Difference between revisions of "Animal Crossing"

From Nookipedia, the Animal Crossing wiki
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{{DISPLAYTITLE:''Animal Crossing'' (GCN)}}
 
 
{{Infobox VGinfo
 
{{Infobox VGinfo
 
|title        = [[File:AnimalCrossinglogo.png|200px]]
 
|title        = [[File:AnimalCrossinglogo.png|200px]]
Line 5: Line 4:
 
|developer    = [[Wikipedia:Nintendo EAD|Nintendo EAD]]
 
|developer    = [[Wikipedia:Nintendo EAD|Nintendo EAD]]
 
|publisher    = [[Nintendo]]
 
|publisher    = [[Nintendo]]
|distributor  = Nintendo
+
|distributor  = [[Nintendo]]
 
|designer    =
 
|designer    =
 
|platforms    = [[Nintendo GameCube]]
 
|platforms    = [[Nintendo GameCube]]
|engine      = ''[[Animal Forest]]''
+
|engine      = {{DnM}}
|released    = {{NA}}September 15, 2002<br>{{AUS}}October 17, 2003<br>{{EU}}September 24, 2004
+
|released    = {{JP}}December 14, 2001<br>{{NA}} September 16, 2002<br>{{AUS}} October 17, 2003<br>{{EU}} September 24, 2004
 
|genre        = Life Simulation<br>Role-playing
 
|genre        = Life Simulation<br>Role-playing
 
|modes        = Single player
 
|modes        = Single player
 
|rating      = {{Rating|ESRB=E (Everyone)|PEGI=3+}}
 
|rating      = {{Rating|ESRB=E (Everyone)|PEGI=3+}}
|media        = 1 GameCube Optical Disc
+
|media        = GameCube Optical Disc
 
|requirements =
 
|requirements =
|input        = GameCube controller<br>Game Boy Advance<br>Nintendo e-Reader
+
|input        = GameCube controller<br>[[Game Boy Advance]]<br>[[Nintendo e-Reader]]
 
|strategywiki = Animal Crossing
 
|strategywiki = Animal Crossing
 
}}
 
}}
'''''Animal Crossing''''' (sometimes subtitled ''Population Growing'') is a localized and updated version of {{AF+}}. Developed solely for the [[Nintendo GameCube]], the game is notable for being the first title in the {{SER}} to be released outside Japan. ''Animal Crossing'' was soon re-released with the 'Player's Choice Edition' label on the box's cover art. The game was so commercially successful that it was ported back into Japanese and released as {{AFe+}}, along with a few new additional features.
+
'''{{PG|nolink}}''' (Japanese: '''どうぶつの森+''', ''Dōbutsu no Mori+'', lit. Animal Forest+), sometimes subtitled ''Population Growing'', is an updated version of {{DnM}} for the [[Nintendo 64]], released for the Nintendo GameCube in Japan on December 14, 2001, just nine months after the original title, and localized for western regions in 2002. This version contains extra features that had to be left out of the Nintendo 64 version, and also utilizes the GameCube's built-in clock to keep track of the date and time while dropping the Nintendo 64's original system that utilized an internal clock built into the game cartridge. With the use of the GameCube's clock, time passes in the game even when the game is not being played. This led to the game's slogan, "It's playing, even when you're not".
  
The game designers declined to create an overarching plot, instead allowing players to have full control over their own life and play indefinitely. Time passes as it does in the real world. For example, if a game plays during [[December]], it will be [[winter]]. [[Events|Holidays]] and special events usually mirror real world equivalents and often occur on the same days.
+
During the game's localization process overseas as Animal Crossing, there were many changes that not only involved immense translation from Japanese to English, but also replacements of many cultural references as well as brand new content, including new holidays, new items and new or altered events to appeal more to western audiances. Due to its popularity, {{PG|nolink}} became a Player's Choice title about a year after its North American release. The game was so commercially successful that it was ported back into Japanese with a few additional features and released as {{DnMe+}}. {{PG|nolink}} was also well-received by critics, and was included in many year-end 'best of' lists upon its release. It has also been featured in several all-time top video game countdowns, and has received multiple [[Animal_Crossing_(GCN)#Awards_and_nominations|awards and nominations]].
 +
 
 +
==Features==
 +
''Animal Crossing'' introduced numerous additions not present in the original ''Doubutsu no Mori'', including new items, new mechanics, and other things.
 +
===Characters and Locations===
 +
''Animal Crossing'' adds numerous characters and villagers into the game. For instance, the player can now travel to [[Animal Island|an island]] by speaking with [[Kapp'n]] at the beach, though only if a Game Boy Advance is connected to the system. Additionally, the [[Museum]] is added, allowing players to gather all of the bugs, fish, fossils, and paintings they collect to be on display for the public. The [[Able Sisters (shop)|Able Sisters]] is also included, which allows the player to create their own custom designs.
 +
 
 +
===Items===
 +
Various new furniture is added into the game, and the player can now gain additional upgrades for their house, gaining a second floor or basement. Furthermore, various bugs and fish not present in the original game are added, and the [[Axe]], which was unbreakable in the original game, now breaks if used too often. More NES games are also added, and are explicitly labeled by the game they emulate, rather than simply being called "famicom".
 +
 
 +
[[Tortimer]], the mayor of the Player's town, is included, who will give the player an item to celebrate any holiday in which he appears.
 +
 
 +
Stationary is also sold in packs of four, instead of one page in the original game, and the player can store more than one item in storage containers. Additionally, the player can now insert multiple airchecks into the same music player.
 +
 
 +
===e-Reader connectivity===
 +
{{main|Nintendo e-Reader}}
 +
{{PG|nolink}} is the only title for the Nintendo GameCube released outside of Japan to feature support for the [[Nintendo e-Reader]] peripheral. By connecting to the e-Reader via a [[Nintendo GameCube Game Boy Advance Cable]] players can access the [[island]], play [[NES games]], and scan [[Animal Crossing-e]] cards to access special items, patterns, and mini-games.
  
 
==North American localization==
 
==North American localization==
Dōbutsu no Mori+ features many culturally specific items and events which cater to a Japanese audience. These elements had to be altered or removed in order to make the gameplay more appealing to Western players. Some examples include the transformation of the [[Media:0BellShrine.PNG|Bell Shrine]] into the [[Wishing Well]] and the removal of the [[Spa_set|spa items]], which are typical of Japanese ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onsen onsen]''. In an effort to preserve the game's unique real-world character, events were introduced that would be familiar to North American players, such as [[Groundhog's Day]] and [[Thanksgiving]].
 
  
The NOA localization team began writing game dialog in early 2012, however translation of the game's hundreds of items began months earlier<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgg62DMyzyA&t=1m13s</ref>. Unlike the extended localization and development process for recent titles in the series, ''Animal Crossing'' was localized in the short span of eight to twelve months. During this time, the team translated 30,000+ files of text<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hands-on-preview/2855/animal-crossing-gamecube</ref>, worked to develop new items (such as the [[Camping_Gear|camping gear]]) and added support for the Nintendo e-Reader, which was launched just two days after the game's release in North America.
+
{{PG|nolink}} introduced the concept of region-exclusive [[Events|holidays]] and special events that would later become a series staple.
 +
 
 +
The Japanese release (''Doubutsu no Mori +'') features many culturally specific items and events that cater to a Japanese audience which Nintendo altered or removed in order to make the gameplay more appealing to Western players. Some examples include the transformation of the [[Media:0BellShrine.PNG|Bell Shrine]] into the [[Wishing Well]] and the removal of the [[Spa_set|spa items]], which are typical of Japanese ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onsen onsen]''. In an effort to preserve the game's unique real-world character, events were introduced that would be familiar to North American players, such as [[Groundhog's Day]] and [[Thanksgiving]].
 +
 
 +
The NOA localization team began writing game dialog in early 2002, however translation of the game's hundreds of items began months earlier<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgg62DMyzyA&t=1m13s</ref>. Unlike the extended localization and development process for recent titles in the series, ''Animal Crossing'' was localized in the short span of eight to twelve months. During this time, the team translated 30,000+ files of text<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hands-on-preview/2855/animal-crossing-gamecube</ref>, worked to develop new items (such as the [[Camping_Gear|camping gear]]) and added support for the [[Nintendo e-Reader]], which was launched just two days after the game's release in North America.
  
 
===Announcement and release date===
 
===Announcement and release date===
On May 16, 2001 at Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference, a six second montage of footage from "Animal Forest" was shown to members of the media as part of a larger reel featuring upcoming Nintendo Gamecube titles. The clip did not feature any dialog, however the presence of the Bell Shrine indicates that it was still early in the localization process, if not footage straight from Dōbutsu no Mori+. This was the first time the game was shown in North America, and the first evidence of its English localization.
+
On May 16, 2001<ref>http://www.ign.com/articles/2001/05/10/nintendo-pre-e3-press-conference-details-2</ref> at Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference, a six second montage of footage from "Animal Forest" was shown to members of the media as part of a larger reel featuring upcoming Nintendo Gamecube titles<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGepCTXT0wA&t=6m0s</ref>. The clip did not feature any dialog, however the presence of the Bell Shrine indicates that it was still early in the localization process, if not footage straight from {{DnM+}}. This was the first time the game was shown in North America, and the first evidence of its English localization.
 +
 
 +
As early as October of 2001<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/6621/animal-forest-usa-bound</ref>, Nintendo established a page on their website for Animal Forest noting it was "being optimized for its U.S. debut on the GameCube."<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20011123183306/http://nintendo.com/games/gamepage/gamepage_main.jsp?gameId=646&showMe=1</ref> A few months later on February 28, 2002 at a Nintendo Roundtable Conference, Shigeru Miyamoto confirmed that localization of Animal Forest was "progressing and moving along quite well" with Satoru Iwata projecting it to be released "sometime in the fall."<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7060/animal-forest--coming-to-north-america</ref> About a month later on March 30, 2002 the game's name was officially changed to ''Animal Crossing''<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7196/animal-forest--gets-a-name-change</ref>, as reflected on Nintendo's website at the time.
  
As early as October of 2001<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/6621/animal-forest-usa-bound</ref>, Nintendo established a page on their website for Animal Forest noting it was "being optimized for its U.S. debut on the GameCube."<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20011123183306/http://nintendo.com/games/gamepage/gamepage_main.jsp?gameId=646&showMe=1</ref> A few months later on February 28, 2002 at a Nintendo Roundtable Conference, Shigeru Miyamoto confirmed that localization of Animal Forest was "progressing and moving along quite well" with Satoru Iwata projecting it to be released "sometime in the fall."<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7060/animal-forest--coming-to-north-america</ref> About a month later on March 30, 2012 the game's name was official changed to ''Animal Crossing''<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7196/animal-forest--gets-a-name-change</ref>, as reflected on Nintendo's website at the time.
+
On May 22, 2002 at Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference, an extended video was shown introducing ''Animal Crossing'' and highlighting its ability to connect with the e-Reader and Game Boy Advance<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uzTeRvm1Uo&t=15m9s</ref>. Iwata also confirmed the game for September release in North America. Later that day, ''Animal Crossing'' made its second E3 appearance, this time as a playable title on the show floor<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hands-on-preview/2855/animal-crossing-gamecube</ref>. It was generally overshadowed by high-profile titles, however it still snagged a third place spot on the Game Critic Award's list for Best Original Game of E3 2002<ref>http://www.giantbomb.com/e3-2002/3015-3434/</ref>. Despite conflicting information on modern gaming websites<ref>http://www.gamefaqs.com/gamecube/516502-animal-crossing</ref><ref>http://www.ign.com/games/action-replay-ultimate-codes-animal-crossing/gcn-16562</ref>, ''Animal Crossing'''s North American release date was set for September 16, 2002 as noted on its official sites<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20030213033234/http://www.nintendo.com/games/gamepage/gamepage_main.jsp?gameId=646&showMe=1</ref><ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20020911113240/http://www.animal-crossing.com/parents.jsp</ref> and a press release from Nintendo of America<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7622/lucky-gamers-play-animal-crossing-early</ref>. There were reports, however, that select Blockbuster Video locations had received and began renting advance copies of the game as early as September 6th<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7731/animal-crossing-hits-blockbuster-early</ref>.
  
At Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference, an extended video was shown introducing ''Animal Crossing'' and focusing on its ability to connect with the e-Reader and Game Boy Advance<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uzTeRvm1Uo&t=15m9s</ref>. Iwata also confirmed the game for September release in North America. In May of 2002 ''Animal Crossing'' made its second E3 appearance, this time as a playable title on the show floor<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hands-on-preview/2855/animal-crossing-gamecube</ref>. It was generally overshadowed by high-profile titles, however it still snagged a third place spot on the Game Critic Award's list for Best Original Game of E3 2002.
+
{{ExpertWanted|global logistics and game studies|''Animal Crossing''|Discrepancies in NA release date need resolution, research into release date(s) in South American countries is needed. Starting point: Research South American distribution by ''Latamel Inc''.}}
  
==Gameplay==
+
==Website and promotion==
[[Player]]s assume the role of a [[boy]] or [[girl]] human setting out for a life of his or her own in a small [[town]]. Each town is randomly generated to ensure that no two players' experiences are exactly the same. Players can pick [[fruit]], grow [[tree]]s, [[flower|garden]], hunt for [[fossil]]s, [[fish]], catch [[insect]]s, do favors for the [[villager]]s, decorate their [[house|homes]], and perform other such tasks.
+
{{main|Crossing Guardian}}
 +
In early September 2002 the official North American ''Animal Crossing'' website, the Crossing Guardian, went live. It mimicked a real-life newspaper and featured articles on different aspects of the game, sometimes written from the perspective of in-game characters. The site was also used to distribute [[secret code]]s for exclusive [[NES games]] as well as items from the [[Mario Theme]].
  
Within Animal Crossing, you can play [[NES Games]]. They are all a separate furniture, for example, Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros. are two different furniture.
+
===''Animal Crossing'' Pioneers===
 +
On August 7, 2002 Nintendo of America announced a contest whereby 125 teams of two would be selected to receive advance promotional copies of ''Animal Crossing''<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7622/lucky-gamers-play-animal-crossing-early</ref>. The submission deadline for the contest was August 12th. To be considered for selection, applicants had to submit a written response of 50 words or less explaining why they should chosen as Pioneers. Those selected received a special ''Animal Crossing'' disc marked "for promotional use only", along with a 59 block Memory Card and a promotional ''Animal Crossing'' calendar. Pioneers received the game a month early and were expected to help Nintendo generate online buzz in advance of the title's release. Pioneers were also given exclusive access to their own web forum<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20021022162833/http://www.nintendo.com/animalcrossing/index.jsp</ref> where they could discuss amongst themselves as well as provide feedback to Nintendo representatives. At the end of the experience, the Pioneers were invited to an online chat with a few of the members of the game's localization team<ref>http://www.mobygames.com/forums/dga,2/dgb,8/dgm,63261/</ref>. An analysis of the standard and promotional game disc concluded that the two were byte identical<ref>http://redump.org/disc/5169/</ref>, meaning that no changes were made to the final version as a result of Pioneer feedback. The promotional copy and calendar have since become collector's items, selling for over $500 together on eBay as of March, 2014<ref>http://www.ebay.com/itm/301124433392?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649</ref>.
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery>
 +
File:ACGCPioneersProgramLogin.png | Pioneer program login
 +
File:ACGCPromotionalCopy.png | Promotional disc
 +
File:ACGCPioneerLetter.png | Calendar letter
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File:ACGCCalendarFront.png | Front of calendar & promo copy
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File:ACGCCalendarBack.png | Back of calendar & promo copy
 +
File:ACGCCalendarInside.png | Inside calendar
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
  
==Story==
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===Sweepstakes===
[[File:Tom Nook (GCN).png|thumb|left|100px|Tom Nook, the owner of [[Tom Nook's store|Nook's Cranny]], will help any new residents settle into town.]]
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On August 30, 2002 Nintendo of America initiated the {{PG|nolink}} "Deck Out Your Room" Sweepstakes. One grand prize winner received a TV, headphones, and CD player from Panasonic, a Nintendo GameCube, a Game Boy Advance, five GameCube games, five Game Boy Advance Games, two WaveBird controllers, and a one year subscription to Nintendo Power. Five first prize winners received a Nintendo GameCube, a copy of ''Animal Crossing'', and a one year subscription to Nintendo Power<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20020903184841/http://www.animal-crossing.com/sweeps/index.jsp</ref>. The sweepstakes ended on October 15, 2002<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20020923023614/http://www.animal-crossing.com/sweeps/rules.jsp</ref>. Those who registered for the sweepstakes received an ''Animal Crossing'' screensaver<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7734/deck-out-your-room</ref>.
Finally on his or her own, a young boy or girl hops on a [[train]] and set out for a new life in a small village inhabited by sapient, humanoid animals.  However, being a spirited youth, the child forgot to find a place to live first, and has only the clothes on their back and 1,000 [[Bells]]. On the train, [[Rover]] sits across from him or her and drums up a [[conversation]]. During the exchange, the cat finds out about the child’s situation. Rover contacts [[Tom Nook]] and arranges for his old friend to help out the boy or girl upon their arrival.
 
  
Once in town, the youth steps down from the [[Train Station]] platform and is greeted by a flustered raccoon.  Tom Nook introduces himself as the owner of the town’s [[Tom Nook's store|shop]] and shows the child his four available houses. While they are all very small and unfurnished, Tom Nook assures him or her that they will suit his or her needs. Yet, they are pricey and out of the boy or girl’s price range. Tom Nook decides to employ the child until he or she can pay off the debt he or she owes on the house. During this period of employment, the child meets the villagers and the mayor and acquaints his or herself with the [[Post Office]], [[Able Sisters|Able Sisters Shop]], [[Museum]], [[Police Station]], and other buildings.
+
===Commercials and trailer===
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Nintendo of America began its advertising campaign in early September, 2002 with the release of four live-action commercials featuring players living in an {{PG|nolink}} world<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7756/animal-crossing-commercials</ref>. These commercials along with a trailer for the game appeared on a Preview DVD for the Nintendo GameCube that was distributed by retailers (both in North America and internationally<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIuQsSDVZPs</ref>) in late 2002 and may have also been an insert in Nintendo Power magazine<ref>http://www.destructoid.com/blogs/The+Bowels+of+Trogdor/the-gamecube-promo-dvd-trailers-done-right-developers-take-notes--267660.phtml</ref>. Video trailers for the game were also included on Interactive Multi-Game Demo Disc Versions 5<ref>http://www.ign.com/games/interactive-multi-game-demo-disc-july-2002-142703/gcn-490225</ref> and 7<ref>http://www.ign.com/games/interactive-multi-game-demo-disc-version-7-142714/gcn-492650</ref>, released in July and September of 2002, respectively. These game discs were sent to retailers for use in Nintendo GameCube demo kiosks.
  
However, Tom Nook eventually runs out of tasks for the youth to perform, and is forced to let him or her go. The boy or girl is forced to make it on his or her own without a real job. However, the villagers are a needy bunch, and the land is brimming with fruit bearing trees, fish-filled rivers, and ideal bug-catching conditions. It is also a registered archeological site of the [[Faraway Museum]].
+
==Pricing and sales==
 +
''Animal Crossing'' shipped with a $49.95 MSRP in North America<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20020911113240/http://www.animal-crossing.com/parents.jsp</ref>. In a press release from Nintendo of America dated October 28, 2002 the game was reported to have sold over 100,000 copies in its first four weeks of sale<ref>http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7951/animal-crossing-e-cards-released</ref>, ranking eighth in video game sales for the month of September<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20090120102407/http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=marketData&content=topgamesellers&chartdate=9%2F1%2F2002&Submit=Go</ref>. ''Animal Crossing'' would fall off the charts the next month and would not reappear near the top of an industry-wide cumulative sales chart (monthly or otherwise) for the remainder of its life cycle, however it would remain a popular title in terms of GameCube software sales. In December of 2002, it sold over 130,000 copies<ref>http://forum.beyond3d.com/archive/index.php/t-3020.html</ref>, not far behind Super Mario Sunshine, which was released a few weeks before {{PG|nolink}}. By October of 2004 {{PG|nolink}} had sold upwards of 760,000 copies, making it the 11th best selling title on the system at the time<ref>http://www.videogame.it/forum/t/152967/.html</ref>. On September 25th, 2003 just over a year after its initial release, ''Animal Crossing'' became a Player's Choice title, with a new MSRP of $29.99<ref>http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news100903playerschoice</ref>. All-time sales figures place ''Animal Crossing'' as the sixth best-selling GameCube game with somewhere between 1.68<ref>http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-USPlatinum.shtml</ref> and 1.92<ref>http://www.vgchartz.com/game/81/animal-crossing/</ref> million units sold, just ahead of the critically acclaimed Metroid Prime. Comparing it to the Pikmin series, another new Nintendo IP debuting on the GameCube, ''Animal Crossing'' sold more than both Pikmin titles combined—a considerable feat considering the original Pikmin had been available since the console's launch.
  
The preconceived story ends here.  From this point on, the story is determined by the actions of the player.
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==Regional Differences==
 +
In addition to being an upgraded re-release to the original [[Dōbutsu no Mori (game)|Dōbutsu no Mori]], there are also many differences between ''Dōbutsu no Mori+'' and ''Animal Crossing''.
  
===Basic Controls===
+
===General Changes===
''Animal Crossing'' requires players to master three different types of controls in order to play. The first two, Action and Menu controls, are intertwined in game play. With time players learn to switch between them thoughtlessly.  Typing controls were very different from the other two modes. However, it is not used nearly as frequently as the others.
+
*''Doubutsu no Mori+'' almost has the same game code as ''Animal Crossing''. ''Doubutsu no Mori+'' is GAFJ, ''Animal Crossing'' is GAFE in the US version, GAFP in the PAL version.
 +
*The dial typing system, featured in the original {{DnM}}, is retained in ''Doubutsu no Mori+''.
 +
*The player is able to transfer data from {{DnM}} into the Japanese version. This is removed in ''Animal Crossing'' due to the fact that ''Doubutsu no Mori'' was not released outside of Japan.
  
====Action and Menu Controls====
+
===Event Changes===
Most actions are performable both indoors and outdoors. However, certain actions can only be performed in certain areas. Please see the typing controls section for information on typing.
+
*Different events are featured in the games compared to Animal Crossing. Seven Spring Herbs Day, Coming of Age Day, Bean Throwing Festival, White Day, Festival of the Weaver, Summer Day, Winter Day are exclusive to the Japanese games. Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day, April Fool's Day, Nature Day, Spring Cleaning, Founder's Day, Hometown Day, Explorer's Day, the Harvest Festival, and Sale Day are all exclusive to Animal Crossing.
 +
*Villagers will wear the Summer Robe and Bamboo Robe during the Fireworks Show, and during Mushrooming Season. They will also wear the Plum Kimono and Somber Robe during certain other events. In Animal Crossing, all of these clothing items are unused.
 +
*On New Year's Day, instead of tossing a coin in the fountain, the player shakes the pole in the middle of the Bell Shrine to ring the bell.
 +
*During the Cherry Blossom Festival, villagers will picnic on tatami mats at the Bell Shrine. In Animal Crossing, they simply dance around the Wishing Well.
  
{|width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" border="1"
+
===Item Changes===
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''Control Stick'''
+
*''Doubutsu no Mori+'' features the Famicom games Gomoku Narabe and Majong, while ''Animal Crossing'' and ''Doubutsu no Mori e+'' feature the NES games Soccer and Exitebike. In addition, ''Doubutsu no Mori+'' features the Famicom Disk System version of Legend of Zelda. ''Animal Crossing'' and ''Doubutsu no Mori e+'' feature the English NES version. And you can obtain the [[Forbidden Four]] [[NES game]]s normally in the game. In ''Animal Crossing'' you need a [[cheating device]].
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
*The Ragged Wall and Old Board Floor, and Public Bath Wall and Bathroom Floor are absent from Animal Crossing.
*'''Walk''': The further the Control Stick is pressed, the faster the character will move.
+
*The Zen and Public Bath furniture themes are absent from Animal Crossing, though they appear in all later games.
*'''Move furniture''': While holding one's own furniture in one's own house by holding the A Button, move the control stick to rotate or move it. Moving towards and away from the item moves the furiture forwards or backwards. Pressing to the side of the furniture rotates it. The orientation of the character in relation to the furniture is critical.
+
*The W Shirt and the Tomato Juice Shirt are exclusive to Doubutsu no Mori and ''Doubutsu no Mori+''.
*'''Move cursor''': On menus, move the cursor around to make a selection.
+
*The New Year's Card and the Fortune Paper were redesigned for Animal Crossing.
 +
 
 +
===Area Changes===
 +
*''Doubutsu no Mori+'' features a [[Bell shrine]] in place of the [[Wishing Well]].
 +
*Tom Nook's shop, the Post Office, and the Dump have different signage containing katakana.
 +
*Igloos contain woks with bubbling blocks of tofu, as opposed to the pot of chowder seen in Animal Crossing.
 +
 
 +
===Design Changes===
 +
*In ''Doubutsu no Mori+'', [[Tortimer]] wears glasses with white blue lenses and a red hat, and in ''Animal Crossing'' and ''Doubutsu no Mori e+'' Tortimer wears glasses with clear lenses and a black hat.
 +
*[[Mr. Resetti]] and [[Don Resetti]] simply wear white shirts in ''Doubutsu no Mori+'', and wear overalls on top of the shirts in ''Animal Crossing''.
 +
*[[Tom Nook]] and [[Redd]] both have Japanese characters on their uniforms instead of their respective logos in ''Doubutsu no Mori+''.
 +
*[[Chip]] has lighter fur, gray-rimmed glasses, and squinted eyes in ''Doubutsu no Mori+''.
 +
*[[Bluebear]]'s pupils are smaller, and her muzzle is a triangular anime-esque design. In Animal Crossing, this is changed to a trapezoid shape.
 +
*[[Jane]] has white fur, brown skin, tired eyes, and large pink lips. This is changed to purple fur, pink skin and different lip and eye designs in later games to avoid racial connotations.
 +
*[[Nibbles]] has green fur instead of teal, and has freckles instead of blush.
 +
*[[Portia]]'s eyes are longer and positioned higher up on her face.
 +
*[[Ursala]] has darker hair, with thick slanted eyebrows. Her muzzle is smaller and cream colored, and her eyes are almond-shaped.
 +
*The [[Nintendo]] logo color changes. In ''Animal Crossing'' it was red, in ''Doubutsu no Mori+'' it was white, and ''Doubutsu no Mori'' has the [[Nintendo 64]] logo.
 +
 
 +
==Reception==
 +
''Animal Crossing'' was met with mostly positive reviews from critics, with many praising its charming, unique gameplay and long life span. e-Reader connectivity was seen as a welcome addition, however some criticized its outdated graphics and felt that it did not offer much of a single-player experience. {{PG|nolink}} was included in many year-end 'best of' lists upon its release in 2002. It has also been featured in several all-time top video game countdowns, and has received multiple [[Animal_Crossing_(GCN)#Awards_and_nominations|awards and nominations]]. Review aggregator Metacritic notes a Metascore of 87/100 for ''Animal Crossing''<ref>http://www.metacritic.com/game/gamecube/animal-crossing</ref>, which places it just behind {{NL}}'s score of 88.
 +
 
 +
===Awards and nominations===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
!Year
 +
!Award
 +
!Category
 +
!Result
 +
|-
 +
|rowspan=6|2002
 +
|Game Critic Award
 +
|Best Original Game of E3<ref>http://www.giantbomb.com/e3-2002/3015-3434/</ref>
 +
|{{Nom}}
 +
|-
 +
|rowspan=4|GameSpot's Best and Worst of 2002
 +
|Game of the Year<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20030201105621/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general1.html</ref>
 +
|{{Nom}}
 +
|-
 +
|Best Role-Playing Game on GameCube<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20021223103711/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/gc19.html</ref>
 +
|{{Won}}
 +
|-
 +
| Most Innovative Game<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20030210083623/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general6.html</ref>
 +
|{{Won}}
 +
|-
 +
| Funniest Game (Purposefully) <ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20021223112403/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general11.html</ref>
 +
|{{Nom}}
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''C Stick'''
+
|GameSpy's Best of 2002
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|GameCube Game of the Year<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20030628043605/http://www.gamespy.com/goty2002/gcn/index2.shtml</ref>
*'''Adjust camera''': While inside houses and museum exhibits, press in any direction to tilt the camera in that direction.
+
|{{Nom}}
*'''Do Aerobics''': While at the [[Aerobics Festival]], or while listening to the [[Aerobics Radio]], tilt to perform certain aerobic actions.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''A Button'''
+
|rowspan=7|2003
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|The Game Developers Choice Awards
The function of this button is context sensitive.
+
|Innovation Award<ref>http://www.gamechoiceawards.com/archive/innovation.html</ref>
*'''Talk''': Press while facing a character.
+
|{{Won}}
*'''Enter a building''': Press while facing a door.
 
*'''Shake tree''': Press while facing a tree.
 
*'''Read messages''': Press while facing a sign or bulletin board.
 
*'''Use item''': Press while holding an item.
 
*'''Hold furniture''': Hold while standing in front of and facing any piece of furniture while inside a home.  If the furniture is their own, players can move and rotate it using the Control Stick.
 
*'''Use furniture''': Press while standing in front of and facing a functional piece of furniture while inside a home.  For example, a player can turn on or off a television set or open a wardrobe.
 
*'''Select''': On menus, press to make a selection.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''B Button'''
+
|rowspan=6|Interactive Achievement Awards
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Innovation in Console Gaming<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20120510120906/http://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2003&idGame=339</ref>
The function of this button is context sensitive.
+
|{{Won}}
*'''Run''': Hold while pressing the Control Stick
 
*'''Pick up items''': Press the button while on top of an item to add it to the item screen. While indoors, this action can be performed on furniture or other similar, 3D items by standing in front of and facing the item. 2D items such as stationary are picked up the same way as they are picked up outside.
 
*'''Put away furniture''': Press the button while facing a piece of furniture in the character’s house to add it to the item screen.
 
*'''Cancel/Go back to the previous screen''': On menus, press to cancel, make a, “no” selection, or return to the last screen.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''L Button'''
+
|Outstanding Achievement in Game Design
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|{{Won}}
*'''Run''': Hold while pressing the Control Stick
 
*'''Stop Playing NES''': While playing an NES game, pressing the L, R, and Z, Buttons simultaneously saves and quits.
 
*'''Reset NES''': While playing an NES game, pressing the L, R, and Start Buttons simultaneously resets an NES game.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''R Button'''
+
|Console Role-Playing Game of the Year
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|{{Won}}
*'''Run''': Hold while pressing the Control Stick
 
*'''Stop Playing NES''': While playing an NES game, pressing the L, R, and Z, Buttons simultaneously saves and quits.
 
*'''Reset NES''': While playing an NES game, pressing the L, R, and Start Buttons simultaneously resets an NES game.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''X Button'''
+
|Console Game of the Year
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|{{Nom}}
*'''Check the map''': To do this, players must receive the map of the town they live in from [[Tom Nook]].  Once on the map menu, moving the Control Stick highlights different acres.  The names of the buildings and houses in that acre are shown on the right side of the map.
 
*'''NES Select''': While playing an NES game, the X and Z Buttons act as the Select Button did on the original games.  In other words, pressing them moves the cursor on the main menus.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''Y Button'''
+
|Game of the Year
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|{{Nom}}
*'''Open or close the item screen''': To do this, a player must not be in a conversation.
 
*'''Select game mode''': While playing an NES game, press to select a mode.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''Z Button'''
+
|Outstanding Achievement in Gameplay Engineering
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|{{Nom}}
*'''Light switch''': While inside player homes, this button turns the lights on and off.
 
*'''NES Select''': While playing an NES game, the X and Z Buttons act as the Select Button did on the original games.  In other words, pressing them moves the cursor on the main menus.
 
*'''Stop Playing NES''': While playing an NES game, pressing the L, R, and Z, Buttons simultaneously saves and quits.
 
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''START/PAUSE'''
 
|style="text-align:left;"|
 
*'''Open or close the item screen''': Opens or closes the item screen.
 
*'''Select game mode''': While playing an NES game, press to select a mode.
 
*'''Reset NES''': While playing an NES game, pressing the L, R, and Start Buttons simultaneously resets an NES game.
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
====Typing Controls====
+
===Top lists===
Whenever players are able to insert text, a keyboard appears at the bottom of the screen.  Controls then switch to typing mode.
+
{| class="wikitable"
 
+
|-
{|width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" border="1"
+
!Year
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''Control Stick'''
+
!Source
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
!List
*'''Choose a letter'''
+
!Placement
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''+ Control Pad'''
+
|2003
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Entertainment Weekly
*'''Move Cursor''': This action is equivalent to pressing the arrow keys while word processing.
+
|The 100 Greatest Videogames<ref>http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,450558,00.html</ref>
 +
|align="center"|72
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''A Button'''
+
|rowspan=3|2006
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Electronic Gaming Monthly
*'''Type letter'''
+
|The Greatest 200 Videogames of Their Time<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20060519133249/http://1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=2&cId=3147448</ref>
 +
|align="center"|126
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''B Button'''
+
|Nintendo Power
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Nintendo Power's Top 200 Games<ref>http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Nintendo_Power%27s_Top_200_Games</ref>
*'''Delete letter'''
+
|align="center"|51
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''L Button'''
+
|X-Play
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|10 Best GameCube Games Ever<ref>http://www.g4tv.com/videos/12007/best-gamecube-games-ever-7-5/</ref>
*'''Caps lock/unlock''': Every letter typed while in caps lock mode is capitalized.
+
|align="center"|7
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''R Button'''
+
|rowspan=2|2007
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Edge
*'''Insert Space'''
+
|Top 100 Games of All Time <ref>http://www.edge-online.com/features/edges-top-100-games-all-time/6/</ref>
 +
|align="center"|49
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''X Button'''
+
|ScrewAttack!
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Top 10 GameCube Games<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYIPS_LMxh4</ref>
*'''Accent letter''': After typing a letter that may have a pronunciation alternative, pressing this turns the letter into an accented one.  For letters with multiple accent possibilities (example: a, à, á), pressing the button multiple times applies different marks.
+
|align="center"|5
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''Y Button'''
+
|2008
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|Nintendo Power
*'''Switch keyboard''': There are three keyboards.  The first is for letters, numbers, and common punctuation, the second is for all punctuation, and the third is for special symbols such as hearts.
+
|Best of the Best - Nintendo GameCube (Top 20) <ref>http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Nintendo_Power%27s_Best_of_the_Best</ref>
 +
|align="center"|19
 
|-
 
|-
|style="text-align:center;width:10%"|'''Z Button'''
+
|2012
|style="text-align:left;"|
+
|TIME
*'''Change key layout''': This only applies to the first keyboard, which has two layouts.  The first is the standard QWERTY layout seen on computer keyboards.  The other lists letters alphabetically.
+
|All-TIME 100 greatest video games<ref>http://techland.time.com/2012/11/15/all-time-100-video-games/slide/animal-crossing-2001/</ref>
 +
|align="center"|-
 
|}
 
|}
'''NOTES:''' Selecting "SP" on the virtual keyboard adds a space.  By selecting the return arrow, players can insert carriage returns.  Carriage returns skip the rest of the current line and bring the cursor down to the next.  On computer keyboards, the enter/return keys serve this function.
 
  
===Item Screen===
+
==Gallery==
The item screen, often referred to as the inventory, is a major aspect of ''Animal Crossing's'' game play.  Using it, players can perform a variety of tasks.  These tasks include checking statistics, placing items, using items, and using designs.  The screen is divided up into four major sections
+
{{Main|Animal Crossing (GCN)/Gallery}}
  
====Main Item Screen====
+
===Screenshots===
'''Character Information'''<br />
+
<center>
In the upper left of the menu, the player's character can be seen. The clothes he or she is wearing and the tools he or she is holding are accurately reflected on the image. By selecting the character, players can remove items.  The name of the town and the character are displayed to the right.
+
<gallery>
 +
Animal Crossing-title.png|Title Screen
 +
GCNMuseum.png|The [[Museum]]
 +
Tom_nook_raffle.png|Tom Nook hosting the monthly [[Lottery]].
 +
</gallery></center>
  
'''Bells'''<br />
+
==External links==
Just below the names of the town and character is a display showing how many bells the player has in his or her wallet. The player's wallet can only hold 99,999 Bells. Players can hold more Bells by creating moneybags.  To do so, players select the Bells display and choose the amount of Bells they would like in the bag: one hundred, one thousand, ten thousand, or thirty thousand. However, moneybags are automatically created for the player if he or she earns enough Bells.  Yet, the creation of moneybags allows players to give money as presents, place it in their houses, or bury it in the ground.  Obviously, Bells stored at the Post Office cannot be used without first withdrawing them into the Bells display and the inventory.
+
*[http://web.archive.org/web/20021004080450/http://www.animal-crossing.com/index.jsp Official North American site] <small>(archived)</small>
 
+
*[http://ms.nintendo-europe.com/animalcrossing/languageselect/index.html Official European site]
'''Items'''<br />
+
*[http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendo/games/gameoverview.php?gameid=422 Official Australian page]
The player’s items are shown in the lower section of the menu. Up to fifteen items of any type can be held here.  Many actions involving items can only be done by selecting the items from this list.  Certain items, such as tools or clothes, require players to drag the item's icon onto the character before they can be used.
 
 
 
'''Letters'''<br />
 
Players can hold up to ten letters with them at any given time.  Letters can be rearranged to suit the player's preferences.  Selecting a received letter brings up a submenu that allows players to move them, read them, move an enclosed present to the inventory, or discard them.  If players select a letter they have written themselves, they can move them, rewrite them, change the addressee, remove an enclosed present, or discard them.
 
 
 
'''Tabs'''<br />
 
The tabs on the left and right edges of the menu bring up new menus.  The pencil tab on the right brings up the design page.  The fish and butterfly tabs on the right bring up the caught fish and insect lists, respectively.
 
 
 
====Fish and Insect Lists====
 
[[File:Complete Fish.jpg|thumb|The complete fish chart]]
 
These screens record any new fish or insects that have been caught. They prove very useful for players wishing to catch one of every fish or insect. Once at either list, if a player places the cursor over a fish or insect, he or she can see its name. To return to the main item screen, players select the smiley face tab.
 
 
 
====Design Page====
 
By selecting the pencil on the main item screen, players will access the design page.  This page will automatically open when a player interacts with a signboard.  This page has slots for eight patterns designed by the player or taken from the Able Sisters Shop.  When first starting the game, this menu contains four sample patterns, the clothes template, umbrella template, door template, and arrow design.  Using this screen, players can customize the town with their designs by selecting a pattern and then selecting the action they wish to perform using the sub-menu.
 
 
 
'''Use on Clothes'''<br />
 
While outside or inside, selecting this option uses the pattern as a shirt and hat for the character.  The clothes he or she was wearing will be deposited in the items section of the main item screen.  This action cannot be performed if the items section is full and the character is not wearing another pattern.
 
 
 
'''Use on Umbrella'''<br />
 
This action appears inside and outside. Any pattern can be used as an umbrella, even if the player does not have an umbrella in his or her inventory. The item the character was holding prior to the selection is moved into the inventory. Like “Use on Clothes,” this action cannot be used to replace an umbrella item if the inventory is full.  However, if another pattern is being used as an umbrella, this action still works.
 
 
 
'''Use on Walls''' and '''Use on Floor'''<br />
 
While inside their own homes, players can use their patterns as wallpapers or carpets by selection “Use on Walls” and “Use on Floor” respectively.  Patterns only cover a small portion of the floor or walls, so they are tiled repeatedly.  After selecting where to use the pattern, players are asked to “Paste as is” or “Paste all around.”  The first option places the pattern in a very basic matter, with the top of the pattern facing up or north.  The second alternates whether the top or bottom is facing up or north.  As usual, if a player's inventory is full and he or she is replacing a carpet or wallpaper item, he or she cannot use this selection as the old carpet or wallpaper is placed in the inventory.  However, if the old carpet or wallpaper was another pattern, this function works.
 
 
 
'''Drop as Clothes''' and '''Drop as Umbrella'''<br />
 
Players wishing to display their patterns in their homes as clothes and umbrellas are able to do so by selecting “Drop as Clothes” and “Drop as Umbrella” respectively.  After being dropped, these items are moveable as if they were furniture and can be removed by pressing the B Button while facing them.  However, the item disappears rather than going into the inventory.
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 +
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
 
+
<br>{{construction}}
==External links==
+
<br>{{Animal Crossing}}
* [http://animal-crossing.com/news.jsp ''Animal Crossing'' site]
 
* [http://web.archive.org/web/20021004080450/http://www.animal-crossing.com/index.jsp Archived ''Animal Crossing'' site]
 
 
 
 
 
{{Animal Crossing}}
 
 
[[Category:Video Games]]
 
[[Category:Video Games]]
 
[[Category:Animal Crossing series]]
 
[[Category:Animal Crossing series]]

Revision as of 11:59, April 16, 2018

PG Logo English.png
PG Box NA Player's Choice.jpg
Developer(s) Nintendo EAD
Publisher(s) Nintendo
Platform(s) Nintendo GameCube
Release date(s) Template:JPDecember 14, 2001
Template:NA September 16, 2002
Template:AUS October 17, 2003
Template:EU September 24, 2004
Genre(s) Life Simulation
Role-playing
Modes Single player
Media GameCube Optical Disc
Input
methods
GameCube controller
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo e-Reader

Guide at StrategyWiki

Animal Crossing (Japanese: どうぶつの森+, Dōbutsu no Mori+, lit. Animal Forest+), sometimes subtitled Population Growing, is an updated version of Doubutsu no Mori for the Nintendo 64, released for the Nintendo GameCube in Japan on December 14, 2001, just nine months after the original title, and localized for western regions in 2002. This version contains extra features that had to be left out of the Nintendo 64 version, and also utilizes the GameCube's built-in clock to keep track of the date and time while dropping the Nintendo 64's original system that utilized an internal clock built into the game cartridge. With the use of the GameCube's clock, time passes in the game even when the game is not being played. This led to the game's slogan, "It's playing, even when you're not".

During the game's localization process overseas as Animal Crossing, there were many changes that not only involved immense translation from Japanese to English, but also replacements of many cultural references as well as brand new content, including new holidays, new items and new or altered events to appeal more to western audiances. Due to its popularity, Animal Crossing became a Player's Choice title about a year after its North American release. The game was so commercially successful that it was ported back into Japanese with a few additional features and released as Doubutsu no Mori e+. Animal Crossing was also well-received by critics, and was included in many year-end 'best of' lists upon its release. It has also been featured in several all-time top video game countdowns, and has received multiple awards and nominations.

Features

Animal Crossing introduced numerous additions not present in the original Doubutsu no Mori, including new items, new mechanics, and other things.

Characters and Locations

Animal Crossing adds numerous characters and villagers into the game. For instance, the player can now travel to an island by speaking with Kapp'n at the beach, though only if a Game Boy Advance is connected to the system. Additionally, the Museum is added, allowing players to gather all of the bugs, fish, fossils, and paintings they collect to be on display for the public. The Able Sisters is also included, which allows the player to create their own custom designs.

Items

Various new furniture is added into the game, and the player can now gain additional upgrades for their house, gaining a second floor or basement. Furthermore, various bugs and fish not present in the original game are added, and the Axe, which was unbreakable in the original game, now breaks if used too often. More NES games are also added, and are explicitly labeled by the game they emulate, rather than simply being called "famicom".

Tortimer, the mayor of the Player's town, is included, who will give the player an item to celebrate any holiday in which he appears.

Stationary is also sold in packs of four, instead of one page in the original game, and the player can store more than one item in storage containers. Additionally, the player can now insert multiple airchecks into the same music player.

e-Reader connectivity

Main article: Nintendo e-Reader

Animal Crossing is the only title for the Nintendo GameCube released outside of Japan to feature support for the Nintendo e-Reader peripheral. By connecting to the e-Reader via a Nintendo GameCube Game Boy Advance Cable players can access the island, play NES games, and scan Animal Crossing-e cards to access special items, patterns, and mini-games.

North American localization

Animal Crossing introduced the concept of region-exclusive holidays and special events that would later become a series staple.

The Japanese release (Doubutsu no Mori +) features many culturally specific items and events that cater to a Japanese audience which Nintendo altered or removed in order to make the gameplay more appealing to Western players. Some examples include the transformation of the Bell Shrine into the Wishing Well and the removal of the spa items, which are typical of Japanese onsen. In an effort to preserve the game's unique real-world character, events were introduced that would be familiar to North American players, such as Groundhog's Day and Thanksgiving.

The NOA localization team began writing game dialog in early 2002, however translation of the game's hundreds of items began months earlier[1]. Unlike the extended localization and development process for recent titles in the series, Animal Crossing was localized in the short span of eight to twelve months. During this time, the team translated 30,000+ files of text[2], worked to develop new items (such as the camping gear) and added support for the Nintendo e-Reader, which was launched just two days after the game's release in North America.

Announcement and release date

On May 16, 2001[3] at Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference, a six second montage of footage from "Animal Forest" was shown to members of the media as part of a larger reel featuring upcoming Nintendo Gamecube titles[4]. The clip did not feature any dialog, however the presence of the Bell Shrine indicates that it was still early in the localization process, if not footage straight from Doubutsu no Mori+. This was the first time the game was shown in North America, and the first evidence of its English localization.

As early as October of 2001[5], Nintendo established a page on their website for Animal Forest noting it was "being optimized for its U.S. debut on the GameCube."[6] A few months later on February 28, 2002 at a Nintendo Roundtable Conference, Shigeru Miyamoto confirmed that localization of Animal Forest was "progressing and moving along quite well" with Satoru Iwata projecting it to be released "sometime in the fall."[7] About a month later on March 30, 2002 the game's name was officially changed to Animal Crossing[8], as reflected on Nintendo's website at the time.

On May 22, 2002 at Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference, an extended video was shown introducing Animal Crossing and highlighting its ability to connect with the e-Reader and Game Boy Advance[9]. Iwata also confirmed the game for September release in North America. Later that day, Animal Crossing made its second E3 appearance, this time as a playable title on the show floor[10]. It was generally overshadowed by high-profile titles, however it still snagged a third place spot on the Game Critic Award's list for Best Original Game of E3 2002[11]. Despite conflicting information on modern gaming websites[12][13], Animal Crossing's North American release date was set for September 16, 2002 as noted on its official sites[14][15] and a press release from Nintendo of America[16]. There were reports, however, that select Blockbuster Video locations had received and began renting advance copies of the game as early as September 6th[17].


Nat NH Character Icon.png
This article or section requires further research about global logistics and game studies.
You can help by investigating this topic and editing this article to include more information. Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page.
Nat NH Character Icon.png
This article or section requires further research about global logistics and game studies.
You can help by investigating this topic and editing this article to include more information. Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page.

Website and promotion

Main article: Crossing Guardian

In early September 2002 the official North American Animal Crossing website, the Crossing Guardian, went live. It mimicked a real-life newspaper and featured articles on different aspects of the game, sometimes written from the perspective of in-game characters. The site was also used to distribute secret codes for exclusive NES games as well as items from the Mario Theme.

Animal Crossing Pioneers

On August 7, 2002 Nintendo of America announced a contest whereby 125 teams of two would be selected to receive advance promotional copies of Animal Crossing[18]. The submission deadline for the contest was August 12th. To be considered for selection, applicants had to submit a written response of 50 words or less explaining why they should chosen as Pioneers. Those selected received a special Animal Crossing disc marked "for promotional use only", along with a 59 block Memory Card and a promotional Animal Crossing calendar. Pioneers received the game a month early and were expected to help Nintendo generate online buzz in advance of the title's release. Pioneers were also given exclusive access to their own web forum[19] where they could discuss amongst themselves as well as provide feedback to Nintendo representatives. At the end of the experience, the Pioneers were invited to an online chat with a few of the members of the game's localization team[20]. An analysis of the standard and promotional game disc concluded that the two were byte identical[21], meaning that no changes were made to the final version as a result of Pioneer feedback. The promotional copy and calendar have since become collector's items, selling for over $500 together on eBay as of March, 2014[22].

Sweepstakes

On August 30, 2002 Nintendo of America initiated the Animal Crossing "Deck Out Your Room" Sweepstakes. One grand prize winner received a TV, headphones, and CD player from Panasonic, a Nintendo GameCube, a Game Boy Advance, five GameCube games, five Game Boy Advance Games, two WaveBird controllers, and a one year subscription to Nintendo Power. Five first prize winners received a Nintendo GameCube, a copy of Animal Crossing, and a one year subscription to Nintendo Power[23]. The sweepstakes ended on October 15, 2002[24]. Those who registered for the sweepstakes received an Animal Crossing screensaver[25].

Commercials and trailer

Nintendo of America began its advertising campaign in early September, 2002 with the release of four live-action commercials featuring players living in an Animal Crossing world[26]. These commercials along with a trailer for the game appeared on a Preview DVD for the Nintendo GameCube that was distributed by retailers (both in North America and internationally[27]) in late 2002 and may have also been an insert in Nintendo Power magazine[28]. Video trailers for the game were also included on Interactive Multi-Game Demo Disc Versions 5[29] and 7[30], released in July and September of 2002, respectively. These game discs were sent to retailers for use in Nintendo GameCube demo kiosks.

Pricing and sales

Animal Crossing shipped with a $49.95 MSRP in North America[31]. In a press release from Nintendo of America dated October 28, 2002 the game was reported to have sold over 100,000 copies in its first four weeks of sale[32], ranking eighth in video game sales for the month of September[33]. Animal Crossing would fall off the charts the next month and would not reappear near the top of an industry-wide cumulative sales chart (monthly or otherwise) for the remainder of its life cycle, however it would remain a popular title in terms of GameCube software sales. In December of 2002, it sold over 130,000 copies[34], not far behind Super Mario Sunshine, which was released a few weeks before Animal Crossing. By October of 2004 Animal Crossing had sold upwards of 760,000 copies, making it the 11th best selling title on the system at the time[35]. On September 25th, 2003 just over a year after its initial release, Animal Crossing became a Player's Choice title, with a new MSRP of $29.99[36]. All-time sales figures place Animal Crossing as the sixth best-selling GameCube game with somewhere between 1.68[37] and 1.92[38] million units sold, just ahead of the critically acclaimed Metroid Prime. Comparing it to the Pikmin series, another new Nintendo IP debuting on the GameCube, Animal Crossing sold more than both Pikmin titles combined—a considerable feat considering the original Pikmin had been available since the console's launch.

Regional Differences

In addition to being an upgraded re-release to the original Dōbutsu no Mori, there are also many differences between Dōbutsu no Mori+ and Animal Crossing.

General Changes

  • Doubutsu no Mori+ almost has the same game code as Animal Crossing. Doubutsu no Mori+ is GAFJ, Animal Crossing is GAFE in the US version, GAFP in the PAL version.
  • The dial typing system, featured in the original Doubutsu no Mori, is retained in Doubutsu no Mori+.
  • The player is able to transfer data from Doubutsu no Mori into the Japanese version. This is removed in Animal Crossing due to the fact that Doubutsu no Mori was not released outside of Japan.

Event Changes

  • Different events are featured in the games compared to Animal Crossing. Seven Spring Herbs Day, Coming of Age Day, Bean Throwing Festival, White Day, Festival of the Weaver, Summer Day, Winter Day are exclusive to the Japanese games. Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day, April Fool's Day, Nature Day, Spring Cleaning, Founder's Day, Hometown Day, Explorer's Day, the Harvest Festival, and Sale Day are all exclusive to Animal Crossing.
  • Villagers will wear the Summer Robe and Bamboo Robe during the Fireworks Show, and during Mushrooming Season. They will also wear the Plum Kimono and Somber Robe during certain other events. In Animal Crossing, all of these clothing items are unused.
  • On New Year's Day, instead of tossing a coin in the fountain, the player shakes the pole in the middle of the Bell Shrine to ring the bell.
  • During the Cherry Blossom Festival, villagers will picnic on tatami mats at the Bell Shrine. In Animal Crossing, they simply dance around the Wishing Well.

Item Changes

  • Doubutsu no Mori+ features the Famicom games Gomoku Narabe and Majong, while Animal Crossing and Doubutsu no Mori e+ feature the NES games Soccer and Exitebike. In addition, Doubutsu no Mori+ features the Famicom Disk System version of Legend of Zelda. Animal Crossing and Doubutsu no Mori e+ feature the English NES version. And you can obtain the Forbidden Four NES games normally in the game. In Animal Crossing you need a cheating device.
  • The Ragged Wall and Old Board Floor, and Public Bath Wall and Bathroom Floor are absent from Animal Crossing.
  • The Zen and Public Bath furniture themes are absent from Animal Crossing, though they appear in all later games.
  • The W Shirt and the Tomato Juice Shirt are exclusive to Doubutsu no Mori and Doubutsu no Mori+.
  • The New Year's Card and the Fortune Paper were redesigned for Animal Crossing.

Area Changes

  • Doubutsu no Mori+ features a Bell shrine in place of the Wishing Well.
  • Tom Nook's shop, the Post Office, and the Dump have different signage containing katakana.
  • Igloos contain woks with bubbling blocks of tofu, as opposed to the pot of chowder seen in Animal Crossing.

Design Changes

  • In Doubutsu no Mori+, Tortimer wears glasses with white blue lenses and a red hat, and in Animal Crossing and Doubutsu no Mori e+ Tortimer wears glasses with clear lenses and a black hat.
  • Mr. Resetti and Don Resetti simply wear white shirts in Doubutsu no Mori+, and wear overalls on top of the shirts in Animal Crossing.
  • Tom Nook and Redd both have Japanese characters on their uniforms instead of their respective logos in Doubutsu no Mori+.
  • Chip has lighter fur, gray-rimmed glasses, and squinted eyes in Doubutsu no Mori+.
  • Bluebear's pupils are smaller, and her muzzle is a triangular anime-esque design. In Animal Crossing, this is changed to a trapezoid shape.
  • Jane has white fur, brown skin, tired eyes, and large pink lips. This is changed to purple fur, pink skin and different lip and eye designs in later games to avoid racial connotations.
  • Nibbles has green fur instead of teal, and has freckles instead of blush.
  • Portia's eyes are longer and positioned higher up on her face.
  • Ursala has darker hair, with thick slanted eyebrows. Her muzzle is smaller and cream colored, and her eyes are almond-shaped.
  • The Nintendo logo color changes. In Animal Crossing it was red, in Doubutsu no Mori+ it was white, and Doubutsu no Mori has the Nintendo 64 logo.

Reception

Animal Crossing was met with mostly positive reviews from critics, with many praising its charming, unique gameplay and long life span. e-Reader connectivity was seen as a welcome addition, however some criticized its outdated graphics and felt that it did not offer much of a single-player experience. Animal Crossing was included in many year-end 'best of' lists upon its release in 2002. It has also been featured in several all-time top video game countdowns, and has received multiple awards and nominations. Review aggregator Metacritic notes a Metascore of 87/100 for Animal Crossing[39], which places it just behind Animal Crossing: New Leaf's score of 88.

Awards and nominations

Year Award Category Result
2002 Game Critic Award Best Original Game of E3[40] Nominated
GameSpot's Best and Worst of 2002 Game of the Year[41] Nominated
Best Role-Playing Game on GameCube[42] Won
Most Innovative Game[43] Won
Funniest Game (Purposefully) [44] Nominated
GameSpy's Best of 2002 GameCube Game of the Year[45] Nominated
2003 The Game Developers Choice Awards Innovation Award[46] Won
Interactive Achievement Awards Innovation in Console Gaming[47] Won
Outstanding Achievement in Game Design Won
Console Role-Playing Game of the Year Won
Console Game of the Year Nominated
Game of the Year Nominated
Outstanding Achievement in Gameplay Engineering Nominated

Top lists

Year Source List Placement
2003 Entertainment Weekly The 100 Greatest Videogames[48] 72
2006 Electronic Gaming Monthly The Greatest 200 Videogames of Their Time[49] 126
Nintendo Power Nintendo Power's Top 200 Games[50] 51
X-Play 10 Best GameCube Games Ever[51] 7
2007 Edge Top 100 Games of All Time [52] 49
ScrewAttack! Top 10 GameCube Games[53] 5
2008 Nintendo Power Best of the Best - Nintendo GameCube (Top 20) [54] 19
2012 TIME All-TIME 100 greatest video games[55] -

Gallery

Main article: Animal Crossing (GCN)/Gallery

Screenshots

External links

References

  1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgg62DMyzyA&t=1m13s
  2. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hands-on-preview/2855/animal-crossing-gamecube
  3. http://www.ign.com/articles/2001/05/10/nintendo-pre-e3-press-conference-details-2
  4. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGepCTXT0wA&t=6m0s
  5. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/6621/animal-forest-usa-bound
  6. https://web.archive.org/web/20011123183306/http://nintendo.com/games/gamepage/gamepage_main.jsp?gameId=646&showMe=1
  7. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7060/animal-forest--coming-to-north-america
  8. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7196/animal-forest--gets-a-name-change
  9. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uzTeRvm1Uo&t=15m9s
  10. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/hands-on-preview/2855/animal-crossing-gamecube
  11. http://www.giantbomb.com/e3-2002/3015-3434/
  12. http://www.gamefaqs.com/gamecube/516502-animal-crossing
  13. http://www.ign.com/games/action-replay-ultimate-codes-animal-crossing/gcn-16562
  14. https://web.archive.org/web/20030213033234/http://www.nintendo.com/games/gamepage/gamepage_main.jsp?gameId=646&showMe=1
  15. https://web.archive.org/web/20020911113240/http://www.animal-crossing.com/parents.jsp
  16. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7622/lucky-gamers-play-animal-crossing-early
  17. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7731/animal-crossing-hits-blockbuster-early
  18. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7622/lucky-gamers-play-animal-crossing-early
  19. https://web.archive.org/web/20021022162833/http://www.nintendo.com/animalcrossing/index.jsp
  20. http://www.mobygames.com/forums/dga,2/dgb,8/dgm,63261/
  21. http://redump.org/disc/5169/
  22. http://www.ebay.com/itm/301124433392?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649
  23. https://web.archive.org/web/20020903184841/http://www.animal-crossing.com/sweeps/index.jsp
  24. https://web.archive.org/web/20020923023614/http://www.animal-crossing.com/sweeps/rules.jsp
  25. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7734/deck-out-your-room
  26. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7756/animal-crossing-commercials
  27. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIuQsSDVZPs
  28. http://www.destructoid.com/blogs/The+Bowels+of+Trogdor/the-gamecube-promo-dvd-trailers-done-right-developers-take-notes--267660.phtml
  29. http://www.ign.com/games/interactive-multi-game-demo-disc-july-2002-142703/gcn-490225
  30. http://www.ign.com/games/interactive-multi-game-demo-disc-version-7-142714/gcn-492650
  31. https://web.archive.org/web/20020911113240/http://www.animal-crossing.com/parents.jsp
  32. http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/7951/animal-crossing-e-cards-released
  33. http://web.archive.org/web/20090120102407/http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=marketData&content=topgamesellers&chartdate=9%2F1%2F2002&Submit=Go
  34. http://forum.beyond3d.com/archive/index.php/t-3020.html
  35. http://www.videogame.it/forum/t/152967/.html
  36. http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news100903playerschoice
  37. http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-USPlatinum.shtml
  38. http://www.vgchartz.com/game/81/animal-crossing/
  39. http://www.metacritic.com/game/gamecube/animal-crossing
  40. http://www.giantbomb.com/e3-2002/3015-3434/
  41. http://web.archive.org/web/20030201105621/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general1.html
  42. http://web.archive.org/web/20021223103711/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/gc19.html
  43. http://web.archive.org/web/20030210083623/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general6.html
  44. http://web.archive.org/web/20021223112403/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general11.html
  45. http://web.archive.org/web/20030628043605/http://www.gamespy.com/goty2002/gcn/index2.shtml
  46. http://www.gamechoiceawards.com/archive/innovation.html
  47. http://web.archive.org/web/20120510120906/http://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2003&idGame=339
  48. http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,450558,00.html
  49. http://web.archive.org/web/20060519133249/http://1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=2&cId=3147448
  50. http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Nintendo_Power%27s_Top_200_Games
  51. http://www.g4tv.com/videos/12007/best-gamecube-games-ever-7-5/
  52. http://www.edge-online.com/features/edges-top-100-games-all-time/6/
  53. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYIPS_LMxh4
  54. http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Nintendo_Power%27s_Best_of_the_Best
  55. http://techland.time.com/2012/11/15/all-time-100-video-games/slide/animal-crossing-2001/


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