Overview
- Nintendo has recently submitted a patent that suggests the inclusion of a newspaper feature in an upcoming Animal Crossing title.
- This patent details a system for creating a newspaper that highlights events akin to those occurring in the Animal Crossing universe.
- While the patent’s implementation remains uncertain, the future release of a new Animal Crossing game seems highly probable.
Nintendo’s latest patent filing could signal an exciting new feature for the anticipated installment of the Animal Crossing series. The franchise has gained immense popularity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic with the successful launch of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Given that five years have passed since that title’s debut and with a new Nintendo console on the horizon, it’s expected that announcements regarding the next game will come soon.
As it stands, Nintendo has not officially confirmed a new Animal Crossing game. The company has remained largely silent about its lineup for the upcoming Switch 2, only revealing a new Mario Kart title for the system so far. More information about the Switch 2’s game catalog will be disclosed in the coming months. In the meantime, the recent patent could provide insight into Nintendo’s potential plans for the beloved series.
Potential Newspaper Feature Uncovered in Nintendo’s Patent
The patent reveals a concept for a newspaper that would compile in-game events, featuring headlines related to occurrences on a player’s island. An example image from the patent depicts an Island Newspaper showcasing an upcoming Halloween celebration, summarizing past in-game events such as sightings of shooting stars, catching insects, completing DIY projects, and other notable developments. Most notably, the example appears to reference Animal Crossing: New Horizons, yet the patent was initially filed in 2024 and only made public in 2025.
While this feature could be a delightful addition to the forthcoming Animal Crossing title being developed for the Nintendo Switch 2, it remains uncertain whether Nintendo will actively pursue this patent. It’s important to note that companies often file patents that may never translate into real features in games or consoles. This patent might also find its application in an entirely different game, with Animal Crossing solely serving as an illustrative example. Hence, enthusiasts should temper their expectations regarding the newspaper feature’s presence in the next title.
Although the specific features of the next Animal Crossing game remain under wraps, it is almost certain that the franchise will see another installment. The overwhelming success of Animal Crossing: New Horizons not only generated impressive sales but also earned substantial critical acclaim. The game’s ongoing popularity ensures that Animal Crossing on Switch 2 is a matter of “when”rather than “if.”
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