How to Add Friends on Animal Crossing

Step 1: Understanding Friend Codes

In Animal Crossing, one of the most delightful aspects of the game is connecting and interacting with friends. To do this, you’ll need to understand the concept of friend codes.

A friend code is a unique numerical code assigned to each player in Animal Crossing. This code serves as a digital identifier, allowing players to connect and play together, regardless of their physical location.

To find your friend code, you need to access your Nintendo Switch system settings. From the home menu, go to your profile icon located at the upper-left corner of the screen. Scroll down to find the “Add Friend” option and select it. Your friend code will be displayed on the right-hand side of the screen.

It’s important to note that friend codes are specific to each Nintendo Switch console. This means that if you have more than one Nintendo Switch, each device will have its own unique friend code.

Once you’ve obtained your friend code, you can start adding friends and expanding your Animal Crossing social circle. However, keep in mind that you’ll also need the friend code of the person you wish to add as a friend.

Friend codes typically consist of a series of twelve digits, formatted as XXXX-XXXX-XXXX. Make sure to input each digit correctly to ensure a successful friend request.

Understanding friend codes is the first step in building an active and engaging network of friends in Animal Crossing. With your friend code in hand, you’re ready to embark on exciting adventures with fellow players. So, let’s move on to the next step and learn how to acquire friend codes.

Step 2: Acquiring Friend Codes

Now that you have a clear understanding of friend codes, it’s time to acquire them from your friends or other players you want to connect with in Animal Crossing.

There are several ways to obtain friend codes:

Real-life friends: If you have friends who also play Animal Crossing, simply ask them for their friend code. They can share it with you directly, either in person or through online communication platforms like social media, messaging apps, or gaming forums.
Online communities: Joining online communities and forums dedicated to Animal Crossing can be a great way to meet new players and exchange friend codes. These communities often have designated sections or threads where players can share their friend codes or request to add others.
Social media: Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook have active Animal Crossing communities. You can connect with fellow players by searching for Animal Crossing-related hashtags or joining groups dedicated to the game. Many players share their friend codes on their profiles or in specific posts.
Gaming events and conventions: Attending gaming events or conventions related to Animal Crossing can provide opportunities to meet other players and exchange friend codes. Keep an eye out for events in your area or participate in virtual conventions.

Remember, when acquiring friend codes, it’s essential to ensure the reliability and trustworthiness of the individuals you’re connecting with. Be cautious when sharing personal information online, and only share your friend code with people you feel comfortable communicating and playing with.

By actively seeking out friend codes through various channels, you’ll open doors to new friendships and a vibrant Animal Crossing experience. With your friend codes collected, it’s time to proceed to the next step: sending friend requests.

Step 3: Sending Friend Requests

Now that you have acquired friend codes from other players, it’s time to send out those friend requests and expand your social circle in Animal Crossing.

Here’s how you can send friend requests:

Nintendo Switch Online app: If you have a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online, you can make use of the Nintendo Switch Online app on your smartphone. Open the app and go to the “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” section. From there, you can access the “Friend List” tab and select “Add Friend.” Enter the friend code of the player you want to add and send the request.
In-game menu: Within the game, open the NookPhone by pressing the “ZL” button, and select the “Best Friends” app. Choose the “Add Friend” option and enter the friend code of the player you want to add. Once you’ve entered the code, select “Send Request” to send the friend request.
Nintendo Switch system settings: Another way to send friend requests is through the Nintendo Switch system settings. From the home menu, go to your profile icon and scroll down to find the “Add Friend” option. Enter the friend code in the designated field and select “Send Friend Request.”

When sending a friend request, you can include a personal message to introduce yourself or indicate why you’d like to be friends. Adding a message helps create a more friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Once you’ve sent a friend request, the player on the receiving end will have the option to accept or decline it. Keep in mind that it might take some time for them to respond, so don’t worry if you don’t receive an immediate response.

Remember to be respectful when sending friend requests and only send them to players you genuinely want to connect with. Building a network of engaged and like-minded players will enhance your overall Animal Crossing experience.

Now that you know how to send friend requests, let’s move on to the next step: accepting friend requests and building lasting friendships in Animal Crossing.

Step 4: Accepting Friend Requests

After sending out friend requests, you may start receiving requests from other players who want to connect with you in Animal Crossing. It’s time to learn how to accept these friend requests and foster new friendships.

Here’s how you can accept friend requests:

Nintendo Switch Online app: If you have the Nintendo Switch Online app installed on your smartphone, you can accept friend requests through the app. Open the app and navigate to the “Friend List” tab. You will see a notification for pending friend requests. Select the request, review the player’s profile and message (if provided), and choose to accept the friend request.
In-game menu: In Animal Crossing, open your NookPhone by pressing the “ZL” button. Navigate to the “Best Friends” app and select the “Add Friend” tab. You will find a list of pending friend requests. Review the player’s details and select “Accept” to approve the friendship.
Nintendo Switch system settings: Alternatively, you can accept friend requests through the Nintendo Switch system settings. From the home menu, go to your profile icon and scroll down to find the “Add Friend” option. Upon selecting it, you’ll see the pending friend requests. Review the player’s information and select “Accept” to connect with them.

When accepting friend requests, take the time to read the player’s profile and any accompanying messages they may have included. This can help you get to know them better and determine if you share similar interests or playstyles.

Once you’ve accepted a friend request, both you and the other player will be added to each other’s friend lists. This allows you to visit each other’s islands, send letters and gifts, and enjoy various multiplayer activities together.

Remember to be welcoming and friendly when accepting friend requests. Engaging with other players can lead to lasting friendships and unforgettable gaming experiences in Animal Crossing.

Now that you know how to accept friend requests, let’s move on to the next step: removing friends if needed.

Step 5: Removing Friends

While making new friends in Animal Crossing is exciting, there might be instances where you need to remove someone from your friends list. Whether it’s due to inactivity, changing interests, or personal reasons, removing friends is a natural part of maintaining your social circle.

If you find yourself needing to remove a friend, here’s how you can do it:

Nintendo Switch Online app: Open the Nintendo Switch Online app on your smartphone and navigate to the “Friend List” tab. Find the friend you want to remove and select their profile. Choose the “Delete Friend” option to remove them from your friends list.
In-game menu: Open your NookPhone in Animal Crossing by pressing the “ZL” button. Go to the “Best Friends” app and select the “Friend List” tab. Find the friend you want to remove and choose the “Remove” option to delete them from your friends list.
Nintendo Switch system settings: From the home menu, go to your profile icon and scroll down to find the “Add Friend” option. Select it and navigate to the “Friend List” tab. Find the friend you want to remove and choose the “Remove” option to delete them.

Before removing a friend, it’s important to consider the impact it may have on your Animal Crossing interactions. Removing a friend means you will no longer have access to their island, be able to send them letters or gifts, or engage in multiplayer activities together.

Additionally, it’s essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and respect. If you feel the need to remove someone, it’s a good practice to communicate your decision with them beforehand or provide a brief explanation afterwards. This can help maintain a positive and understanding gaming community.

Remember, removing friends is not an indication of any ill will or personal dislike. It’s simply a way to ensure that your friends list reflects your current interests and active connections.

Now that you understand how to remove friends if needed, let’s move on to the next step: visiting and exploring your friends’ islands in Animal Crossing.

Step 6: Visiting Friends’ Islands

One of the most exciting aspects of Animal Crossing is the ability to visit your friends’ islands and explore their unique creations. By visiting other players’ islands, you can gather inspiration, collect rare items, and experience new gameplay elements. Here’s how you can visit your friends’ islands:

Online play: If you and your friend are playing at the same time, you can visit each other’s islands through online play. To do this, both players need to have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription. From your in-game NookPhone, select the “Airport” app, choose “I want to visit someone,” and select your friend’s island from the list of available friends. Once the connection is established, you can freely roam around their island, interact with residents, and enjoy the shared experience.
Dodo Code: If you want to invite friends to your island or join the island of someone you’re not friends with, you can make use of the Dodo Code system. When you open your airport gate for visitors, you’ll receive a unique Dodo Code. Share this code with your friend, and they can use it to visit your island. Similarly, if you want to visit someone else’s island and they provide you with their Dodo Code, you can input it at the airport to travel to their island.
Local play: If you and your friend are in close proximity, you can also visit each other’s islands through local play. Both players need to have their Nintendo Switch consoles in close proximity and wireless communication turned on. From your in-game NookPhone, select the “Airport” app, choose “I want to play locally,” and follow the prompts to establish a connection between the two consoles. This allows you to visit each other’s islands without the need for an internet connection.

When visiting your friends’ islands, remember to follow any rules or guidelines they may have in place. Be respectful of their belongings, do not pick up or destroy any items without their permission, and avoid trampling their flowers or disrupting their carefully designed landscapes.

Visiting your friends’ islands is not only a fun way to explore new environments but also an opportunity to deepen your friendships and exchange ideas within the Animal Crossing community.

Now that you know how to visit your friends’ islands, let’s move on to the next step: hosting friends on your own island and creating memorable experiences together.

Step 7: Hosting Friends on Your Island

Hosting friends on your island in Animal Crossing can be a delightful experience, allowing you to showcase your creativity, share resources, and create lasting memories together. Here’s how you can invite and host friends on your island:

Open your island: To host friends, start by opening your island to visitors. In-game, head over to the airport and talk to Orville. Select the option to invite guests or open your island to online play. Choose whether you want to allow only friends or anyone with a Dodo Code to visit. Orville will generate a Dodo Code which you can share with your friends or visitors.
Sharing your Dodo Code: To enable your friends to join your island, provide them with the generated Dodo Code. They can enter this code at their airport to travel to your island. It’s important to note that the Dodo Code is temporary and resets each time you close your gate or end your online session, ensuring control over who visits your island.
Setting ground rules: When hosting friends, it’s a good idea to establish some ground rules to ensure a positive and enjoyable visit. Communicate with your friends beforehand and let them know any specific guidelines you have in place. For instance, you may ask them not to trample flowers, take items without permission, or visit certain areas of your island.
Showing them around: Once your friends arrive on your island, take the opportunity to give them a guided tour. Show them your favorite spots, highlight popular attractions, and showcase any unique elements or design features you’ve added. This is a great way to spark conversations and share ideas with fellow players.
Participating in activities: While on your island, engage in various activities with your friends. You can go fishing, bug hunting, treasure hunting, or even host events such as fashion shows or scavenger hunts. Collaborate and have fun together to make the most out of your time on the island.
Trading and gifting: Hosting friends on your island also provides opportunities for trading or gifting items. If you and your friend have items you’re looking to exchange, you can arrange a trade during the visit. Additionally, consider preparing small gifts or surprises for your friends as a token of appreciation for their visit.

Remember, hosting friends on your island is a chance to foster a sense of community and strengthen your friendships. By providing a warm and inviting atmosphere, you can create a space where your friends feel welcomed and valued.

Now that you know how to host friends on your island, let’s explore the communication tools available in Animal Crossing to enhance your interactions.

Step 8: Communication Tools in Animal Crossing

In Animal Crossing, effective communication is key for building relationships and coordinating activities with friends. Fortunately, the game provides several communication tools to facilitate interaction and enhance your overall gaming experience. Here are some of the communication tools available:

In-game messaging: The in-game messaging system allows you to send letters to your friends. Simply open your NookPhone and access the “Mail” app. Compose a letter, add decorations or gifts, and address it to the friend you want to communicate with. This is a great way to share updates, express gratitude, or simply have casual conversations.
Custom chat messages: When playing with friends on your island or visiting theirs, you can make use of custom chat messages. These are pre-set phrases or emotes that can be accessed by using the chat function or pressing the “R” button on the Joy-Con. Messages can be as simple as greetings or expressions of excitement, allowing for quick and easy communication during gameplay.
Voice chat: If you prefer real-time communication while playing with friends, you can use voice chat. By using external communication platforms like Discord or the Nintendo Switch Online app, you can engage in voice conversations to discuss gameplay strategies, coordinate activities, or simply chat and have fun together.
Design sharing: Another way to communicate and connect with friends is through design sharing. You can create custom patterns for clothing, flags, or ground designs and share them with your friends. This allows you to exchange design ideas, collaborate on projects, or display your creativity through your friends’ islands.
Online forums and social media: Outside of the game, you can utilize online forums and social media platforms dedicated to Animal Crossing. These platforms provide opportunities to connect with a broader community of players, share tips and tricks, showcase your island, and organize events. Engaging with these communities can lead to new friendships and inspiration for your own gameplay.

Remember to embrace communication as a means to strengthen your friendships, exchange ideas, and foster a supportive community within Animal Crossing. Open and respectful communication can make your gaming experience even more enjoyable and meaningful.

Now that you’re familiar with the communication tools available, let’s move on to the next step: establishing online friendships and expanding your social circle.

Step 9: Establishing Online Friendships

In Animal Crossing, the opportunity to establish online friendships opens up a world of shared experiences and collaborative gameplay. Building meaningful connections with other players can enhance your enjoyment of the game and create lasting relationships beyond the virtual world. Here’s how you can establish online friendships:

Engage with the community: Actively participate in online forums, social media groups, and dedicated Animal Crossing communities. Interact with other players by commenting on their posts, sharing your own experiences, and offering assistance. By engaging with the community, you increase your chances of connecting with like-minded players looking to establish new friendships.
Join multiplayer events: Look for opportunities to join multiplayer events organized by the community or fellow players. These events can include treasure hunts, island tours, fashion shows, or even virtual parties. By participating in these events, you can meet and interact with a diverse range of players who share your enthusiasm for Animal Crossing.
Host your own events: Take the initiative to host your own multiplayer events. Create unique themes for gatherings, such as garden parties, home decoration showcases, or fishing competitions. By inviting others to participate, you have the chance to connect with players who enjoy the same activities and build friendships through shared interests.
Collaborate on projects: Find players who are interested in collaborating on ambitious projects within the game. These projects might include designing intricate landscapes, creating custom outfits, organizing in-game events, or constructing themed areas on each other’s islands. Collaborations provide an opportunity to work closely with others and establish deeper connections.
Share and visit dream addresses: Utilize the dream address feature in Animal Crossing to share your island’s dream address with others. This allows them to visit a dream version of your island, regardless of whether you are online or your island is currently accessible. Leave a note or a message at your dream address to encourage visitors to interact and establish connections.
Communicate outside the game: To further solidify online friendships, consider connecting with other players outside of the game. Exchange social media handles or gaming usernames, join gaming-related chat platforms, or set up voice chats. Connecting beyond the game allows for more frequent and direct communication, strengthening your bond with other players.

Remember, building genuine online friendships takes time and effort. Be respectful, understanding, and open-minded when interacting with others. Find common interests, support fellow players, and celebrate each other’s achievements. By establishing online friendships, you add an enriching social dimension to your Animal Crossing experience.

Now that you know how to establish online friendships, let’s move on to the final step: playing together and enjoying the game to the fullest.

Step 10: Playing Together and Enjoying the Game

After going through the previous steps of understanding friend codes, acquiring new friends, sending and accepting friend requests, removing friends when necessary, visiting each other’s islands, hosting friends on your island, utilizing communication tools, and establishing online friendships, it’s time to immerse yourself in the joy of playing together and enjoy all that Animal Crossing has to offer.

Here are some ways to maximize your enjoyment of the game while playing with friends:

Collaborative projects: Embark on collaborative projects with your friends, such as designing theme areas on your islands, hosting virtual events, or building a communal area. This allows you to combine your creative ideas and talents, resulting in unique and memorable experiences.
Trade and share resources: Keep an open line of communication with your friends about the items, resources, or DIY recipes you need or have in excess. Engage in trading and resource-sharing to help each other progress and decorate your islands. This fosters a sense of community and cooperation.
Multiplayer activities: Participate in multiplayer activities together, such as fishing, bug catching, or fossil hunting. You can also engage in friendly competitions to see who can find the rarest items or catch the biggest fish. These activities create a sense of camaraderie and keep the gameplay experience exciting.
Island tours: Explore each other’s islands by taking island tours together. Highlight the unique features and hidden gems you’ve discovered during your gameplay. Share insights, tips, and tricks with your friends, and learn from their island designs and ideas.
Virtual socializing: Take the time to connect and socialize with your friends while playing. Arrange virtual meetups, have in-game tea parties, or organize virtual celebrations for special occasions. Engage in conversation, share stories and experiences, and strengthen your bonds as you create cherished memories together.
Celebrate milestones: Celebrate important milestones with your friends, such as birthdays, game anniversaries, or achieving significant in-game goals. Send thoughtful letters or virtual gifts to show your appreciation and make the occasion even more special.

Remember that the essence of playing together and enjoying the game lies in the relationships you build and the shared experiences you create. Embrace the spirit of friendship, collaboration, and discovery in Animal Crossing, and let the game become a platform for connection, creativity, and endless fun.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and steps to enhance your gaming experience in Animal Crossing, go out there, connect with friends, and immerse yourself in the beautiful world of this beloved game. Happy gaming!