As we emerge from two years of pandemic restrictions, many gamers are still immersed in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, connecting with friends on virtual islands filled with charming animal residents. The game's intuitive multiplayer lets you host up to seven guests, making it perfect for real-life events like birthdays or even weddings.
Drawing from my own hosting experiences, this guide shares proven tips to make your Animal Crossing party seamless and fun. We'll cover pre-party prep, in-game mechanics, and creative activities to wow your visitors.
While Discord invites work, nothing beats authenticity like sending invites through Dodo Airlines' in-game mail. Head to the terminal, select stationery from the rack right of Orville's desk, and attach a gift if desired. Pro tip: You can only mail players whose islands you've visited or vice versa.
Tidy up by storing, selling, or placing loose items – don't just drop them, as guests can pick them up. A clutter-free island sets a welcoming tone and prevents mishaps.
Logins can lag, so open early. Talk to Orville at Dodo Airlines for local or online access (Nintendo Switch Online required for online). Choose friends list, Best Friends app, or share the Dodo code. Early openings stagger arrivals, avoiding cutscene delays that halt gameplay for a minute each time.
Kick off with a showcase of your customized island – a highlight of New Horizons. Mine features clean grids and lines; a friend's has themed neighborhoods. Highlight your unique designs to spark envy and conversation.
Go beyond emotes: Press R for the chat window, type via controller, touchscreen, or the Switch Online app's keyboard/voice (voice via phone speakers only). Set up the app from the title screen settings first.
Share standout clothes or decor – with so many items, you'll likely gift something new. Elevate it by wrapping with paper from Nook's Cranny.
Compare collections of fish, bugs, and fossils, even if layouts match across islands.
Try timed fishing/bug-catching races from Resident Services plaza or island-wide scavenger hunts (wrap buried items; add Best Friends for digging/tools – trust is key!).
For fun, play "musical stumps" (@samirows on Twitter): Circle stumps (one fewer than players), music stops, claim a seat, eliminate until one wins.
Or net-bonking arena battles in the plaza: Hit to eliminate, last standing wins (bell for start).
End with NookPhone camera: Pose with reactions, use filters, zoom/pan for epic shots at a scenic spot.
These ideas, tested on my island during months apart from friends, create lasting memories. Host your own!
Updated February 24, 2022, 11:40 AM ET: Originally published April 8, 2020, with minor updates and new captions.
