Animal Crossing rival coming to Nintendo Switch 2

HoYoverse's upcoming life-simulation game Petit Planet is officially heading to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027. The announcement was made during a special presentation some hours ago, confirming Nintendo's new console as the game's first announced console platform. Targeting Nintendo’s platform is a logical choice for a developer attempting to lure some of the 11 million monthly players of Animal Crossing, but it does pit HoYoverse against that franchise on its home ground.

Petit Planet will initially launch on PC, iOS and Android on December 4, 2026. Players will be able to develop their own planet, cultivate crops, go fishing, craft furniture and customize their surroundings. Building relationships with colorful neighbors is another key part of the experience, while players can also venture beyond their home planet to explore neighboring islands and visit the Galactic Bazaar. HoYoverse has also confirmed that more than 1,000 clothing and furniture items will be available to unlock via regular gameplay.

A specific release date has yet to be announced for the Switch 2 release in 2027. HoYoverse says it is actively developing the port and plans to share gameplay footage and further details in the near future. Given the company's history of bringing nearly all games to the PlayStation since Genshin Impact, the lack of a PS5 announcement is notable and has already prompted complaints from PlayStation fans. Whether Petit Planet will reach other consoles remains unanswered; HoYoverse has not announced any further platform plans for now.