Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers players a delightful way to customize their island experience through physical collectors items known as Amiibo cards. These specialized cards allow fans to summon specific villagers and iconic personalities directly into their game world with a quick scan. Understanding how to scan these cards properly can save players time and help them curate their dream island roster without waiting for random campsite visitors.
Setting Up the Nook Stop Terminal for Scanning
Before you can invite characters to your island, you must first unlock the Nook Stop terminal inside Resident Services. Accessing the scanning feature requires completing the initial upgraded Resident Services building milestone and setting up the official campsite. Once the campsite is functional, the option to invite an Amiibo camper will permanently appear on the terminal menu.
To begin the scanning process, select the Invite Amiibo option at the terminal while holding your desired card. Hold the card steadily over the NFC touchpoint, which is located on the right Joy-Con controller or near the center of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. A successful scan will instantly register the character in your game and trigger a brief introductory dialogue scene.
Inviting Villagers to the Campsite and Crafting Items
Scanning a standard villager card prompts them to visit your campsite immediately on that exact day. Upon visiting their tent, the camper will request a specific DIY souvenir item for you to craft before they consider moving to your island. You must speak with the visitor, receive their requested recipe, and deliver the crafted item before the day ends.
Recruiting a villager using Amiibo cards requires a bit of patience and consistency over multiple days. You must repeat the scanning, crafting, and inviting process on three separate days to convince the character to become a permanent resident. On the third day, after handing over their final requested gift, the villager will accept your invitation and let you choose which existing neighbor to replace if your island is full.
Summoning Special Characters at Photopia and The Roost
In addition to regular villagers, players can use special Amiibo cards representing iconic figures like Isabelle, Tom Nook, or K.K. Slider. While these special characters cannot move into residential plots, scanning them unlocks unique features in other island venues. For example, visiting Harvey's island allows you to invite special guests into Photopia for customized photo shoots and poster unlocks.
Players can also utilize special cards inside Brewster's cafe, The Roost, to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee with favorite characters. Scanning a card at the yellow telephone in the cafe brings that specific character inside, often accompanied by their friends or family members. These interactive moments offer rare, charming dialogue and provide dedicated fans with deeper insight into the lore of their favorite island figures.
