Unable to Access DLC (Animal Crossing: New Horizons)

Complete these steps

Which downloadable content are you having trouble with?

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise

  After reaching a certain amount of progress in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, if you have access to the Happy Home Paradise DLC, you will receive a call from Tom Nook directing you to the airport. There, you'll meet Lottie and can go to work on the Happy Home Paradise islands. After designing vacation homes and facilities on these islands, you will discover new features and experiences. Follow these steps if you don't receive the call from Tom Nook or are unable to go to work from the airport.

  1. Restart the console.
     • How to restart a Nintendo Switch 2 console
       1. Press and hold the POWER Button for at least three seconds.
       2. Select Power OptionsOpciones de apagadoOptions d'alimentationOpções de desligar.
       3. Select Restart.
     • How to restart a Nintendo Switch console
       1. Press and hold the POWER Button for at least three seconds.
       2. Select Power OptionsOpciones de apagadoOptions d'alimentationOpções de desligar.
       3. Select Restart.
  2. Open Nintendo eShop and search for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise DLC to confirm that it displays as Downloaded (if obtained through a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership) or Purchased (if purchased separately).
     • "Download" and "Proceed to Purchase" options display

       This means you have access to the DLC through a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, but it isn't currently installed. Select Download to begin installing the DLC on your console.

     • Only "Proceed to Purchase" option displays

       This means your user does not own the DLC or have access to it through a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. If another user on your console purchased the DLC and you are unable to access it, they may have loaded the virtual game card on another system, or lent it to a family member. Check with any other people who use your console to confirm the situation.

       For more information on the different ways to access this DLC, please see How to Access Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise DLC Content.

  3. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
     • "To play the DLC, load the virtual game card on this system" message received

       This message appears when the DLC is downloaded on the console, the virtual game card for the DLC is not loaded, and you selected a user that doesn't have access to the DLC. If another user on the console purchased the DLC, they can load the virtual game card on this console.

       For more information on the different ways to access this DLC, please see How to Access Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise DLC Content.

     • "Unplayable downloadable content or update data was found" message received

       This message appears when the DLC is downloaded on the console, but the console isn't able to confirm the selected user's Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership status because it isn't connected to the internet.

       When the DLC is downloaded using a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, only users with an active membership can access the DLC. Connect the console to the internet to confirm your membership status when starting the software.

       If you purchased the DLC, this message can also appear when the virtual game card is not loaded and you are using the online license setting.

       For more information on the different ways to access this DLC, please see How to Access Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise DLC Content.

  4. On the title screen, check the upper right corner where the software version number is listed. Depending on your access to the DLC:
     • A house icon will appear next to the version number, filled in a solid color with a window.
     • A house icon will appear next to the version number, just an outline with a window.
     • No house icon will appear.
     • Note: If you are playing the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, there is a separate leaf icon that also appears next to the version number. This icon is unrelated to Happy Home Paradise.

  1. What do you see in the upper right corner of the title screen, next to the software version number?

     Solid-Color House Icon Outlined House Icon or No Icon

  2. This indicates the DLC is currently downloaded on your system, and that your user has access to the DLC. You should be able to travel to the DLC area by talking to Orville at the airport and selecting I want to go to work.

     If you're having trouble accessing specific features in the DLC, we recommend looking up a guide or walkthrough online.

     If the solid-color house icon does not appear on the title screen, then the DLC is not currently downloaded on the console, or the user does not have access to the DLC.

     Did you purchase the Happy Home Paradise DLC through the Nintendo eShop, or did you download it for free with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership?

     Purchased through Nintendo eShop (including download codes) Downloaded for free with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership

  3. The virtual game card for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise may not currently be loaded on the system, or the data for the DLC may not be downloaded on the system.

     1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu. Check whether the virtual game card for the DLC needs to be loaded on the system.
     2. If it is already loaded, delete the Animal Crossing: New Horizons software and DLC from the system, then redownload it. Save data is not lost when deleting the software. If you use a physical game card for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, this will delete the update data and you'll need to update the software again.
        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch 2
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, please see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software on Nintendo Switch 2.

        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
             
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software.

        • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
          1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
             1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
             2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
             3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
          2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
          4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
          5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
          7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
          8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

        • How to update game software
          1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
          2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
          3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

          For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

     3. Start the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game again and confirm that the solid-color house icon icon now appears on the title screen.

     Do you see the solid-color house icon icon?

     Yes No

     When downloaded as part of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, only Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can access the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise content. It is not treated as a virtual game card, nor accessed through the virtual game card menu. Follow these possible solutions until the solid-color house icon appears on the title screen when the game is opened:

     • Complete an internet connection test to confirm that your console is currently connected to the internet. An internet connection is required when launching the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game to verify the user is a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member.
     • Open Nintendo Switch Online from the HOME Menu, select your user, and confirm that you have an ongoing Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
     • Delete the Animal Crossing: New Horizons software and DLC from the system, then redownload it. Save data is not lost when deleting the software. If you use a physical game card for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, this will delete the update data and you'll need to update the software again.
       • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch 2
         1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
         2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
         3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
         4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

         For more information, please see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software on Nintendo Switch 2.

       • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch
         1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
            
         2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
         3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
         4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

         For more information, see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software.

       • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
         1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
            1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
            2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
            3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
         2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
         3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
         4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
         5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
         6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
         7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
         8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

         For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

       • How to redownload the DLC as a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member
         1. Select the Nintendo eShop icon on the HOME Menu to open the Nintendo eShop.
         2. Select the Nintendo Switch Online menu on the left.
         3. Under "Expansion Pack Content", select the icon for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise DLC.
         4. Under "Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Content", select Download.
       • How to update game software
         1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
         2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
         3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

         For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

     Do you see the solid-color house icon icon?

     Yes No

  4. This indicates the DLC is currently downloaded on your system, and that your user has access to the DLC. You should be able to travel to the DLC area by talking to Orville at the airport and selecting I want to go to work.

     If you're having trouble accessing specific features in the DLC, we recommend looking up a guide or walkthrough online.

     If you are still unable to access the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise content, please contact us for support.

     This indicates the DLC is currently downloaded on your system, and that your user has access to the DLC. You should be able to travel to the DLC area by talking to Orville at the airport and selecting I want to go to work.

     If you're having trouble accessing specific features in the DLC, we recommend looking up a guide or walkthrough online.

     If you are still unable to access the Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise content, please contact us for support.
• Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack
  1. Ensure the console has been updated to the latest system menu version.
     • How to check for the latest system update
       1. Select System Settings on the HOME Menu.
       2. Scroll down to the bottom of the System Settings menu and select System.
       3. Select System Update to start the system update process.
          • The system will check to see if an update is available.

       For more information, see How to Perform a System Update on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Perform a System Update on Nintendo Switch.

  2. Check for any available software updates for the game.
     • How to update game software
       1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
       2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
       3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

       For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

  3. Restart the console. Press the POWER Button for three seconds, and then select Power OptionsOpciones de apagadoOptions d'alimentationOpções de desligar, followed by Restart.
  4. Open Nintendo eShop with the user that purchased the upgrade pack.
  5. Search for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack to confirm that it displays as "Purchased".
     • A cost is displayed instead of "Purchased"

       This means the upgrade pack has not been purchased yet, or another user owns the upgrade pack. Follow our steps for how to upgrade software to Nintendo Switch 2 Edition to purchase and download it.

  6. Select the Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack from the search results.
  7. Select the Virtual Game Cards option on the right.
  8. Ensure the virtual game card for the upgrade pack is loaded on your system. If you have the Online License setting enabled, you can also download the upgrade pack separately.
     • How to load a virtual game card
       1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
       2. Select your user.
       3. If prompted, enter your user verification PIN or enter your Nintendo Account password.
       4. Select the game you want to load from the list of your virtual game cards.
       5. Select Load on This System Cargar en esta consola Charger sur cette console Carregar neste console .
       6. If not already downloaded, the icon for the game will appear on the HOME Menu and it will begin downloading. Once downloaded, all users on the console where the game is loaded can play the game.

       For more information, read the Virtual Game Card Guide.

     • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
       1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
          1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
          2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
          3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
       2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
       3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
       4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
       5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
       6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
       7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
       8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

       For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

  9. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
  10. The title screen should show the updated "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" logo, and there should be a leaf icon with a "2" next to the version number in the top right corner.

  If you are still unable to access the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition exclusive features, follow these additional steps.

  1. Are you using a physical or digital version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons?

     Physical Digital
  2. 1. Remove the game card.
        • How to remove a game card from a Nintendo Switch 2 console
          Important: Remove a game card only while on the HOME Menu, or when the console is powered off. If you have suspended a software title, make sure you have closed it before removing its game card.

          1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of your Nintendo Switch 2 console.
          2. Gently push down on the inserted game card until the card clicks.
          3. Release the game card and it will partially eject.
          4. Slide the game card out of the game card slot and close the cover.

          For more information, please see How to Insert/Remove Game Cards on Nintendo Switch 2

     2. Delete the software data (not the save data).
        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch 2
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, please see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software on Nintendo Switch 2.

     3. Reinsert the game card.
        • How to insert a game card into a Nintendo Switch 2 console
          1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of your Nintendo Switch 2 console.
          2. Hold the game card so that the label of the game card faces in the same direction as the Nintendo Switch 2 screen.
          3. Slide the game card into the game card slot until it clicks into place. If the game card seems difficult to insert, remove it and verify that it is facing in the correct direction.
          4. Once inserted, the software icon of the inserted game card will be displayed on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including about the different types of game cards that are supported with Nintendo Switch 2, please see How to Insert/Remove Game Cards on Nintendo Switch 2

     4. Update the software to the latest version.
        • How to update game software
          1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
          2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
          3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

          For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

     5. Redownload the upgrade pack.
        • How to redownload a game or DLC

          To redownload a digital game or DLC, load the virtual game card:

          1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          2. Select your user.
          3. If prompted, enter your user verification PIN or enter your Nintendo Account password.
          4. Select the item you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          5. Select Load on This System Cargar en esta consola Charger sur cette console Carregar neste console .
          6. The game (and any DLC for that game you have purchased) will begin downloading. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more details, including how to redownload games that are not virtual game cards, read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content.

        • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
          1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
             1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
             2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
             3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
          2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
          4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
          5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
          7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
          8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

     6. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
     7. The title screen should show the updated "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" logo, and there should be a leaf icon with a "2" next to the version number in the top right corner.

     Are you able to access the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition exclusive features?

     Yes No

     1. Delete the software data (not the save data).
        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch 2
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, please see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software on Nintendo Switch 2.

     2. Redownload the software.
        • How to redownload a game or DLC

          To redownload a digital game or DLC, load the virtual game card:

          1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          2. Select your user.
          3. If prompted, enter your user verification PIN or enter your Nintendo Account password.
          4. Select the item you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          5. Select Load on This System Cargar en esta consola Charger sur cette console Carregar neste console .
          6. The game (and any DLC for that game you have purchased) will begin downloading. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more details, including how to redownload games that are not virtual game cards, read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content.

        • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
          1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
             1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
             2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
             3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
          2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
          4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
          5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
          7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
          8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

     3. Make sure your game is updated to the latest version.
        • How to update game software
          1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
          2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
          3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

          For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

     4. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
     5. The title screen should show the updated "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" logo, and there should be a leaf icon with a "2" next to the version number in the top right corner.

     Are you able to access the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition exclusive features?

     Yes No

  3. If this information resolved your issue, you're all set!

     If you are still unable to access the content, please contact us for additional assistance.

     If this information resolved your issue, you're all set!

     If you are still unable to access the content, please contact us for additional assistance.

• Nintendo Switch Online member-exclusive items
  1. Ensure the console has been updated to the latest system menu version.
     • How to check for the latest system update
       1. Select System Settings on the HOME Menu.
       2. Scroll down to the bottom of the System Settings menu and select System.
       3. Select System Update to start the system update process.
          • The system will check to see if an update is available.

       For more information, see How to Perform a System Update on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Perform a System Update on Nintendo Switch.

  2. Check for any available software updates for the game.
     • How to update game software
       1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
       2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
       3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

       For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

  3. Restart the console. Press the POWER Button for three seconds, and then select Power OptionsOpciones de apagadoOptions d'alimentationOpções de desligar, followed by Restart.
  4. Open Nintendo eShop with the user that downloaded the DLC and has a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
  5. Select Nintendo Switch Online in the left menu to view available special offers.
  6. Scroll through the offers and find the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch Online membership items to confirm that the DLC displays as "Purchased".
     • "Free Download" is displayed instead of "Purchased"

       This means the bonus items have not been redeemed using this account. If you have a Nintendo Switch Online membership, select the item, then select Free Download twice to download. Start the software after the download completes to access the bonus items.

  7. Select the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch Online membership items from the special offers.
  8. Select the Virtual Game Cards option on the right.
  9. Ensure the virtual game card for the DLC is loaded on your system. If you have the Online License setting enabled, you can also download the DLC separately.
     • How to load a virtual game card
       1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
       2. Select your user.
       3. If prompted, enter your user verification PIN or enter your Nintendo Account password.
       4. Select the game you want to load from the list of your virtual game cards.
       5. Select Load on This System Cargar en esta consola Charger sur cette console Carregar neste console .
       6. If not already downloaded, the icon for the game will appear on the HOME Menu and it will begin downloading. Once downloaded, all users on the console where the game is loaded can play the game.

       For more information, read the Virtual Game Card Guide.

     • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
       1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
          1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
          2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
          3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
       2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
       3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
       4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
       5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
       6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
       7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
       8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

       For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

  10. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
  11. Check that you can order the items in-game:
      • Nintendo Switch Lite - players can order this item from Nook Shopping under the Daily Selection tab (provided they have enough Bells). The color of the item available for order will change on a rotating basis, updated daily.
      • Nook Inc. silk rug - players can redeem Nook Miles for the Nook Inc. silk rug item at Nook Stop in Resident Services (provided they have enough Nook Miles).

  If you are still unable to order the bonus items, follow these additional steps.

  1. Are you using a physical or digital version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons?

     Physical Digital
  2. 1. Remove the game card.
        • How to remove a game card from a Nintendo Switch 2 console
          Important: Remove a game card only while on the HOME Menu, or when the console is powered off. If you have suspended a software title, make sure you have closed it before removing its game card.

          1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of your Nintendo Switch 2 console.
          2. Gently push down on the inserted game card until the card clicks.
          3. Release the game card and it will partially eject.
          4. Slide the game card out of the game card slot and close the cover.

          For more information, please see How to Insert/Remove Game Cards on Nintendo Switch 2

        • How to remove a game card from Nintendo Switch

          Important: Remove a game card only while on the HOME Menu, or when the system is powered off. If you have suspended a software title, make sure you have closed it before removing its game card.

          1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of your Nintendo Switch console.
          2. Gently push down on the inserted game card until the card clicks.
          3. Release the game card and it will partially eject.
          4. Slide the game card out of the game card slot and close the cover.

          For more information, see How to Insert/Remove Game Cards.

     2. Delete the software data (not the save data).
        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch 2
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, please see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software on Nintendo Switch 2.

        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
             
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software.

     3. Reinsert the game card.
        • How to insert a game card into a Nintendo Switch 2 console
          1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of your Nintendo Switch 2 console.
          2. Hold the game card so that the label of the game card faces in the same direction as the Nintendo Switch 2 screen.
          3. Slide the game card into the game card slot until it clicks into place. If the game card seems difficult to insert, remove it and verify that it is facing in the correct direction.
          4. Once inserted, the software icon of the inserted game card will be displayed on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including about the different types of game cards that are supported with Nintendo Switch 2, please see How to Insert/Remove Game Cards on Nintendo Switch 2

        • How to insert a game card into a Nintendo Switch console
          1. Open the game card slot cover located on the top right side of your console.
          2. Hold the game card so that the label of the game card faces in the same direction as the Nintendo Switch screen.

             Important

             • Game cards for Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive software are not compatible with Nintendo Switch.
             • Game cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Nintendo Switch software can be inserted and played on Nintendo Switch. Only the Nintendo Switch version of the software will be played with none of the enhancements in the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
          3. Slide the game card into the game card slot until it clicks into place. If the game card seems difficult to insert, remove it and verify that it is facing in the correct direction.
          4. Once inserted, the software icon of the inserted game card will be displayed on the HOME Menu .

          For more information, see How to Insert/Remove Game Cards.

     4. Update the software to the latest version.
        • How to update game software
          1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
          2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
          3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

          For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

     5. Redownload the DLC.
        • How to redownload a game or DLC

          To redownload a digital game or DLC, load the virtual game card:

          1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          2. Select your user.
          3. If prompted, enter your user verification PIN or enter your Nintendo Account password.
          4. Select the item you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          5. Select Load on This System Cargar en esta consola Charger sur cette console Carregar neste console .
          6. The game (and any DLC for that game you have purchased) will begin downloading. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more details, including how to redownload games that are not virtual game cards, read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content.

        • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
          1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
             1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
             2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
             3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
          2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
          4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
          5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
          7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
          8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

     6. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
     7. Check that you can order the items in-game:
        • Nintendo Switch Lite - players can order this item from Nook Shopping under the Daily Selection tab (provided they have enough Bells). The color of the item available for order will change on a rotating basis, updated daily.
        • Nook Inc. silk rug - players can redeem Nook Miles for the Nook Inc. silk rug item at Nook Stop in Resident Services (provided they have enough Nook Miles).

     1. Delete the software data (not the save data).
        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch 2
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, please see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software on Nintendo Switch 2.

        • How to delete downloadable software on Nintendo Switch
          1. From the HOME Menu, select System Settings.
             
          2. Scroll down the options on the left and select Data Management.
          3. On the right-hand side select Manage Software, then select the software you would like to delete.
          4. Select Delete Software. The software and icon will be deleted from the HOME Menu. It can be redownloaded using the Nintendo Account that purchased it.

          For more information, see How to Manage or Delete Downloadable Software.

     2. Redownload the software.
        • How to redownload a game or DLC

          To redownload a digital game or DLC, load the virtual game card:

          1. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          2. Select your user.
          3. If prompted, enter your user verification PIN or enter your Nintendo Account password.
          4. Select the item you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          5. Select Load on This System Cargar en esta consola Charger sur cette console Carregar neste console .
          6. The game (and any DLC for that game you have purchased) will begin downloading. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more details, including how to redownload games that are not virtual game cards, read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content.

        • How to redownload software or DLC without loading the virtual game card
          1. Enable the "Online License" setting for your Nintendo Account:
             1. Select your user icon from the HOME Menu.
             2. Scroll down and select Online License SettingsAjustes de las licencias en líneaParamètres des licences en ligneConfigurações de licenças online.
             3. Update the " Use Online License Utilizar licencias en líneaUtiliser les licenses en ligne Usar licença online " setting to On Sí Oui Sim .
          2. Select Virtual Game Cards Tarjetas de juego virtuales Cartes de jeu virtuelles Cartões de jogo virtuais from the HOME Menu.
          3. Select the user that purchased the game or DLC.
          4. If you have enabled user verification, you may be prompted to confirm your identity by re-entering your password or entering a PIN.
          5. Select the game or DLC you want to redownload from the list of your virtual game cards.
          6. Select Options Opciones Options Opções .
          7. Select Download Data Descargar datos Télécharger les données Baixar dados .
          8. The game or DLC will begin downloading automatically. You can check the download status on the HOME Menu.

          For more information, including how to download software and DLC that is not a virtual game card, please read How to Redownload Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch Digital Content

     3. Make sure your game is updated to the latest version.
        • How to update game software
          1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
          2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
          3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

          For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.

     4. Start Animal Crossing: New Horizons from the HOME Menu and select the user that will be playing.
     5. Check that you can order the items in-game:
        • Nintendo Switch Lite - players can order this item from Nook Shopping under the Daily Selection tab (provided they have enough Bells). The color of the item available for order will change on a rotating basis, updated daily.
        • Nook Inc. silk rug - players can redeem Nook Miles for the Nook Inc. silk rug item at Nook Stop in Resident Services (provided they have enough Nook Miles).
• Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp-themed items

  Important: It is no longer possible to claim this My Nintendo reward since the discontinuation of the Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp app on November 28, 2024.

  After updating the software to version 3.0.0, these items can be ordered from Nook Shopping by all players.

  • How to update game software
    1. Ensure the console is connected to the Internet.
    2. From the HOME Menu, select (but do not start) the icon for the software you wish to update.
    3. Press the + Button or – Button on your controller, then select Software Update followed by Via the Internet.

    For more details, see How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch 2 or How to Update Software on Nintendo Switch.