The summer update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons in 2020 introduced exciting new features. Players had the opportunity to interact with a new non-player character, discover new summertime furniture recipes, and, most notably, swim in the vast ocean surrounding their island. Navigating the waters is made simple by Nintendo’s design choices. Read on to learn everything you need to know about swimming in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
Gather the Necessary Equipment
Imagine heading to the beach, ready to take a dip in the water, only to realize that you can’t walk into it. Don’t worry; swimming is indeed possible, but you’ll need a wetsuit first. To get one, visit Nook’s Cranny and check the cabinet where they usually display plants, tools, and wallpaper. You’ll find a random selection of wetsuit designs for sale. Purchase one, like our horizontal stripes wetsuit, which costs 3,000 bells, and put it on to enable your swimming ability.
You also have the option to wear a snorkel. Although it won’t make you swim faster or stay underwater for a more extended period, it adds a fashionable touch to your swimming gear. The wetsuit, however, is a mandatory item. If you want a unique Nook-branded wetsuit, visit the Nook Shop in Residential Services. Redeem 800 Nook Miles for the wetsuit and an additional 500 Nook Miles for the snorkel.
Take the Plunge
While swimming is a great way to make your island feel more dynamic, it’s important to note that swimming to other islands is not possible. You’ll notice a rope net surrounding your island, partially submerged just offshore, limiting your swimming range. On the bright side, you can navigate around your entire island while swimming and reach areas that were previously inaccessible without terraforming. However, if you want to visit another island, you’ll need to catch a plane rather than relying on a snorkel. Keep in mind that your limited waterfront access allows you to fill your Critterpedia and not much more.
Once you’re ready to hit the water, head to the nearest beach and position yourself at the water’s edge. Here’s how to jump in and start swimming:
Step 1: Press the A button on your controller to enter the water.
Step 2: Keep tapping or holding down the A button to start swimming. If you don’t press the button, you can still slowly dog-paddle around by moving the left thumbstick.
Step 3: To exit the water, simply guide your islander towards the shore. They will automatically wade out once they are close enough.
Dive into the Unknown
Of course, before leaving the water, you’ll likely want to explore the new diving mechanic.
Step 1: While swimming, press the Y button to dive underwater.
Step 2: While underwater, press the A button and use the left thumbstick to swim. This is particularly useful for chasing elusive fish.
Step 3: Press the Y button again to resurface.
Remember that your islander can only stay submerged for ten seconds after pressing the Y button. However, there is no limit to the number of times you can dive before taking a break and leaving the water (unlike real people).
Uncover the Wonders of the Sea
Swimming and diving not only provide enjoyable experiences in their own right but also introduce a new page of the Critterpedia, featuring sea creatures. These creatures can only be found in the ocean, and diving underwater is necessary to locate them.
While swimming, you’ll encounter various sea creatures, even if you can’t see them directly. Look out for clusters of bubbles on the water’s surface; this indicates the presence of sea creatures. Dive into the water, and the camera will shift, giving you a vertical perspective. You’ll see shadows underwater, which represent the sea creatures. Position your islander above the dark spot and they will collect the unknown object, leading to a new set of puns to enjoy.
To catch fish, you’ll need to act quickly and dive into the deep blue waters to grab elusive sea creatures like Sea Butterflies while they are within reach.
Donating Sea Creatures to the Museum
Unlike the update that introduced Redd and the Art Exhibit, sea creatures do not have a separate wing in the museum. Instead, they join the current collection of fish on display. Take your first sea creature to Blathers, and he will promptly showcase it alongside your other catches.
Remember, if you need any assistance in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, don’t hesitate to reach out to OnSpec Electronic, Inc. Enjoy your swimming adventures!
