Animal Crossing: New Horizons anniversary update announced

Animal Crossing: New Horizons will receive its next major update this week, with new items, updated events, and quality-of-life changes included.

The next update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons had already been confirmed for this week, as Sanrio-themed characters and items were announced to be added in an 18 March update, but it turns out that's not all we're getting. Seasonal items and events, new NookPhone apps, and more are also being added.

Firstly, the Sanrio content, which will be available to owners of the Sanrio Collaboration Pack amiibo cards: all six villagers from these cards are being added to the game, along with furniture items themed on Hello Kitty and more. These will be available from 18 March, while the pack of six amiibo cards will be available again (or, in North America, for the first time) from 26 March.

Two new NookPhone apps are also being added: the Custom Design Pro Editor+ upgrade adds the ability to design umbrellas, uchiwa fans, flags, and standees, while also adding 50 more custom design slots and 50 more pro design slots; and the Custom Designs Portal app allows players to access the portal remotely, without needing to visit the Able Sisters shop.

New free and seasonal items are also being added, including:

• First-Anniversary Cake - free in the mail after upgrading
• Whoopie Cushion - 26 March to 1 April via Nook Shopping
• Prom-themed items and clothing - 1 to 30 April via Nook Shopping and Able Sisters
• Forsythia tree - 1 to 10 April via Nook Shopping
• Cool Globe - 15 to 22 April via Nook Shopping
• Nintendo Switch Lite - Nintendo Switch Online exclusive item via Nook Shopping

The update also brings some changes to Bunny Day, which this year takes place on 4 April, with eggs appearing on islands from 28 March. New to the event this year are new Bunny Day themed items that will be available to purchase from Nook's Cranny for the duration of the event.

The free update launches on 18 March.