Diving Deep: Why Can’t I Swim in Animal Crossing?
So, you’re itching to explore the cerulean depths of your island paradise in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, but your avatar is stubbornly refusing to take the plunge? The most common reason you can’t swim in Animal Crossing is because you haven’t equipped a wetsuit. Unlike previous Animal Crossing games, swimming isn’t a default ability. You need the right gear to get started! Let’s dive into the details!
Getting Your Feet Wet: The Wetsuit Requirement
The key to unlocking underwater exploration is the wetsuit. Think of it as your diving permit! Without it, the ocean remains off-limits. Once you have a wetsuit, just equip it like any other clothing item. Press X to open your inventory, select the wetsuit, and choose the “Wear” option. Now you’re ready to swim!
Where to Find Your Essential Swimwear
There are two primary ways to snag a wetsuit:
- Nook’s Cranny: Head to your local Nook’s Cranny. If you’ve unlocked the upgraded version of the shop, you’ll usually find a wetsuit for sale in the cabinet (the glass case where they sell tools). Wetsuits from Nook’s Cranny typically cost 3,000 Bells.
- Nook Shopping App: Alternatively, you can order wetsuits through the Nook Shopping app on your NookPhone. Keep an eye out for special designs and limited-time wetsuits that rotate through the daily selection.
Types of Wetsuits
While functionality remains the same, wetsuits come in different styles and colors. Some common types include:
- Striped Wetsuit
- Horizontal-Striped Wetsuit
- Nook Inc. Wetsuit
Taking the Plunge: How to Enter the Water
With your wetsuit donned, head to the beach! You can enter the water in two ways:
- Walking Directly In: Simply walk towards the ocean’s edge until your character automatically starts swimming.
- Jumping from the Pier or Rocks: You can also jump into the water from the pier or any of the rocky outcroppings along the shoreline. This is a fun way to get a quick start on your underwater adventure.
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions About Swimming
Let’s address some frequently asked questions to ensure you’re fully prepared to become an aquatic explorer in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
1. Do I need a snorkel to swim?
No, a snorkel isn’t essential for swimming, but it is a fun accessory! Nintendo gifted players a snorkeling mask when the swimming update was released. It is a fun way to personalize your character’s look, but the wetsuit is what enables you to swim and dive.
2. Can I swim at night?
Absolutely! The ocean is open for exploration 24 hours a day. Swimming at night can be particularly rewarding. Some sea creatures are more active at night, typically after 9 PM and are available in the waters until 4 AM.
3. Where do I find the snorkel?
The snorkel mask can be purchased from Mabel (before Able Sisters opens) or at the Able Sisters shop for 700 Bells once it’s established on your island. Goggles are also available from Mabel, or from the Able Sisters shop, and they cost 560 Bells. Both are seasonal items and may not be available year-round.
4. What can I find while swimming and diving?
The ocean is teeming with marine life! You can collect a variety of sea creatures such as:
- Seaweed
- Sea Anemones
- Sea Stars
- Various types of shellfish
You can also find pearls, which are used in crafting special mermaid-themed furniture.
5. How do I dive underwater?
To dive, press the Y button when you see bubbles rising from the seabed. Your character will plunge underwater, allowing you to swim towards the shadow of the sea creature.
6. How do I catch sea creatures?
When you’re close enough to the shadow, press the Y button again to scoop up the sea creature. Be quick, some creatures move fast!
7. What’s the rarest sea creature to find?
The Gigas Giant Clam is considered the rarest and most valuable sea creature.
8. What’s the best time of day to dive?
Many experienced divers recommend diving around 9 PM. At this time, every available sea creature is available. This provides the best chance of finding rare creatures.
9. How do I get 30 iron nuggets quickly?
While this isn’t directly related to swimming, iron nuggets are crucial for island development! Here’s a quick method:
- Purchase a Nook Miles ticket from the Nook Stop terminal.
- Visit the airport on your island.
- Use your Nook Miles ticket to visit a deserted island.
- Search for rocks and hit them with your shovel or ax.
- Collect any Iron Nuggets that pop out of the rocks.
10. Why do I float back up when trying to dive deeper?
This is a limitation of the game mechanics, not a realistic physics simulation. In real life, you float back up because your body is less dense than the water you swim in. However, within the game’s design, your character will automatically resurface after a short period underwater.
11. How long does it take for Blathers to move in?
Once you’ve donated five fish or bugs to Tom Nook, Blathers will arrive and set up his tent the next day. After donating 15 more items to Blathers, he’ll begin the process of establishing the museum.
12. How do I get to the other side of the river on my island?
Initially, you’ll need a Vaulting Pole to cross rivers. You’ll unlock the recipe for the Vaulting Pole early in the game. Later, you can build bridges to create permanent crossings. It is recommended to place bridges close to the river mouth.
13. Can I swim in other players’ islands?
Yes! As long as you have your wetsuit, you can swim and dive in the oceans surrounding other players’ islands.
14. What if I lose my wetsuit?
Don’t panic! You can always purchase another wetsuit from Nook’s Cranny or order one through the Nook Shopping app. It’s always a good idea to have a spare!
15. Is there anything I can’t do while swimming?
You cannot use tools other than diving and catching sea creatures. You also cannot enter buildings or interact with villagers while in the water.
Swimming in Animal Crossing: A Rewarding Experience
Swimming and diving add a whole new dimension to Animal Crossing: New Horizons. You’ll discover a vibrant underwater world filled with fascinating creatures, valuable resources, and endless opportunities for exploration. So, grab your wetsuit, take the plunge, and enjoy the underwater delights your island has to offer!
Remember that playing video games can be a fun and educational experience. Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for more information on how games can be used in education and research. You can access their resources on their website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.