Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ Save Data Backup Feature Releases Within 2020

Nintendo has released more info on Animal Crossing: New Horizons‘ planned save backup feature, which was announced last month via the Japanese website. The FAQs also discuss how multiplayer can be achieved on the Nintendo Switch Lite, despite its lack of Docked mode. [Thanks, Dengeki Online!]

Here are the highlights:

Is there a way to create multiple islands?

Even if you’re using multiple copies of the same software, you are only able to create one island per console. If you wish to build up another island, you’ll need a different console.

As the island save data is saved directly on the Nintendo Switch console, even if you use both the physical and digital versions of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, there will only be one island.

Is there a way to transfer save data onto another console?

We are currently considering a function to move user and save data to other consoles that is uniquely for the software. The function is planned to be implemented within the year.

What if I lose my save data?

Animal Crossing: New Horizons does not support Nintendo Switch Online’s Save Data Cloud Backup feature. However, we’re currently considering a function for Nintendo Switch Online members to backup save data, uniquely for the software, in case one’s Nintendo Switch console itself malfunctions or is lost. The function is planned to be implemented within the year.

Is the game playable on the Nintendo Switch Lite?

This title can be played on the Nintendo Switch Lite. However, in order for multiple residents to play together in Party Mode on a Nintendo Switch Lite console, Joy-Cons and/or Pro Controllers suitable for the amount of players joining in must be connected to the Nintendo Switch Lite.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons will release for the Nintendo Switch on March 20, 2020.