Animal Crossing: New Horizons continues to thrill Nintendo Switch players with its vibrant updates, and the upcoming 3.0 patch is no exception.
To coincide with this significant release, Nintendo is spotlighting Animal Crossing through a cross-platform celebration: the 51st Tetris 99 Maximus Cup.
This exclusive event gives fans a compelling reason to return to both games, offering unique in-game rewards that honor the beloved life simulation franchise. The 51st Tetris 99 Maximus Cup will run from January 8, 2026, at 11:00 p.m.
PT through January 12, 2026, at 10:59 p.m.
PT.
Throughout the event, Tetris 99 players can earn a distinct Animal Crossing: New Horizons theme by accumulating 100 event points.
As with previous Maximus Cup events, participants earn points based on their performance in each match, making it accessible for both casual and competitive players.
A single game earns at least one point, while higher placements grant more — and a first-place finish secures the theme instantly.
Notably, this Maximus Cup will run an additional day compared to standard events, giving fans extra time to achieve their goals. According to details shared by Nintendo of America, the newly introduced theme draws inspiration from Cap’n, a prominent character featured in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 update.
The themed visuals prominently display Cap’n and his family, while the Tetriminos are uniquely redesigned to reflect iconic Animal Crossing items.
For example, the J-shaped pieces resemble fossils, adding a delightful touch for series fans.
In addition to new visuals, players can enjoy custom music and sound effects that celebrate the charm of Animal Crossing. The crossover event serves not just as a nod to Animal Crossing’s enduring popularity but also as a creative way to highlight fresh content arriving in the 3.0 update.
The patch introduces an island resort overseen by Cap’n, offering new activities and collectibles for players to explore.
Since its initial launch, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has become one of the Nintendo Switch’s unstoppable hits, selling millions of copies globally and spawning an active community.
Tetris 99, meanwhile, has kept Nintendo Switch Online players engaged with regular Maximus Cup events and a constant stream of new themes inspired by various franchises. With the 51st Maximus Cup, Nintendo once again demonstrates its commitment to uniting fans across its flagship titles.
Whether you’re decorating your island or stacking Tetriminos, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons theme in Tetris 99 provides a delightful opportunity to earn exclusive rewards while celebrating the vibrant world of Animal Crossing.
Players can download Tetris 99 for free with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and join the event starting January 8, 2026, on the Nintendo eShop.
To coincide with this significant release, Nintendo is spotlighting Animal Crossing through a cross-platform celebration: the 51st Tetris 99 Maximus Cup.
This exclusive event gives fans a compelling reason to return to both games, offering unique in-game rewards that honor the beloved life simulation franchise. The 51st Tetris 99 Maximus Cup will run from January 8, 2026, at 11:00 p.m.
PT through January 12, 2026, at 10:59 p.m.
PT.
Throughout the event, Tetris 99 players can earn a distinct Animal Crossing: New Horizons theme by accumulating 100 event points.
As with previous Maximus Cup events, participants earn points based on their performance in each match, making it accessible for both casual and competitive players.
A single game earns at least one point, while higher placements grant more — and a first-place finish secures the theme instantly.
Notably, this Maximus Cup will run an additional day compared to standard events, giving fans extra time to achieve their goals. According to details shared by Nintendo of America, the newly introduced theme draws inspiration from Cap’n, a prominent character featured in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 update.
The themed visuals prominently display Cap’n and his family, while the Tetriminos are uniquely redesigned to reflect iconic Animal Crossing items.
For example, the J-shaped pieces resemble fossils, adding a delightful touch for series fans.
In addition to new visuals, players can enjoy custom music and sound effects that celebrate the charm of Animal Crossing. The crossover event serves not just as a nod to Animal Crossing’s enduring popularity but also as a creative way to highlight fresh content arriving in the 3.0 update.
The patch introduces an island resort overseen by Cap’n, offering new activities and collectibles for players to explore.
Since its initial launch, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has become one of the Nintendo Switch’s unstoppable hits, selling millions of copies globally and spawning an active community.
Tetris 99, meanwhile, has kept Nintendo Switch Online players engaged with regular Maximus Cup events and a constant stream of new themes inspired by various franchises. With the 51st Maximus Cup, Nintendo once again demonstrates its commitment to uniting fans across its flagship titles.
Whether you’re decorating your island or stacking Tetriminos, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons theme in Tetris 99 provides a delightful opportunity to earn exclusive rewards while celebrating the vibrant world of Animal Crossing.
Players can download Tetris 99 for free with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and join the event starting January 8, 2026, on the Nintendo eShop.
