5 Best Games to Play While Waiting for the Next Animal Crossing

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Five years have passed since “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” was released on the Nintendo Switch, and it’s now one of the console’s top-selling games. Despite players having plenty left to explore in the game, there’s been a lot of anticipation for a new Animal Crossing title. It seems we might learn more about this upcoming release within the next few months, but until then, gamers are on the lookout for other ways to pass the time!

While nothing quite matches the charm of Animal Crossing, there are numerous delightful games that can provide a similar warm and fuzzy feeling. If you’re in the mood for designing, gifting, or socializing with adorable and eccentric creatures, these games are perfect for fans of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. What makes this list even more appealing is that every game is compatible with your trusty Nintendo Switch console.

5. Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time

Price: $59.99 ($62.58 for Switch 2 Version)

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Heed this, dear avid gamers! Do take note that Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time does incorporate combat elements. However, it’s worth mentioning that it boasts charming, cartoon-style graphics and a system for accepting tasks that resonates strongly with the Animal Crossing series. If you’re seeking a game where you can gradually develop a community, make new friends, and watch it grow, Fantasy Life i promises just that!

This game moves its story along swiftly, much like how an Animal Crossing game doesn’t lack in plot development. Yet, it also offers ample opportunities for engaging in side missions, construction projects, and design tasks. This blend has made it quite appealing to fans who enjoy the charm of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Moreover, there’s a multiplayer cooperative mode that maintains the same online connectivity.

4. Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar

Price: $49.99

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2

The Story of Seasons series represents the contemporary farming simulations developed by the original pioneers behind Harvest Moon. Recently, a revamped version of Harvest Moon: Grand Bazaar, titled Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, has been released. This latest addition offers an engaging farming experience that will captivate players. While primarily a farming simulation game, it also includes a friendship system, which is sure to delight Animal Crossing enthusiasts. Furthermore, the bazaar selling aspect allows you to embody the role of the friendly merchant Tom Nook from Animal Crossing (while maintaining an excellent reputation).

The Grand Bazaar shares a casual, leisurely playstyle akin to Animal Crossing: New Horizons, where there’s no pressure for combat or fast reactions. Instead, you engage in activities like farming, fishing, creating items, and developing your Zephyr Town into an outstanding village.

3. Littlewood

Price: $14.99

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch

This charming life simulation game often finds its way onto lists of comforting game suggestions, and rightly so. Blending elements of farming simulation and city building in an adorable pixelated setting, _Littlewood_ is a cherished indie gem teeming with crafting opportunities, hobbies, and gentle RPG aspects.

In the game Littlewood, although the art style may differ significantly from Animal Crossing, the mechanics of building your city and completing tasks for townsfolk are distinctly reminiscent of Animal Crossing. This versatile game offers something for everyone due to its diverse gameplay features, making it an enjoyable alternative as you anticipate more updates on Animal Crossing.

2. Disney Dreamlight Valley

Price: $39.99

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S

From my perspective, Disney Dreamlight Valley feels remarkably akin to Animal Crossing. It shares the real-time gameplay where days pass as they would in the real world, and you’re often helping out adorable and eccentric villagers. Plus, you get to customize and embellish your town just how you like it. And let’s not forget the captivating presence of beloved Disney characters in this magical setting.

In Disney Dreamlight Valley, you’ll find yourself immersed in a charming game that thrives on the enjoyment of daily tasks. Just like Scrooge McDuck consistently pursues coins, and Tom Nook is always eager for Bells, you’ll have fun as you work to clear your debts.

1. Hello Kitty Island Adventure

Price: $39.99

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, iOS

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the enchanting world of Hello Kitty Island Adventure bears a striking resemblance to the captivating atmosphere of Animal Crossing. With its adorable 3D visuals and an endearing ensemble of characters who never cease to ask for favors, it’s reminiscent of the beloved game. However, what sets this adventure apart is that these villagers are none other than the cherished Sanrio characters!

In Hello Kitty Island Adventure, the gameplay revolves around a continuous cycle where you complete daily chores, assignments, and activities in real-time. Similar to designing a campsite in Pocket Camp’s Animal Crossing, you customize different visitor cabins to meet specific requests. Essentially, this game offers an experience quite similar to playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons, serving as a delightful alternative while we anticipate the next installment in the series.

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2025-09-03 22:24