Nintendo is no stranger to innovation. They have always pushed the envelope on what their games and gaming consoles can do. Some have been well-received, like the Wii. Others, like the Wii U, were met with less enthusiasm. However, even their failures have not stopped them from innovating. Everyone is waiting to hear what new things the company will try with the Nintendo Switch 2. One recent patent filing has caused some people to perk their ears up as it may hint toward an upcoming Animal Crossing feature.
Nintendo Patent Hints At Animal Crossing Feature
Animal Crossing is one of the most popular franchises from the Japanese studio. It reached new heights during the COVID-19 pandemic when players were searching for a way to connect with others virtually. The life-simulation game allows people to escape from their normal lives and enter a world of animal neighbors and friends. New Horizons was released five years ago, and with a new console around the corner, fans have started to speculate on whether a new installment of the franchise could be coming.
The patent that has stirred some rumor mills showcases a newspaper that is generated based on events that happen in a game. While Animal Crossing is not specifically mentioned, the picture provided in the patent (seen below) uses many ideas that gamers know and love from the series.
The part of the picture that is undeniably from the series is the price log. Longtime fans know that playing the Stalk Market to buy and sell turnips is essential to the game. While other games employ this mechanic, this one is the most well-known from Nintendo. However, this is all speculation. Companies file patents all the time. Some make it into games, and others don’t. It’s all about making sure another company can’t have the idea.
Matter Of “When” Not “If”
I think it isn’t a matter of if we are getting another Animal Crossing game, but when. This game has the rare ability to keep players lost in the game for hours. Some games can keep a player’s attention for an afternoon, but due to mental or physical fatigue, gamers have to take a break. It’s a game that is hard to quit simply because you are playing your daily life. For many, it becomes part of their routine, and the flexibility of the Switch and soon-to-be Switch 2 gives players the ability to play wherever and whenever.
Nintendo would be foolish not to release another installment, and all signs indicate they will. While innovation happens all the time, the studio has made a name on five or six solid franchises. Mario has seen tons of releases, and while every game is a little different, it’s still the famed plumber going to save Princess Peach. Does this patent mean anything or are fans so desperate for news about launch titles for the Switch 2 that they are grasping at straws?
