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    If You've Been Hesitant To Buy "Animal Crossing" Let Me Convince You Why It's Time

    Go on, let Tom Nook welcome you home with open arms.

    You've probably noticed pretty much everyone who owns a Nintendo Switch has only wanted to discuss one thing these days: Animal Crossing New Horizons.

    You might have started thinking to yourself, "Is it time *I* buy Animal Crossing? Is it worth it?" Let me assist you — the answer is yes. And I can tell you why.

    For starters, Animal Crossing New Horizons is *so* wholesome you won't be able to help but grin from ear-to-ear while playing it.

    It's an open-ended game where you get to do whatever you want to pass the time while achieving low-level, but satisfying, goals. For example, you'll find yourself endlessly paying off your housing loans to Tom Nook. After you pay off one, he'll offer the chance to upgrade your house for another large sum of bells (Animal Crossing money).

    But honestly, who cares? The way you pay off your loan is by fishing, catching bugs, and building items to sell to Tommy and Timmy (Nook's assistants of sorts). The fishing is SO soothing in this game — you're able to listen to peaceful ocean waves. It's delightful.

    It'll provide you with a way to get your creative juices flowing again as you customize your home and island to your liking.

    You can also customize your own outfits, giving you the chance to *finally* showcase your fashion designer skills. Tim Gunn, who?

    The game will help you keep track of your days — seriously. Right now (at least for me) the days seem to mush together, but each new day in Animal Crossing brings about something fresh! You'll find yourself looking forward to waking up each day to tune into Tom Nook's morning announcements.

    [Life Advice] Island nights are dark, so be careful while you're out on an evening stroll. I wouldn't want residents scaring each other, hm? Plus, there have been some reported ghost sightings...

    Animal Crossing New Horizons is special because it's played in real time. I find myself playing after work, so by the time I sign in the sun is setting in my game. If you play during the day you're likely to catch specific kinds of fish and bugs (honeybees and butterflies) but when you game at night you'll find *other* creatures lurking (moths, tarantulas, and ghosts).

    You'll also be able to celebrate holidays in the game! Right now there's a bunny named Zipper hopping throughout the island hiding eggs for you to collect. When you collect the eggs you can use them to build spring-themed items for your home/island! Do with that what you will.

    And, you'll be able to virtually hang out with your friends by visiting their islands! Invite them over to see how unique your house is or take a quick plane ride to see all they've created! Social distancing isn't so bad after all.

    fun animal crossing hang out w jake!

    IDK about you but, despite being an introvert and a homebody, I find myself missing my friends and family's company. Social distancing is hard, but thanks to Animal Crossing New Horizons (and a Nintendo Switch Online subscription) we can all feel a bit more connected to our loves one by paying them a virtual visit. One couple who had to postpone their upcoming wedding due to COVID-19 even hosted a ceremony in the game!

    Here's an explainer on how to connect with your friends in the game.

    If you're ready to join in on the fun you can get a digital download of Animal Crossing New Horizons from Nintendo or a physical copy from Best Buy for $59.99.

    Interested in other ways to entertain yourself from home? You might be interested in 16 Ways To Enjoy Your Favorite Sports That You Can't Watch Right Now or 19 Video Games That'll Probably Keep You Occupied All Weekend.