Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been a critically acclaimed return from the series, with many players taking the time to socialize and build their island. However, the game that has received praise for bringing players together during self-isolation periods, is now facing issues because of the coronavirus pandemic. The director of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Aya Kyogoku, has not concretely stated that further updates will not come to the game but has also not given too much hope for fans.
It had been eight years since the last main title of the Animal Crossing series, and the extremely positive reviews for New Horizons suggest that fans were eager to be reintroduced to the unique gameplay of the game that focuses on helping villagers and developing an area. Naturally, fans will want to see the game deliver new content as they become familiar with the title. Yet, it seems that players may have to wait longer than anticipated for updates because of the impact the coronavirus is having on Nintendo.
There have been plenty of rumors about games being delayed because of the coronavirus, and it now seems that updates to Animal Crossing: New Horizons may be impacted. The director of the title stated in response to possible delays, "We’re not sure if we have to shift anything, but I think we have to be flexible." Kyogoku added that " In terms of the development team, I do have to think about their health and well-being as well." While some fans may be disappointed, this is a completely understandable approach as many people are increasingly suffering from the coronavirus and its repercussions more broadly.
Despite the possibility of delayed updates, there is plenty of content in Animal Crossing: New Horizons and fans are also creating their own. The game has already been the inspiration for hilarious memes and it seems that content from fans will continue to come. It will be interesting to see how the community keeps a game with a wide range of possibilities entertaining if updates are postponed.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been a welcome return from the unique franchise and fans appear to be enjoying the new content. Understandably, a global pandemic will impact updates and with a host of other games facing similar issues, many players will understand why developers are taking precautions to protect their staff.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available now for Nintendo Switch.
Source: Nintendo Life