When the Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 update was first announced over two months ago, many players immediately started thinking about how to prepare. Back then, we only had a rough idea of what was coming.
Since then, Nintendo has revealed a lot more details, and now that the update is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to do a final check and make sure you’re truly ready.
This guide is for players who like to be prepared. Let’s go over the most important things you can do now before the update arrives.
New Collaboration Details You Should Know First
One of the biggest reveals since the original preparation videos is the Zelda and Splatoon collaborations coming with the 3.0 update. These crossovers bring new items, and even new villagers, into Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
Originally, it wasn’t clear which amiibo figures would unlock which characters or items. Nintendo has now confirmed exactly how this works.
The good news? You don’t need every amiibo from each series.
If your main goal is to collect all the collaboration items, you only need one amiibo from the Zelda series and one from the Splatoon series. Scanning any amiibo from each franchise will unlock access to all of the related items.
However, if you want specific villagers to move onto your island, you’ll need to scan the right amiibo:
- Chulin – unlocked by scanning certain Zelda amiibo
- Minu – can be invited by scanning any Zelda amiibo
- CC – unlocked via Splatoon amiibo
- Viche – also unlocked via Splatoon amiibo
There’s also a special exception worth noting. If you happen to own the Big Man amiibo, it lets you choose whether you want CC or Viche to appear, making it one of the most flexible options available.
Is This Collaboration Limited-Time?
No. The Zelda and Splatoon collaborations are not limited-time events. You won’t miss out if you don’t prepare ahead of time.
That said, many players want to experience the new villagers and items immediately when the update launches. If that’s you, picking up the right amiibo beforehand will save you time and frustration later.
Prepare for the New Hotel Currency System
Another major addition in the 3.0 update is the hotel feature, which introduces an entirely new currency tied to decorating hotel rooms.
Here’s the important part:
You can only earn hotel currency once per day by decorating rooms.
That daily limit makes hotel currency more restrictive than many players expected. However, there’s a second method that gives you much more flexibility.
Crafting for Kapp’n = More Currency
You’ll also be able to earn hotel currency by crafting items for Kapp’n outside the hotel. While this method may still have some daily limits, it allows you to earn significantly more currency compared to room decorating alone.
Because of this, one of the smartest things you can do before the update launches is stockpile crafting materials.
Stock Up on Crafting Materials (But Don’t Craft Yet)
Crafting materials are about to become more important than ever.
Many players already struggle to keep enough basics like:
- Regular wood
- Stone
- Iron nuggets
Some of Kapp’n’s crafting requests require you to make multiple items at once, which can drain your storage quickly if you’re unprepared.
That said, it’s actually best not to craft too much right now.
The 3.0 update introduces:
- Bulk crafting
- The ability to craft using materials directly from storage
On top of that, there’s a strong chance we’ll see brand-new DIY recipes added with the update. Saving your materials now gives you maximum flexibility later.
In short: Gather materials now. Craft later.
You’ll Need More Bells Than You Think
One thing that surprised many players is just how expensive parts of the 3.0 update will be, especially storage upgrades.
Extra storage has been one of the most requested features in the game, and now that it’s finally here, it comes at a cost. These upgrades are expected to require millions of Bells.
If you want to unlock:
- Expanded storage
- Storage-related DIYs like the storage shed or ABD
You’ll want to have a very healthy Bell balance ready.
Ways to Earn Bells Before the Update
If you’re currently low on Bells, you still have plenty of options:
- Play the stalk market and sell turnips
- Go diving for sea creatures
- Sell fruit, crops, or duplicate items
- Clear out storage and sell items you no longer need
There’s no single “best” method, just pick what fits your playstyle.
Don’t Forget About Nook Miles
While nothing has been officially confirmed, nearly every major update has added new Nook Miles rewards.
Because of that, it’s a good idea to avoid spending all your Nook Miles right now. Having a reserve gives you more freedom if new items, features, or travel options appear in the Nook Miles shop.
Nintendo Switch Online Is Required for Some Features
This has now been fully confirmed: You must have Nintendo Switch Online to access certain 3.0 features.
This includes:
- Slumber Islands
- Special minigames tied to Nintendo consoles
If your subscription has expired, or if you’ve never had one, you may want to plan ahead. Nintendo also offers free trials, which you can redeem strategically when the update drops to test out these features without committing right away.
That said, Nintendo Switch Online is not mandatory for enjoying the update as a whole. It simply unlocks optional content.
Final Advice: Play Your Way
The most important thing to remember before the 3.0 update launches is this: You don’t need to do everything.
Preparation should feel exciting, not stressful.
Some players love gathering materials, hoarding Bells, and planning every detail ahead of time. Others prefer jumping in blind and discovering things naturally as they play.
Both approaches are completely valid.
Do what makes the game fun for you. Whether that means preparing extensively or doing nothing at all, the update will still be there when it launche, and it’s exciting no matter how you experience it.
With the release just around the corner, it’s a great time to enjoy the anticipation and get ready in whatever way feels right.
