Nintendo recently announced the upcoming closure of its free mobile game, Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, set to end on November 28. However, the game is making a comeback in a new, paid format. On December 3, Nintendo will launch Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp Complete, a $10 version that offers most of the original gameplay along with some new features.
This launch follows several efforts by Nintendo to bring its popular franchises to mobile, with varying success. While Pokémon Go has remained a success in partnership with Niantic, other titles, including those featuring Mario, didn't meet expectations.
According to a 12-minute YouTube video from Nintendo, Pocket Camp Complete includes several new additions, such as the ability to explore the island with your favorite villager and trade customizable "Camper Cards" with friends via QR codes. Players will also have access to a new mountain area called Whistle Pass, where they can gather with friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy nightly performances from K.K. Slider.
A key feature of the new version is offline play, meaning an internet connection is no longer required. However, this also means players won’t be able to interact with friends online, including using the Market Box for buying and selling items.
Nintendo is also phasing out some older features, like the premium "Leaf Tickets" currency and the Pocket Camp Club subscription service. The new app will introduce "Leaf Tokens," which can be earned through completing tasks or exchanging Bells.
Several features from Pocket Camp Club will be integrated into Complete, such as “Merry Memories,” which offers designs and stickers for player planners, “Happy Helper,” which lets players appoint a villager to gather items, and “Furniture & Fashion,” which enables saving multiple designs and outfits.
Existing players will be able to transfer their progress to the new version, including their level, Bells, and items. However, Leaf Tickets won’t carry over, so players are advised to use them before the app is shut down.
Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp Complete will be available for $10 until January 31, 2025, after which the price will increase to $20. Preorders are now available on the Google Play Store and the App Store.
Originally launched in 2017, Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp became a huge success, reaching 15 million downloads within its first six days. While it’s disappointing that the game is no longer free, the new paid version still holds promise, even with its higher price tag.