Description

"Dōbutsu no Mori" (later known internationally as "Animal Crossing"), developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64, was first released in Japan in 2001. In this innovative life simulation game, players step into the shoes of a customizable character who moves into a rural village populated with anthropomorphic animals. The game breaks from traditional video game formulas by using a real-time clock and calendar, meaning the flow of life in the game parallels the real world, with seasons changing, day turning to night, and various events happening in sync with real-time. Players engage in various activities such as fishing, bug catching, fossil hunting, and befriending villagers. The game's open-ended nature allows players to spend their in-game time engaging in various tasks at their own pace, ranging from decorating their home to paying off the mortgage given by Tom Nook, the town shop owner.

"Dōbutsu no Mori" was initially developed for the Nintendo 64, which was near the end of its lifecycle, leading to it also being adapted for the newer Nintendo GameCube (Dōbutsu no Mori+) which allowed for enhanced graphics and additional features not possible on the N64 due to hardware limitations. The GameCube version was also the basis for the game's English translation and international release as "Animal Crossing." The innovative nature of "Dōbutsu no Mori," with its non-linear gameplay and real-time progression, marked a significant deviation from traditional game design. It laid the groundwork for a beloved franchise that would enjoy success across subsequent Nintendo platforms. The game is fondly remembered for its charming, peaceful gameplay and its ability to mash together daily routine with unique, unpredictable events.