What Species is CJ in Animal Crossing?
The direct answer to the question is that CJ is a beaver in the Animal Crossing series, specifically in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. While his appearance might sometimes lead to confusion, especially with his close friend Flick, CJ is undeniably a beaver. He’s easily recognized by his flat tail, buck teeth, and generally rounded features, all classic characteristics of beavers. His role as the host of the Fishing Tourney, his love for fish, and the fact that he’s the son of Chip, a previous Fishing Tourney host who was also a beaver, further confirms his species.
The Role of CJ in Animal Crossing: New Horizons
More Than Just a Vendor
CJ isn’t just another character in the game; he plays a crucial role in the fishing aspect of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Beyond the usual villagers, CJ visits the player’s island randomly, not announced by Isabelle, and remains for a full 24-hour cycle (from 5 AM to 5 AM the next day). This gives players ample time to interact with him. During these visits, he offers two main services:
- Purchasing Fish: CJ buys fish from the player at 150% of the normal Nook’s Cranny price. This makes him an invaluable resource for quickly earning Bells. Players often hoard their catches in anticipation of his arrival.
- Commissioning Fish Models: CJ can create models of fish you’ve caught. These detailed models can be used for home decorations, collections, or even to add flair to your island.
The Fishing Tourney Host
C.J is not only a regular vendor but also the host of the Fishing Tourney. This event takes place every second Saturday during specific months of the year. During the tourney, players compete to catch the most fish, aiming for high scores and rewards. This adds a competitive element to fishing in the game and provides another great reason to look out for CJ.
CJ and Flick: The Dynamic Duo
Business Partners and Roommates
The close relationship between CJ and Flick, the bug-loving chameleon, often leads to speculation. However, Nintendo has clarified that they are roommates and business partners, not a romantic couple. While this has disappointed some players, their partnership is an integral part of the game. Flick provides artistic support to CJ’s streaming business by creating amazing artwork that is shared with fishing enthusiasts.
A Queer Reading
While not officially confirmed, many fans read Flick and CJ as a queer couple. Dialogue hints and the natural ease with which they interact have fueled this perception. However, it’s crucial to understand that this interpretation is based on the player’s perspective, as their relationship is explicitly described as a friendship and a professional collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about CJ, designed to clarify any confusion and provide additional insights:
1. Is CJ an otter?
No, CJ is not an otter. He is a beaver, characterized by his flat tail, buck teeth, and rounded physique.
2. Does CJ pay more for sea creatures?
No, CJ does not pay more for sea creatures. He only buys fish. Sea creatures are a separate category of critter that can be sold at Nook’s Cranny.
3. Who is CJ’s father?
Chip is CJ’s father. Chip hosted the Fishing Tourneys in previous Animal Crossing games, before CJ replaced him in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
4. How do I know if CJ is on my island?
CJ’s visits are random, and Isabelle does not announce his arrival. Players need to check their island daily to see if he is visiting.
5. How long does CJ stay on my island?
When CJ visits outside of a Fishing Tourney, he will stay for a full 24 hours, from 5 AM one day to 5 AM the next day.
6. Are CJ and Flick a couple?
Nintendo officially states that CJ and Flick are roommates and business partners, not romantically involved. However, many players interpret their relationship as queer.
7. Are CJ’s fish prices better than Nook’s Cranny?
Yes, CJ pays 1.5x the normal Nook’s Cranny price for all fish you sell to him.
8. What fish does CJ pay most for?
CJ pays the most for rare fish, such as the Golden Trout and the Stringfish, with the Golden Trout fetching 22,500 Bells.
9. Can I sell fish to CJ?
Yes, you can sell fish to CJ for 1.5x their usual selling price.
10. What does CJ stand for?
It’s theorized that CJ stands for “Chip Junior,” as he is the son of Chip and uses his catchphrase “nyuk, nyuk.”
11. Does Isabelle announce CJ visiting my island?
No, Isabelle does not announce CJ’s visits. Unlike some other special visitors, his appearance is unannounced.
12. Can CJ make sea creature models?
No, CJ cannot make sea creature models. He only makes fish models.
13. How often does CJ host the Fishing Tourney?
CJ hosts the Fishing Tourney every second Saturday during specific months of the year.
14. Why do people ship CJ and Flick?
Some players “ship” CJ and Flick because of their close relationship and supportive interactions, even though they’re only officialy partners in business and roommates. This interpretation aligns with a queer reading of their relationship.
15. Should I sell fish to CJ or Nook’s Cranny?
You should always sell your fish to CJ when he visits, as he pays 1.5x the normal selling price compared to Nook’s Cranny.
Conclusion
In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, CJ, the beaver, provides essential services that make fishing a lucrative and enjoyable part of the game. While his partnership with Flick is a central part of his character, CJ stands out as a unique vendor and tournament host. Understanding his role, species, and relationship with other characters enhances the player’s experience in the game. Always keep an eye out for CJ on your island; you never know when he’ll arrive with a great offer for your fish collection!