Though Animal Crossing: New Horizons has been out for a few months, the game continues to see play thanks to major content additions such as this July's Summer Update - Wave 1 that put in swimming, diving, and sea creatures. That mechanic actually returns from the 3DS entry Animal Crossing: New Leaf, which also introduced fan-favorite character Isabelle, now back to being the figurehead for the series' official Twitter account.
When the marketing for New Horizons was in full swing, Tom Nook took over the Animal Crossing Twitter account to advertise his island getaway package, the inciting crux of the game's adventure that brings players to the deserted island they can decorate to their heart's content. Starting this month, Isabelle is back in charge according to a Tweet that cleverly plays it as part of her job while running the in-game Resident Services.
While Tom Nook is probably a better representative for the series, having made an appearance in every game since the original GameCube title with an arguably kinder demeanor each time, Isabelle's explosion of popularity thanks to New Leaf makes her a perfect icon for the social media era. That said, many in the comments of her return have complained about the restricted role Isabelle has in New Horizons that leaves her without any real news to discuss more often than not.
Regardless of one's thoughts about Isabelle's position in Resident Services, the popular Nintendo Switch game has only continued to grow in scope since March. New Horizons was the fastest-selling game on the console, and as of now it is also the best-selling physical game in Japan — even surpassing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
The larger updates that have been coming to New Horizons are just one reason the game has retained its fanbase, as its inherent structure means there is more content to find every month. For instance, July in the northern hemisphere has brought with it a myriad of cicadas and beetles, some of which have formed a kind of bug fight club in the museum.
Following the swimming update, Animal Crossing devs have teased a second new addition for the summer coming in August. Those who want to find out more about what that will entail as they catch all the new sea creatures should watch the game's social media feed, even if Isabelle might spend a couple days talking about her favorite television shows.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available now on Nintendo Switch.