Games Similar to Animal Crossing for Switch [2024] 🎮

white sheep on green grass during daytime

Are you a fan of the charming and relaxing world of Animal Crossing? Do you want to find more games that offer a similar experience on your Nintendo Switch? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of games that capture the essence of Animal Crossing and provide hours of wholesome fun. Whether you’re into farming, crafting, or exploring vibrant worlds, these games are sure to keep you entertained. So grab your Joy-Cons and let’s dive into the world of games like Animal Crossing for Switch!

Quick Answer

Looking for games similar to Animal Crossing for Switch? Here are some top picks:

  1. A Short Hike
  2. Garden Paws
  3. Stranded Sails: Explorers of the Cursed Islands
  4. Forager
  5. My Time at Portia
  6. Yonder: Cloud Catcher Chronicles
  7. Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town
  8. Castaway Paradise
  9. Staxel
  10. The Sims 4
  11. Coral Island
  12. Disney Dreamlight Valley
  13. Stardew Valley
  14. Ooblets
  15. Cozy Grove

✅ 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Nintendo Switch Games | Animal Crossing Merchandise

Quick Tips and Facts

  • These games offer a similar experience to Animal Crossing, with elements like farming, crafting, and building relationships with characters.
  • Each game has its own unique features and gameplay mechanics, so be sure to check out the details to find the one that suits your preferences.
  • Some games on this list are available on multiple platforms, but we specifically focused on games that are playable on the Nintendo Switch.
  • Prices for these games may vary, so be sure to check the current prices on the respective platforms.

Background: Games Like Animal Crossing for Switch

silhouette of person standing on rock surrounded by body of water

Animal Crossing has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide with its charming gameplay and relaxing atmosphere. The game allows you to create your own virtual life in a peaceful village, where you can fish, catch bugs, decorate your home, and interact with adorable animal villagers. The open-ended nature of the game and the ability to play at your own pace make it a beloved title for many.

However, if you’ve already spent countless hours in your virtual village and are looking for something new, fear not! There are plenty of games that offer a similar experience to Animal Crossing on the Nintendo Switch. These games share the same core elements of relaxation, creativity, and exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in a delightful virtual world.

15. A Short Hike

Video: 15 Best Games like Animal Crossing.







  • Developer: adamgryu
  • Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Embark on a delightful adventure in A Short Hike, a cozy indie game that takes you on a journey to Hawk Peak Provincial Park. In this charming game, you play as Claire, a young bird who is visiting the park for a relaxing getaway. As you explore the park, you’ll meet various animal characters, engage in fun activities like fishing and hiking, and uncover secrets hidden throughout the park.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 8 9 8 8

A Short Hike offers a beautiful pixel art style, a soothing soundtrack, and a heartwarming story that will leave you with a smile on your face. The game’s short playtime and relaxing gameplay make it a perfect choice for those looking for a quick escape to a peaceful virtual world.

14. Garden Paws

Video: Cute & Cozy Games like Animal Crossing.







  • Developer: Bitten Toast Games
  • Platform(s): PC, Nintendo Switch

If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own farm and interacting with adorable anthropomorphic animals, then Garden Paws is the game for you. In this charming simulation game, you inherit a farm from your grandparents and embark on a journey to turn it into a thriving business. Plant crops, raise animals, craft items, and build relationships with the friendly animal villagers in the nearby town.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 8 8 8.5

Garden Paws offers a relaxing and immersive gameplay experience, with beautiful pixel art graphics and a wide range of activities to keep you engaged. Whether you’re tending to your crops, exploring the forest, or participating in seasonal events, there’s always something fun to do in this delightful game.

13. Stranded Sails: Explorers of the Cursed Islands

Video: Stranded Sails: Explorers of the Cursed Islands – Everything YOU NEED to know!







  • Developer: Lemonbomb Entertainment
  • Platform(s): PC, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, iOS

Set sail on a thrilling adventure in Stranded Sails: Explorers of the Cursed Islands. In this open-world exploration game, you find yourself shipwrecked on a mysterious archipelago. As you explore the islands, you’ll need to gather resources, farm crops, and cook delicious meals to survive. Uncover the secrets of the cursed islands and build a new life for yourself and your crew.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
8 8 8 7 7.5

Stranded Sails offers a unique blend of farming, exploration, and survival mechanics, with a captivating story and charming visuals. The game’s relaxing gameplay and engaging quests make it a great choice for fans of Animal Crossing who are looking for a new adventure.

12. Forager

Video: Top 10 BEST Alternatives to Animal Crossing | PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox.







  • Developer: HopFrog
  • Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

If you enjoy the resource management and exploration aspects of Animal Crossing, then Forager is a game you won’t want to miss. In this 2D open-world game, you start with a small piece of land and gradually expand your territory by gathering resources, crafting items, and solving puzzles. As you progress, you’ll unlock new abilities, discover ancient ruins, and encounter unique characters.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 9 8 8.75

Forager offers addictive gameplay, with a wide range of activities to keep you engaged. Whether you’re mining for resources, farming crops, or battling enemies in dungeons, there’s always something exciting to do in this captivating game.

11. My Time at Portia

Video: My Time at Portia – Can It Compete with Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley?







  • Developer: Pathea Games
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch

Step into the post-apocalyptic world of My Time at Portia, where you’ll embark on a journey to rebuild your father’s workshop and restore the town of Portia to its former glory. In this charming life sim game, you’ll engage in various activities like farming, crafting, fishing, and completing quests for the townsfolk. Build relationships, explore the world, and uncover the secrets of Portia in this delightful game.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 8 8 8 8.25

My Time at Portia offers a vast and immersive world to explore, with stunning visuals, a captivating storyline, and a wide range of activities to keep you entertained. The game’s charming characters and relaxing gameplay make it a perfect choice for fans of Animal Crossing.

10. Yonder: Cloud Catcher Chronicles

Video: 10 Games Like ANIMAL CROSSING You Should Check Out.







  • Developer: Prideful Sloth
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch

Embark on a breathtaking adventure in Yonder: Cloud Catcher Chronicles, a relaxing open-world game set in the vibrant world of Gemea. In this enchanting game, you’ll explore lush forests, snowy mountains, and sunny beaches, while completing quests, crafting items, and befriending adorable creatures known as Sprites. With no combat or time limits, Yonder offers a tranquil and immersive experience for players of all ages.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 8 9 8 8.5

Yonder: Cloud Catcher Chronicles offers stunning visuals, a soothing soundtrack, and a vast world to explore. Whether you’re fishing in crystal-clear lakes, farming in your own homestead, or uncovering the secrets of the land, there’s always something magical to discover in this captivating game.

9. Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town

Video: What is the best Story of Seasons game on the Switch? Comparing the 5 games!







  • Developer: Marvelous Inc
  • Platform(s): Nintendo Switch

If you’re a fan of farming and building relationships with charming characters, then Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town is the game for you. In this delightful farming simulation game, you’ll take on the role of a young farmer who moves to Olive Town to start a new life. Plant crops, raise animals, participate in festivals, and build relationships with the townsfolk as you work towards revitalizing the town.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 8 8 8.5

Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town offers a charming and immersive farming experience, with beautiful visuals, a relaxing soundtrack, and a wide range of activities to keep you engaged. Whether you’re tending to your crops, exploring the town, or participating in seasonal events, there’s always something fun to do in this delightful game.

8. Castaway Paradise

Video: Animal Crossing Clone? Castaway Paradise on Switch | 8-Bit Eric.







  • Developer: Stolen Couch Games
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, PS4, iOS, Android

If you’re looking for a game that combines the relaxing gameplay of Animal Crossing with the tropical vibes of a deserted island, then Castaway Paradise is the perfect choice. In this delightful life sim game, you find yourself stranded on a tropical island and must build a new life for yourself. Befriend anthropomorphic animals, fish, catch bugs, and grow crops as you explore the island and uncover its secrets.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
8 8 8 7 7.75

Castaway Paradise offers a vibrant and colorful world to explore, with a wide range of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you’re decorating your home, participating in island events, or completing quests for the villagers, there’s always something fun to do in this tropical paradise.

7. Staxel

Video: 5 Nintendo Switch Games You'll LOVE If You Enjoyed Animal Crossing New Horizons.







  • Developer: Plukit
  • Platform(s): PC, Nintendo Switch

If you’re a fan of blocky sandbox adventures like Minecraft and enjoy the relaxing gameplay of Animal Crossing, then Staxel is the game for you. In this charming game, you’ll restore a run-down farm, customize your home, and interact with adorable villagers. Plant crops, raise animals, go fishing, and explore the vibrant world of Staxel in this delightful sandbox experience.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
8 8 8 7 7.75

Staxel offers a unique blend of farming, building, and socializing, with a charming voxel art style and a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you’re tending to your crops, building your dream home, or participating in village events, there’s always something fun to do in this delightful game.

6. The Sims 4

Video: Games to play if you like Animal Crossing New Horizons.







  • Developer: Maxis
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, PS4

If you’re looking for a life simulation game that offers endless possibilities and creative freedom, then The Sims 4 is the perfect choice. In this popular franchise, you can create your own virtual characters, build and customize their homes, and guide them through various life stages. From pursuing careers to forming relationships, the choices are yours in this immersive and addictive game.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 9 8 8.75

The Sims 4 offers a vast and immersive world to explore, with endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. Whether you’re building your dream home, pursuing your dream career, or starting a family, there’s always something exciting to do in this beloved life simulation game.

5. Coral Island

Video: RANKING Every RECENT Cozy Game on Nintendo Switch I've Played!!







  • Developer: Stairway Games
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5

Dive into the tropical paradise of Coral Island, a farming and life sim game that offers a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration. In this charming game, you’ll run your own farm, revitalize a town, customize your character, and uncover the secrets of the island. With stunning visuals, a soothing soundtrack, and a wide range of activities to enjoy, Coral Island is a must-play for fans of Animal Crossing.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 8 8 8.5

Coral Island offers a beautiful and immersive world to explore, with a wide range of activities to keep you engaged. Whether you’re farming, fishing, mining, or participating in town events, there’s always something fun to do in this tropical paradise.

4. Disney Dreamlight Valley

Video: 10 Best Games Like Disney Dreamlight Valley 2023.







  • Developer: Gameloft
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch

Enter a magical world filled with Disney and Pixar characters in Disney Dreamlight Valley. In this enchanting adventure life sim hybrid, you’ll embark on a journey to restore light to the valley by completing quests, fishing, mining, and crafting. Build relationships with beloved characters, customize your home, and create your own magical story in this delightful game.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
8 8 8 7 7.75

Disney Dreamlight Valley offers a captivating and immersive world to explore, with stunning visuals, a charming storyline, and a wide range of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you’re collecting magical artifacts, participating in events, or decorating your home with Disney-themed items, there’s always something magical to discover in this enchanting game.

3. Stardew Valley

Video: TOP GAMES like Stardew Valley.







  • Developer: ConcernedApe
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

No list of games like Animal Crossing would be complete without mentioning Stardew Valley. In this beloved farming simulation game, you inherit a run-down farm and must work hard to restore it to its former glory. Plant crops, raise animals, form relationships with townsfolk, and explore the charming town of Stardew Valley in this addictive and heartwarming game.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 9 8 8.75

Stardew Valley offers a captivating and immersive farming experience, with charming pixel art graphics, a soothing soundtrack, and a wide range of activities to keep you engaged. Whether you’re tending to your crops, fishing in the nearby river, or participating in town events, there’s always something fun to do in this beloved indie game.

2. Ooblets

Video: 10 Cozy Games I Can't Live Without on the Nintendo Switch! (2023 Edition).







  • Developer: Glumberland
  • Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

If you’re a fan of adorable creatures and quirky dance battles, then Ooblets is the game for you. In this charming creature collecting adventure, you’ll explore the vibrant world of Oob and befriend adorable creatures known as Ooblets. Grow crops, complete quests, and participate in dance battles to earn new Ooblets and unlock new areas in this delightful and whimsical game.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 8 8 8 8.25

Ooblets offers a unique blend of farming, creature collecting, and dance battles, with charming visuals, a catchy soundtrack, and a wide range of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you’re exploring the town, customizing your home, or participating in Ooblet dance-offs, there’s always something fun to do in this whimsical world.

1. Cozy Grove

Video: 10 BEST COZY Games like Animal Crossing New Horizons on Switch & Steam.







  • Developer: Spry Fox
  • Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Apple Arcade

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Cozy Grove, a daily routine game where you play as a Spirit Scout on a haunted island. In this delightful game, you’ll help friendly spirits, cook delicious meals, fish, make friends with adorable animal characters, and uncover the secrets of the island. With its charming visuals, soothing soundtrack, and heartwarming story, Cozy Grove is a must-play for fans of Animal Crossing.

Game Rating:

Design Functionality Performance Cost-Effectiveness Overall
9 9 8 8 8.5

Cozy Grove offers a captivating and immersive experience, with its unique daily routine gameplay and charming characters. Whether you’re helping spirits, decorating your campsite, or participating in island events, there’s always something magical to discover in this delightful game.

FAQ

brown fox on snow field

Is there a switch game similar to Animal Crossing?

Yes, there are several games on the Nintendo Switch that offer a similar experience to Animal Crossing. Some of the top picks include A Short Hike, Garden Paws, Stranded Sails: Explorers of the Cursed Islands, and Forager. These games capture the essence of Animal Crossing with their relaxing gameplay, charming characters, and immersive worlds.

Read more about “Is there a game similar to Animal Crossing? … 🎮”

Is Disney Dreamlight like Animal Crossing?

Disney Dreamlight Valley offers a similar gameplay experience to Animal Crossing, with its charming characters, relaxing activities, and customizable home. However, it also incorporates elements from adventure games, such as quests, fishing, and mining. If you’re a fan of both Disney and Animal Crossing, you’ll definitely enjoy Disney Dreamlight Valley.

Are there different Animal Crossing games for switch?

While there is currently only one mainline Animal Crossing game for the Nintendo Switch, titled “Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” there are other games in the series available on previous Nintendo consoles. These include “Animal Crossing: New Leaf” for the Nintendo 3DS and “Animal Crossing: City Folk” for the Wii. Each game offers its own unique features and gameplay mechanics, but they all share the same core elements of relaxation, creativity, and community-building.

Read more about “… Games Like Switch: Discover the Best Alternatives to Nintendo Switch”

Is The Sims on switch?

Yes, The Sims 4 is available on the Nintendo Switch, allowing you to create your own virtual characters, build and customize their homes, and guide them through various life stages. The Sims 4 offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression, making it a popular choice for fans of life simulation games.

Read more about “What is the Highest Selling Video Game of All Time? …”

Conclusion

selective focus photography of brown hamster

If you’re a fan of Animal Crossing and are looking for more games that offer a similar experience on the Nintendo Switch, you’re in luck! The games we’ve listed here capture the essence of Animal Crossing with their relaxing gameplay, charming characters, and immersive worlds. Whether you’re into farming, crafting, or exploring vibrant virtual worlds, these games are sure to keep you entertained for hours on end.

So grab your Nintendo Switch and embark on a new adventure in A Short Hike, Garden Paws, Stranded Sails: Explorers of the Cursed Islands, or any of the other delightful games on this list. Each game offers its own unique features and gameplay mechanics, ensuring that you’ll find something that suits your preferences.

Remember, gaming is all about having fun and immersing yourself in new worlds. So go ahead, explore, create, and enjoy the wonderful world of games like Animal Crossing for Switch!

✅ 👉 CHECK PRICE on: Nintendo Switch Games | Animal Crossing Merchandise

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is a game developer turned editor who leads GamesLike.org with a builder’s eye for systems, balance, and “feel.” He oversees the site’s editorial roadmap and style guide, turning player questions—“What plays like this?”—into clear, cross-platform recommendations. His curation blends hands-on playtesting with design analysis to surface titles that share the same mechanics, themes, and vibes as your favorites. You’ll see that approach across GamesLike.org’s mechanic- and theme-driven lists and platform roundups, as well as family-focused guides that make it easy to choose what to play next.

At GamesLike.org, Jacob pushes for three things: precision (why a game matches), practicality (where to play it), and safety (what families should know). The result is an accessible, no-fluff destination for discovering “games like ___” whether you’re into indie experiments, AAA blockbusters, couch co-op, or kid-friendly adventures.

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