchored to real-world holidays.
Recurring celebrations like the Fishing Tourney, Bug-Off, International Museum Day, and the Fireworks Show provide players with unique chances to gather items and engage in event-focused activities, such as Redd’s raffle and Blathers’ stamp collection. It is noteworthy, however, that the Nature Day event was removed from New Horizons in patch 1.9.0, transitioning into a Nook Shopping seasonal feature instead.
The franchise’s interpretation of Valentine’s Day holds a distinctive place within the Animal Crossing universe. Initially absent from the original Doubutsu no Mori, the event was eventually incorporated, culminating in its introduction in New Horizons with the 1.7.0 free update. During this celebration, players receive letters containing either a chocolate heart or a heart-shaped bouquet from villagers with whom they share a close friendship, as well as from Isabelle. Additionally, these items are available for purchase via Nook Shopping.
Celebrating Valentine’s Day in 2025: New Gameplay Insights
This year, as part of the 2025 Valentine’s Day festivities, Nintendo revealed new gifting items – the “Heart Chocolate” and “Heart Rose Bouquet.” Players in Japan can present these gifts to their in-game neighbors, with a chance for one thousand selected participants to win exclusive badges featuring iconic characters like Tom Nook, Isabelle, and Brewster. Notifications regarding these prizes will be sent out via Nintendo Accounts by February 20.
While the new gifting gameplay appears exciting and could easily be implemented for players around the world, the restriction to just one thousand participants raises concerns about accessibility. This limited capacity for acquiring badges has disappointed many, considering how enjoyable it would have been for a broader audience.
Nonetheless, Animal Crossing events remain an exhilarating aspect of gameplay. As players in Japan gear up for this year’s Valentine’s Day celebration on February 14, the continuous evolution of these events keeps the spirit of the game alive.
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