Animal Crossing: New Horizons has become a beloved game for millions of players worldwide. The game's charming characters, relaxing gameplay, and endless customization options make it an irresistible escape from the everyday grind. However, sometimes you may find yourself wanting to start fresh. Whether you’ve lost interest in your current island or are simply looking for a clean slate, resetting your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game can be a great way to reignite your passion for the game. But, how do you actually reset the game?
This article will guide you through the process of resetting your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game, outlining two effective methods for achieving this. We will explain the steps involved, the potential consequences, and the best approach for your particular situation. So, grab your tools, let’s dive in!
Method 1: Deleting Your Save Data
This is the most straightforward way to reset your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. It involves deleting your save data, effectively erasing all your progress and returning the game to its initial state.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Access the System Settings: From the Nintendo Switch home screen, navigate to System Settings.
- Locate Data Management: Scroll down and select Data Management.
- Choose Save Data: Select Save Data.
- Select Animal Crossing: New Horizons: You'll find a list of your saved games. Choose Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
- Choose Delete Save Data: Select Delete Save Data.
- Confirm Deletion: Confirm the deletion by selecting Delete.
Important Considerations:
- Irreversible: This method permanently deletes your save data. You will lose all your progress, including your island, villagers, items, and Nook Miles.
- Backup Your Save Data: If you want to keep a copy of your island, you can back up your save data to the cloud. You can access this option in System Settings -> Data Management -> Save Data Cloud.
- Reinstall the Game: After deleting your save data, you may need to reinstall the game from the Nintendo eShop.
Method 2: Starting a New Island
If you prefer to keep your existing save data but want a fresh start, creating a new island is the way to go. You can do this without deleting your existing island by creating a new profile on your Nintendo Switch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Launch Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Start the game as usual.
- Select "Start a New Island": Once the game loads, select "Start a New Island."
- Create a New Profile: You'll be prompted to create a new profile. This will allow you to have multiple saved games on your Nintendo Switch.
- Name Your New Island: Choose a new name for your island and customize your character's appearance.
- Play on Your New Island: You'll start a brand new island with a fresh start.
Important Considerations:
- No Progress Loss: Your original island and save data will remain untouched.
- Multiple Islands: You can switch between your islands at any time.
- Shared Saves: If you have multiple users on your Nintendo Switch, you can all create individual islands and play independently.
When to Reset Your Animal Crossing: New Horizons Game
Resetting your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game can be a refreshing experience, but it’s not always the best option. Carefully consider the reasons behind your desire to reset and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Here are some situations where resetting your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game may be a good idea:
- You’re Feeling Bored or Uninspired: If you’ve been playing for a while and your island feels stagnant, starting fresh can reignite your passion for the game.
- You Want to Try a New Island Theme: Maybe you’re feeling inspired to create a new island based on a different theme or aesthetic.
- You’re Starting a New Game Plus: If you’ve completed all the main objectives in your current island, you might want to start fresh with a new island.
- You Made a Mistake: Sometimes, you may accidentally make a mistake that you want to undo, like selling a valuable item or making changes to your island that you don’t like.
However, you should also consider the following:
- Time Commitment: Resetting your game means starting from scratch, which can be a significant time investment.
- Progress Loss: You’ll lose all your progress, including your island, villagers, and items.
- Emotional Attachment: You may have grown attached to your current island and its inhabitants, and resetting can feel like losing a part of yourself.
Tips for Resetting Your Animal Crossing: New Horizons Game
- Back Up Your Save Data: Before you reset your game, back up your save data to the cloud in case you change your mind or encounter any issues.
- Consider a Fresh Start: If you’re looking for a new experience, creating a new island is a great way to start fresh without losing your progress.
- Plan Your New Island: Before starting a new island, take some time to plan out your theme and layout. This will help you avoid any regrets later on.
- Don't Rush: Take your time exploring your new island and enjoy the fresh start. There’s no need to rush through the game.
FAQs:
Q: Can I reset my Animal Crossing: New Horizons game without deleting my save data?
A: Yes, you can create a new island without deleting your existing save data by creating a new profile on your Nintendo Switch.
Q: What happens to my villagers if I reset my game?
A: If you delete your save data, you will lose all your villagers. If you create a new island, your existing villagers will remain on your original island.
Q: Can I transfer my villagers to a new island?
A: Unfortunately, you cannot transfer your villagers to a new island. However, you can invite them to visit your new island.
Q: Will resetting my game affect my Nook Miles?
A: Yes, if you delete your save data, you will lose all your Nook Miles. Creating a new island will not affect your Nook Miles.
Q: How often can I reset my Animal Crossing: New Horizons game?
A: You can reset your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game as often as you like.
Conclusion:
Resetting your Animal Crossing: New Horizons game can be a great way to start fresh and enjoy the game in a new way. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. If you’re looking for a completely fresh start, deleting your save data is the way to go. If you want to keep your existing island but explore a new world, creating a new island is a great option. Regardless of which method you choose, remember to have fun and explore the endless possibilities of Animal Crossing: New Horizons!