If you had told me where we’d be as a society (on a worldwide scale) at the end of last year I’d have responded with an overtly positive but extremely naive ‘no we’ll be fine’, But look where we are now. We can’t go out, we can’t see loved ones and friends, we can’t live as we once did. Life is very different and looks to be that way for the forseeable future. We needed a distraction and wholesome shining beacon of light in the darkness that is the global pandemic. That distraction came courtesy of Nintendo in the form of Animal Crossing New Horizons.
My love affair with Animal Crossing started with New Leaf, but makes me wish it had started sooner. Usually games I play involve strategy, fighting, zombies and all things that get the adrenaline pumping but being in lockdown meant that I didn’t want to play games with dark content or violence. The world felt like a scary enough place, I just lost all desire to play my usual games. Luckily the day before my birthday Animal Crossing was released and it was the game I knew, loved and NEEDED to get me through quarantine.
The ability to play with others even whilst social distancing, the leisurely pace of play and new customisation features allow players to become fully immersed in the deserted Island experience like never before. And I have become not only fully immersed but fully obsessed. I’ve played with others around the world, traded goods, created an island paradise from scratch, took a risk on the stalk market and fallen in love with villagers (some notably more than others, hi Aurora).
I didn’t realise how much this game would become a distraction from the world’s events and from being quarantined for an extended period of time (thanks chronic conditions), but it has become the beacon of light I and so many others needed. The community of players I’ve met so far have been friendly, helpful and genuinely lovely people. There’s a variety of active discords, Facebook groups and even WhatsApp groups to join to trade craft and even just water each others flowers. Another notable outside group is Nookazon for those hard to find goods, but occasionally the prices can be a little on the high side so perhaps cataloging parties will be a better option for trading goods and getting them added to the Nook shopping app.
I could rave about my love for Animal Crossing for hours, but the best way to understand the calming ability of such a seemingly simple game is to get involved. Who knew a game could help manage the overwhelming anxiety that a global pandemic brings? I certainly didn’t expect it to have such a profound effect but I’m beyond grateful it has. It’s the escapism I, and many others needed right now.
Truly, thanks Nintendo for this wholesome addition to the Animal Crossing franchise but pleeeeeaaaasssseeee Nintendo, please add some more worktops and surfaces!!!
If anyone is interested in visiting my island then please add me on the switch. I adore visiting other’s islands and I’m always looking for buddies to trade, fish and water with.
Until next time, stay safe, stay at home (if you can) and stay well.
Take care x
Konnichiwa Kitty 