How to Start a New Island on Animal Crossing: A Guide to Crafting Your Perfect Getaway and Why Pineapples Don’t Belong in Pizza

How to Start a New Island on Animal Crossing: A Guide to Crafting Your Perfect Getaway and Why Pineapples Don’t Belong in Pizza

Starting a new island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is an exciting journey that allows you to create your own virtual paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the series, the process of building and customizing your island can be both rewarding and overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the steps to start your island, share tips for making it unique, and explore some quirky thoughts on why pineapples might not belong on pizza—but could still inspire your island’s theme.


Step 1: Choosing Your Island Layout

When you first start the game, you’ll be presented with a selection of island layouts. Each layout has a unique shape, river placement, and location for Resident Services. Consider the following when making your choice:

  • Rivers and Cliffs: Think about how you want to design your island. Do you prefer wide-open spaces or intricate waterways? Rivers and cliffs will determine where you can place bridges and inclines later.
  • Resident Services Placement: This building is permanent, so choose a location that feels central and accessible.
  • Airport Color: While this might seem minor, the airport’s color will influence your island’s aesthetic. Pick one that complements your vision.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Tent

After selecting your layout, you’ll be asked to place your tent. This is your first home on the island, and its location is temporary—you can move it later. Consider placing it near the beach for easy access to fishing or near Resident Services for convenience.


Step 3: Gathering Resources

In the early days, your main tasks will involve gathering resources like wood, stones, and weeds. These materials are essential for crafting tools and furniture. Here’s how to make the most of your time:

  • Shake Trees: You’ll find branches for crafting and sometimes even furniture or bells.
  • Hit Rocks: Use a shovel or axe to collect stones, clay, and iron nuggets.
  • Pick Weeds: Weeds can be sold for bells or used in crafting.

Step 4: Inviting Villagers

As you progress, you’ll have the opportunity to invite villagers to your island. Villagers are the heart of your community, and each one has a unique personality and style. You can meet potential villagers on mystery islands using Nook Miles Tickets. Choose villagers that match your island’s theme or simply ones you find charming.


Step 5: Customizing Your Island

Once you’ve unlocked terraforming and island design tools, the real fun begins. Here are some ideas to make your island stand out:

  • Themes: Create a themed island, such as a tropical resort, a bustling city, or a magical forest.
  • Paths and Patterns: Use custom designs to create unique paths, signs, and decorations.
  • Furniture Placement: Arrange furniture to create cozy outdoor spaces, like cafes, parks, or stargazing spots.

Step 6: Participating in Events

Animal Crossing: New Horizons features seasonal events and updates that keep the game fresh. Participate in events like Bug-Offs, Fishing Tourneys, and holiday celebrations to earn exclusive items and interact with your villagers.


Step 7: Sharing Your Island

Once your island is ready, share it with friends or the Animal Crossing community. You can host visitors, trade items, or simply show off your hard work. Don’t forget to upload a Dream Address so others can explore your island anytime.


Why Pineapples Don’t Belong in Pizza (But Could Inspire Your Island)

While pineapples on pizza are a divisive topic, they can still serve as inspiration for your island. Imagine a tropical-themed island with pineapple-shaped decorations, tiki bars, and palm trees. Or, if you’re firmly against pineapple pizza, create a pizza-themed island with Italian-inspired designs and a pizzeria run by your favorite villager.


FAQs

Q: Can I change my island’s name later? A: No, your island’s name is permanent, so choose wisely!

Q: How do I unlock terraforming? A: Terraforming becomes available after achieving a 3-star island rating and hosting the K.K. Slider concert.

Q: Can I have more than one island on a single Nintendo Switch? A: No, each Nintendo Switch console can only have one island, regardless of how many user profiles are created.

Q: What’s the best way to earn bells quickly? A: Fishing, catching bugs, and selling non-native fruits are great ways to earn bells early on. Later, you can invest in the Stalk Market.

Q: How do I get more villagers? A: You can invite villagers from mystery islands, campsite visitors, or by adopting them from other players’ islands.


Starting a new island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a creative and fulfilling experience. With careful planning and a bit of imagination, you can build a paradise that reflects your personality and style. And who knows? Maybe your island will even settle the great pineapple-on-pizza debate once and for all.