Animal Crossing fans urged to mark their calendars for 5 August

If you are a fan of Animal Crossing, sad that Animal Crossing: New Horizons stopped receiving updates, AND want something that captures the same magic, then you will want to mark your calendars for 5 August.

Animal Crossing is regarded as one of the best life simulation games of all time, allowing players to live side-by-side with some of their favourite animal villagers in an idyllic setting.

First launched in 2001, the Animal Crossing franchise has received multiple entries but more recently, it welcomed Animal Crossing: New Horizons back in 2020.

Despite the game being a hit and life-saver during COVID-19, it soon stopped receiving updates after its Happy Home Paradise DLC and fans were left heartbroken and frustrated.

However, if you are one such fan, worry not as the next best thing is finally making its way to PlayStation next month.

Hello Kitty Island Adventure was first released for the Nintendo Switch and PC earlier this year but at long last, it is finally arriving on PlayStation 5 on 5 August.

It will arrive on the PlayStation Store in just a few days with the physical version following on 29 August.

Last but not least, it is expected to receive a PS4 port but we do not yet have the date for this release.

If you are unsure what Hello Kitty Island Adventure is about, the official synopsis reads as follows:

“Create a unique, Sanrio-style original avatar and get to know iconic Sanrio characters like Kuromi, Badtz-Maru, Cinnamoroll, Chococat, and Aggretsuko.

Share gifts, complete quests, and take part in island activities to deepen your bonds. Spruce up cabins to attract new visitors from among Hello Kitty’s many friends.

Create a stylish wardrobe all your own, solve mysterious puzzles, cook delectable recipes, collect friendly critters, and fish, and explore the island solo or with a friend to unearth the many secrets of a massive in-game world."

Our very own Kate Harrold loved Hello Kitty Island Adventure for the Nintendo Switch, calling the port a “match made in heaven”.

“If there’s anything about cosy gaming that appeals to you, Hello Kitty Island Adventure should undoubtedly be high on your to-play list,” her review reads.

“Developer Sunblink, in partnership with Sanrio, may have built a game on the foundations of those that have come before in the genre, but that doesn’t detract from the fact that the end result is a sunshine-filled tonic that’s sure to delight every single player who consumes it.”