
Nintendo has announced that a new Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream game is coming our way on 16 April, and Nintendo Switch console users will be able to experience the Sim-like island life in exciting new ways. You can pre-order the game right now via the Nintendo eShop for $59.99 / £49.99.
A lot like Animal Crossing, as well as the upcoming Pokémon Pokopia game coming soon, Tomodachi Life is a cosy social simulation game that unfolds based on choices and customisations made by the user. Build your island, have full control over your villagers, and make design choices on a daily basis.
Similar to Miitopia, custom-designed Mii characters are the stars of the show and are free to explore friendships, relationships, and life on the island, even while the user is not actively playing the game (day and night mimic a real-life timezone).
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One major change that arguably has gamers the most excited, however, is the fact that you can now choose each Mii’s gender identity and dating preferences. For the first time, and unlike the original Tomodachi Life released in 2013, Miis can have relationships with same-sex characters and with Nonbinary Miis should the user choose. Heck, you can even create an alien if you want.
Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream Direct 1.29.2026 – YouTube
By allowing this, Nintendo has made good on its promises to do better and be more inclusive, after same-sex relations were eradicated and considered a “bug” in the last game, released over a decade ago in 2013 on the Nintendo 3DS system.
There are more advanced island customisation options this time around, with the option to design a pet to follow a specific Mii character around, design building exteriors, and even create latte foam art.
Nintendo Direct events used to be a singular showcase for major new products and games coming our way, but now they seem to be held more frequently for individual announcements. Yesterday, the almost 25-minute-long presentation shared details about the upcoming Tomodachi Life title exclusively (which you can watch above).
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Are you excited by the new Tomodachi Life announcement? If you haven’t already, check out my guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories and make sure you’re prepared with everything you need for launch day.
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