How to Get Isabelle on Your Island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Isabelle in the Town Hall building.

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, many NPCs bring life to your island, some familiar from previous games and others brand-new. One standout favorite is Isabelle, but she won’t be present when you first begin the game. If you’re wondering how to invite Isabelle to your island, you’re in the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to bringing Isabelle to your Animal Crossing paradise.

Complete Key Projects for Tom Nook

Nook's Cranny.
Nook’s Cranny.

To unlock Isabelle, you’ll need to work through a series of major projects for Tom Nook, all centered around transforming your deserted island into a bustling community. These projects serve as the game’s main progression path and include:

  • Build the Museum: Donate five creatures to Tom Nook to unlock Blathers’ arrival and later, the Museum building.
  • Construct the Shop: Provide Timmy and Tommy with the required materials (30 Wood, 30 Softwood, 30 Hardwood, and 30 Iron Nuggets).
  • Build Three Houses: Follow Tom Nook’s instructions to prepare land plots, craft furniture, and welcome new residents.

Completing these tasks will trigger a significant upgrade: the Resident Services tent will be scheduled for renovation. This process takes two real-world days to complete, and the upgraded Resident Services building is essential for Isabelle’s arrival.

How Does Isabelle Move In?

Once the Resident Services tent has been upgraded to a full-fledged building, Tom Nook will announce new island updates during his daily news broadcast. One of these updates will reveal that Isabelle has officially joined the island as a new employee.

After moving in, Isabelle takes over various administrative and customization tasks, which she manages from inside the Resident Services building. Here’s what you can do with Isabelle’s help:

  • Change the Island Tune: Create or update your island’s theme music.
  • Change the Island Flag: Customize your island’s flag to match your style.
  • Discuss Island Residents: Report problematic residents or adjust villagers’ behaviors.

From this point onward, Isabelle will replace Tom Nook as the host of the daily morning announcements, bringing her cheerful energy to every new day on your island.

Isabelle’s Role in Your Island Life

Beyond her administrative duties, Isabelle adds a touch of charm to your island with her updates and services. Whether you’re customizing your island’s aesthetic or resolving minor disputes, Isabelle becomes an integral part of your daily gameplay experience.

Building and improving your island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons involves completing various exciting tasks. If you’re looking to enhance accessibility, check out our guides on how to build inclines, which allow you to climb cliffs without a ladder, and how to build bridges to easily cross rivers. For a fun activity, learn how to shoot down balloons and collect their floating gifts to add unique items to your inventory!

Have you met Isabelle on your island yet? Let us know your thoughts on this guide or share your experiences in the comments below!

 

enricofairme

Enricofairme, founder of Hold to Reset, has spent over six years creating in-depth gaming guides, reviews, and news for a global audience. Passionate about gaming trends and player experiences, he covers everything from AAA titles to indie gems. Follow him on X for real-time gaming updates and insights.

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