Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains one of Nintendo's most enduring hits on the Nintendo Switch.
Developed by Nintendo EPD and released worldwide on March 20, 2020, the life-simulation title centers on building and customizing a deserted island getaway.
One of the earliest quality-of-life upgrades players should pursue is the Tool Ring — a small but powerful convenience that speeds up access to frequently used tools.
Why unlock the Tool Ring early
Unlocking the Tool Ring early is recommended because it lets players swap between tools instantly via a radial menu, reducing the need to open their pocket inventory repeatedly.
In practical terms, the Tool Ring streamlines common tasks such as gardening, fishing, and terraforming, helping players maintain momentum while exploring their island.
How to get the Tool Ring (step by step)
- Upgrade your tent to your first house: After you complete the initial housing upgrade, Tom Nook explains that homeowners receive an automatic upgrade to the Nook Mileage Program.
This unlocks access to Nook Miles+ and additional ways to earn Nook Miles.
- Visit the Nook Stop: The Nook Stop terminal inside Resident Services lets you redeem Nook Miles for rewards.
Once you have access to Nook Miles+, more reward items appear on the Nook Stop menu.
- Redeem the Tool Ring reward: Look for the reward titled "It is the Tool Ring: It’s Essential!" and redeem it for 800 Nook Miles.
The Nook Stop will print out the instructions after you redeem the item, and you can use the Tool Ring immediately.
How to use the Tool Ring
Press Up on the directional pad to bring up the radial Tool Ring.
Any tools you have favourited can be assigned to and accessed through this menu; you can mark favourites using the left stick so they appear in the ring.
The Tool Ring provides a fast way to cycle tools without opening your full inventory, making everyday island life smoother.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available exclusively on Nintendo Switch worldwide.
The game’s integration of Nook Miles and the Nook Stop remains a core progression mechanic, and the Tool Ring is a readily attainable reward that significantly improves in-game convenience.
Developed by Nintendo EPD and released worldwide on March 20, 2020, the life-simulation title centers on building and customizing a deserted island getaway.
One of the earliest quality-of-life upgrades players should pursue is the Tool Ring — a small but powerful convenience that speeds up access to frequently used tools.
Why unlock the Tool Ring early
Unlocking the Tool Ring early is recommended because it lets players swap between tools instantly via a radial menu, reducing the need to open their pocket inventory repeatedly.
In practical terms, the Tool Ring streamlines common tasks such as gardening, fishing, and terraforming, helping players maintain momentum while exploring their island.
How to get the Tool Ring (step by step)
- Upgrade your tent to your first house: After you complete the initial housing upgrade, Tom Nook explains that homeowners receive an automatic upgrade to the Nook Mileage Program.
This unlocks access to Nook Miles+ and additional ways to earn Nook Miles.
- Visit the Nook Stop: The Nook Stop terminal inside Resident Services lets you redeem Nook Miles for rewards.
Once you have access to Nook Miles+, more reward items appear on the Nook Stop menu.
- Redeem the Tool Ring reward: Look for the reward titled "It is the Tool Ring: It’s Essential!" and redeem it for 800 Nook Miles.
The Nook Stop will print out the instructions after you redeem the item, and you can use the Tool Ring immediately.
How to use the Tool Ring
Press Up on the directional pad to bring up the radial Tool Ring.
Any tools you have favourited can be assigned to and accessed through this menu; you can mark favourites using the left stick so they appear in the ring.
The Tool Ring provides a fast way to cycle tools without opening your full inventory, making everyday island life smoother.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available exclusively on Nintendo Switch worldwide.
The game’s integration of Nook Miles and the Nook Stop remains a core progression mechanic, and the Tool Ring is a readily attainable reward that significantly improves in-game convenience.
