Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0.0 Update Adds Zelda and Splatoon amiibo Villagers on Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has officially revealed the comprehensive lineup of Zelda and Splatoon amiibo that will unlock new villagers in Animal Crossing: New Horizons with the release of the anticipated version 3.0.0 update.

This announcement comes ahead of the major update and the debut of Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, both slated for launch on January 15, 2026, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch and the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2 platform. Animal Crossing: New Horizons, developed by Nintendo EPD, has become a defining title for the Nintendo Switch since its original release in March 2020.

With over 40 million units sold globally, it stands as one of the highest-selling games in Nintendo’s storied history.

The game's ongoing support, through frequent updates and cross-promotions leveraging the Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Direct presentations, continues to endear it to players. The highly-anticipated version 3.0.0 update represents a significant expansion.

Among its headline features is the ability to unlock new in-game villagers by scanning select Zelda and Splatoon amiibo figures and cards.

These additions meld iconic franchises, bringing characters familiar to fans of The Legend of Zelda and Splatoon directly into the relaxing world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. When players scan Zelda amiibo, they can now welcome villagers such as Tulin and Mineru to their islands.

The full Zelda amiibo compatibility covers a vast array of figures, with popular characters like Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, Toon Link, Sheik, Young Link, Wolf Link, Guardian, Daruk, Urbosa, Mipha, Revali, Yunobo, Sidon, Riju, and even the latest figures from The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

Each amiibo offers unique unlocks: for instance, scanning the Link (Smash Bros.) amiibo allows Tulin to join, while Zelda (Smash Bros.), Toon Link, Ganondorf, and others unlock Mineru.

Amiibo from multiple Zelda titles, including Ocarina of Time, Majora’s Mask, Twilight Princess, Skyward Sword, Breath of the Wild, and Tears of the Kingdom, are all supported. Splatoon fans will also find a robust list of supported amiibo.

By scanning specific Splatoon amiibo—such as Inkling Girl, Inkling Boy, various Inkling Squids, Callie, Marie, Pearl, Marina, Octoling characters, Shiver, Frye, Big Man, and additional figures—players can unlock the villagers Cece and Viche.

For example, the Callie (Splatoon) amiibo brings Cece to town, while Inkling Girl and Inkling Boy figures typically unlock Viche.

Several characters from the Splatoon: Side Order and Alterna series are also included, maximizing choices for dedicated collectors. Nintendo’s efforts to integrate more amiibo cross-functionality highlight its commitment to fan engagement across flagship franchises.

A Nintendo spokesperson, translating the core message in clear terms for fans, noted that the integration of Zelda and Splatoon characters is part of the company's ongoing strategy to "celebrate beloved Nintendo worlds and further personalize the Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience." Animal Crossing: New Horizons version 3.0.0 update and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will be available worldwide on January 15, 2026.

Players can access the update via the Nintendo eShop on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 platforms.

With the newly announced amiibo compatibility and continued development support, Animal Crossing: New Horizons maintains its place at the forefront of Nintendo’s acclaimed lineup, offering fresh ways for players to explore and personalize their islands.

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