
Tom Nook, a character that’s become synonymous with anyone who’s had a taste of Animal Crossing, is a familiar figure to many fans. This cunning entrepreneur has been collecting Bells since the initial installment of Animal Crossing, and he’s more than just a symbol – he’s a key part of the game, right alongside Isabelle, the ever-cheerful villager assistant. However, how much do you really know about this shrewd character who seems to have a knack for getting his hands on all those Bells you work so hard to earn?
Ever since the debut of the first “Animal Crossing” game, Tom Nook has been managing numerous businesses. From being a shop owner to assisting players in personalizing their homes, he recently expanded his ventures into the real estate sector, acting as your mortgage holder in “New Horizons”. While many fans are familiar with his basic background, the story of Tom Nook runs much deeper than one might assume. Here are some lesser-known facts about this character, even for seasoned “Animal Crossing” players:
1. Tom Nook’s real name is Tomu Nigatuke (トム にがつけ) in Japanese.
2. Before joining the Animal Crossing world, Tom Nook was a resident of K.K. Slider’s hometown, called Kappa City.
3. Tom Nook initially started his business with only 500 Bells (the in-game currency), which he used to buy the store that would become Nook’s Cranny.
4. Tom Nook is married to a raccoon named Goldie, and together they have a son called Toby.
5. In earlier games, Tom Nook was shown living in a tent, but in “New Horizons”, he moves into a more permanent home called the Nook’s Homes.
3. He’s Not Actually a Racoon

In North America, the “Animal Crossing” series depicts Tom Nook as a raccoon. However, this character wasn’t initially conceived as a raccoon. Instead, Tom Nook is actually modeled after a tanuki, which is a type of raccoon-like creature native to Japan. Tanukis have a more brownish tone, similar to the color of Tom Nook, unlike the greyish North American raccoons.
In Japan, Tom Nook’s name, Tanukichi, symbolizes his tanuki character. While the Westernized name “Tom Nook” might seem more like a raccoon, it actually maintains a subtle connection to its original meaning, serving as a nod to his authentic tanuki roots.
2. He’s Got a Second Life in Fighting Games

A large number of dedicated “Animal Crossing” enthusiasts have invested numerous hours into the games, yet they may not be avid gamers across the board. When they do play other games, they typically opt for comfortably themed ones such as “Disney Dreamlight Valley” or “The Sims 4”. As a result, it’s quite possible that die-hard fans of Tom Nook are unaware of his alternate life as a recurring figure in Nintendo’s fighting series, Super Smash Bros.
Tom Nook has been a recurring character in the Super Smash Bros. series over the years, taking on multiple roles. Initially, he was introduced as a trophy you could win in Super Smash Bros. Melee. Later, he continued his trophy role in Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Super Smash Bros. 3DS. However, his appearances don’t end there. Nook has also been seen in the background of various battle stages and even performs an assist role by constructing a house to temporarily slow down opponents, demonstrating that combat games can indeed have a comforting touch.
1. He Once (Unfairly) Ranked as a Best Nintendo Villain

In the world of “Animal Crossing”, Tom Nook is a character that stands out, yet he’s not without his share of debate. His role as a capitalist, often pushing players towards accumulating debt, has led some to view him as the series’ antagonist. Interestingly, the March 2003 issue of Nintendo Power even named him as the top new villain when the game was initially released.
It’s me, a passionate fan here, and I’ve been pondering about Nook’s character. Despite his stern demeanor, he grants a substantial loan for our homes in New Horizons without any interest. And let’s not forget, in Happy Home Designer, it’s disclosed that Nook generously donates a sizable portion of his riches to charitable causes. Could it be possible that the image of him as the franchise’s antagonist isn’t as warranted as we fans believe?
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2025-09-02 23:18