You Now Have to Pay for Nintendo’s ‘Animal Crossing’ on Your Phone [Video]

Several months ago, Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp players received some disappointing news: Nintendo announced that online service for the game would end on Thanksgiving Day, effectively ending users’ ability to play it. 

“Since service began on November 21, 2017, for approximately seven years, we have been honored to see everyone’s lovely, diverse campsites grow and flourish,” the company said in an announcement. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many users who have loved Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp.“

This week, Nintendo introduced a paid app titled Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp Complete for iOS and Android. Initially, it will be available at an introductory price of $9.99 until 10 p.m. Pacific time on Jan. 30, 2025. After that, the price will be a one-time purchase of $19.99. Notably, the new version of the game does not include any in-app item purchases, unlike its predecessor.

This plan might be part of a new mobile app strategy for Nintendo. Super Mario …