Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Timmy and Tommy's Island Question Explained

Since its worldwide release on March 20, 2020, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captivated millions of players on the Nintendo Switch, becoming a global phenomenon and a key title for both Nintendo and the Nintendo eShop.

Developed by Nintendo’s own EAD division, the life simulation game invites players to build their dream communities on a deserted island—an experience cherished for its charming characters and immersive freedom of play. Within the first moments of starting Animal Crossing: New Horizons, players encounter Timmy and Tommy, the twin raccoon shopkeepers central to the Nook Inc.

team.

Early in the onboarding process, the pair ask a memorable hypothetical: "If you could only bring one item with you to the deserted island, what would it be?" The choices are playful: a sleeping bag, a lamp, something to eat, or something to pass the time. Many newcomers and even veteran Animal Crossing fans speculated that this initial choice might shape their experience on the island, affect starting items, or unlock unique events.

Speculation circulated widely in online forums and among the Animal Crossing community.

However, Nintendo developers have since addressed these rumors in interviews and post-launch commentary.

According to statements from the development team, the question serves solely as a lighthearted introduction and does not influence any gameplay mechanics or island outcomes.

As the developers succinctly put it, the question is intended as a "simple joke" to set the game's whimsical tone, rather than a factor that alters the player's journey. This clarification aligns with Animal Crossing: New Horizons' broader design ethos, where gentle humor and a spirit of discovery encourage relaxed play.

The interaction with Timmy and Tommy is just one of many community-building features that have helped the game achieve celebrated milestones, including over 40 million copies sold worldwide as of early 2024, making it one of the best-selling Nintendo Switch games ever released. Animal Crossing: New Horizons continues to thrive through regular seasonal updates and steady engagement on the Nintendo eShop.

Player enthusiasm remains high, fueled by Nintendo Direct announcements and community-driven content.

For both longstanding fans and those new to the franchise, the playful approach of its iconic characters like Timmy and Tommy reinforces why Animal Crossing endures as a landmark series on the Nintendo Switch platform.

Animal Crossing Animal Crossing: New Horizons Timmy and Tommy developers New Horizons Nintendo Nintendo Switch eShop