Summary
Since its launch in 2001, theAnimal Crossingfranchise has become a safe space for creativity, inspiring players to express themselves through unique patterns and designs. However, despite its imaginative player base, the game still lacks certain features desired by theAnimal Crossingcommunity. One such example is the long-awaited addition of interactive pets, a concept in which various players have expressed a strong interest.
While seemingly worlds apart, theNBA 2Kfranchise could hold a unique solution to this ever-present desire. Specifically, Nintendo could draw inspiration from a special feature in the basketball simulation series. This could be agame-changer for the nextAnimal Crossinggameif done well.
NBA 2K Is Hiding a Great Feature For Animal Crossing
Animal Crossing Could Benefit From Face-Scanning Technology
In 2014,NBA 2K15introduced face-scanning technology to the series. Though some of theseface-scans created monstrous designs, the technology that allows players to import their likeness into the game has significantly improved over the years. For people who love personalizing their gaming experiences, this feature should be of interest.
While the latestAnimal Crossinggame,New Horizons, offered plushies and fish tanks as pet alternatives, some players opted to display their captured creatures, like snapping turtles, as makeshift pets. Unfortunately, there’s only so much the community can do with plushies and animal displays that they can’t truly interact with. Players were able to get incredibly creative with thepuppy plushies inNew Horizons, but there’s an obvious solution to this unnecessary workaround.
Animal Crossing Should Let Players Face-Scan Their Pets Into the Game
Though unexpected, the face-scanning mechanic fromNBA 2Kcould offer a novel approach topet implementation withinAnimal Crossing. Integrating this technology into the next installment of the franchise could allow players to scan their real-life pets, creating a personalized and potentially groundbreaking addition to the game. Doing so would not only fulfill that long-standing desire within the player base, but it would also:
The unique interactions and emotional connections players could build with a pet based on their real-life ones could be a major innovation. After all, theAnimal Crossingcommunity’s desire to recreate their pets in-game is already evident, as players have already gone to the lengths ofcreating custom amiibo cardsto represent their furry friends. A future game with this level of personalization would only serve to further deepen the emotional connection players feel with theirAnimal Crossingworld, making it an even more cozy and satisfying experience.
The unique interactions and emotional connections players could build with a pet based on their real-life ones could be a major innovation.
Fortunately, introducing a pet integration feature through the existing Nook Link app seems like a possible solution. This approach would mirrorNBA 2K’s initial face-scanning implementation, where players needed to download a companion app first. By capitalizing on the established Nook Link app, Nintendo could potentially streamline pet integration without requiring its community to download anything else. The possibility is undoubtedly an intriguing concept for futureAnimal Crossinggames and one that would likely resonate with a large segment of the community if Nintendo decided to travel this path.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
WHERE TO PLAY
Escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create, and customize in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. Your island getaway has a wealth of natural resources that can be used to craft everything from tools to creature comforts. You can hunt down insects at the crack of dawn, decorate your paradise throughout the day, or enjoy sunset on the beach while fishing in the ocean. The time of day and season match real life, so each day on your island is a chance to check in and find new surprises all year round.Show off your island utopia to family and friends—or pack your bags and visit theirs. Whether playing online** or with others beside you***, island living is even better when you can share it. Even without hopping on a flight, you’ll meet a cast of charming animal residents bursting with personality. Friendly faces like Tom Nook and Isabelle will lend their services and happily help you grow your budding community. Escape to your island getaway—however, whenever, and wherever you want.
