Starting over in Animal Crossing can be bittersweet. You've poured hours into building your perfect island paradise, but the urge for a fresh start is strong. Whether you're experiencing burnout, want a different island layout, or simply crave a new adventure, resetting your Animal Crossing island is possible. This guide explores the different methods and considerations involved.
What Does Resetting My Island Entail?
Resetting your Animal Crossing island means deleting your existing save data and starting a completely new game. This means everything will be gone: your buildings, your villagers, your meticulously crafted landscaping, even your hard-earned Bells. It's a significant decision, so make sure you're absolutely certain before proceeding.
How to Actually Reset Your Animal Crossing Island
There isn't a single "reset button" within the game itself. The process involves deleting your save data, which varies slightly depending on your platform:
Nintendo Switch:
- Access System Settings: From the Switch's home screen, select "System Settings."
- Data Management: Navigate to "Data Management."
- Delete Save Data: Choose "Delete Save Data."
- Select Your Game: Select "Animal Crossing: New Horizons."
- Confirm Deletion: Confirm that you want to delete the save data. This action is irreversible.
Nintendo Switch Online Cloud Saves (Important Note): If you use cloud saves, deleting your local save data won't necessarily reset your island if your cloud save is active. You'll need to delete your cloud save data as well. Instructions for this are found within the Nintendo Switch Online app and settings.
Can I Transfer My Island to a New Console?
No, you cannot directly transfer your island to a new console. Island data is tied to the specific console where it was created. Resetting your island on one Switch and attempting to restore it on another will not work. You must start from scratch on the new console.
What Happens to My Amibos and DLC?
Resetting your island does not affect your access to Amiibo functionality or any downloaded DLC. You can still utilize these features when you start a new game.
Should I Back Up My Save Data Before Resetting?
While the process is irreversible, backing up your save data isn't directly applicable to a complete reset. There's no way to restore your old island from a backup after deleting the save file. However, backing up other data on your Switch is always a good practice.
Will I Lose My Bells and Items?
Yes, absolutely. Resetting your island means losing all progress, including your accumulated Bells, furniture, clothing, and other items. This is the most significant consequence of resetting and something to seriously consider.
Is There a Way to Start a "New" Game Without Losing Everything?
While a complete reset deletes everything, consider creating a new profile on your Nintendo Switch. This allows you to play a new game of Animal Crossing: New Horizons without deleting your original island data.
How Can I Avoid Feeling the Need to Reset?
Feeling overwhelmed with your island is common. Instead of resetting, try these alternatives:
- Take a Break: Step away from the game for a while. A break can refresh your perspective.
- Focus on a Specific Project: Instead of feeling pressured to do everything, concentrate on one area of your island at a time.
- Seek Inspiration: Browse online for design ideas. Sometimes a new perspective is all you need.
Resetting your Animal Crossing island is a significant undertaking, but understanding the process and the consequences will help you make an informed decision. Remember to carefully consider the implications before proceeding.
