How to Get the Island Designer App in Animal Crossing

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the Island Designer app is a powerful tool that allows players to customize their island layout extensively. Here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain and use the Island Designer app, along with tips for making the most out of it.

Step 1: Unlocking the Island Designer App

To access the Island Designer app, players need to first unlock it by progressing through the game. Here’s how to do it:

1. Complete Tom Nook’s Initial Quests: When you start the game, you’ll need to follow Tom Nook’s initial quests, which include tasks like setting up your tent, crafting basic items, and starting to pay off your first loan.
2. Upgrade Your House: Once you’ve made progress with Tom Nook’s tasks, you’ll need to upgrade your house from a tent to a house. This will involve paying off a series of loans and expanding your living space.
3. Pay Off Your Second Loan: After upgrading your house, you’ll need to pay off a second loan for the next upgrade, which will also increase your house size.
4. Meet the Requirements for Resident Services: The Resident Services building must be upgraded to its full form, which means Tom Nook’s tent will eventually be replaced by a permanent building. This upgrade involves completing a variety of tasks and inviting more villagers to your island.

Step 2: Unlocking the Island Designer App

1. Reach the 3-Star Island Rating: To unlock the Island Designer app, you need to achieve a 3-star rating for your island. This requires improving the island’s infrastructure, inviting more villagers, and creating a more appealing environment.
2. Speak to Isabelle: Once your island reaches the 3-star rating, speak to Isabelle at the Resident Services building. She will inform you that the Island Designer app is now available for download.
3. Purchase the App: The app is available for purchase from the Nook Stop terminal in Resident Services. It costs 5,000 Nook Miles, which can be earned through various in-game activities.

Step 3: Using the Island Designer App

The Island Designer app allows you to perform a variety of tasks that can greatly enhance your island. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Accessing the App: Open your NookPhone by pressing the ‘+’ button on your controller. Select the Island Designer app from your list of apps.

2. Choose Your Project: The app provides several tools for different customization tasks, such as:

   • Path Construction: Create custom paths and walkways across your island.
   • Water Scaping: Alter the shape of rivers and ponds or create new ones.
   • Cliff Construction: Build and modify cliffs to change the island’s topography.
   • Terraforming: Combine the above tools to create intricate island layouts.

3. Utilize Design Kits: You can use different design kits to refine your island further. These include:

   • Paving Kits: For adding different types of paths and pavements.
   • Fencing Kits: For placing various types of fences around your island.
   • Customization Kits: For adjusting the appearance of existing elements.

4. Save Your Progress: Regularly save your progress to avoid losing any changes. The app allows you to undo and redo actions, which is helpful if you make a mistake.

Step 4: Tips for Effective Island Design

1. Plan Ahead: Before making major changes, plan your island layout to avoid unnecessary modifications. Sketch out your ideas or use online tools to visualize your design.
2. Use the Grid: Take advantage of the grid system for aligning paths and structures precisely.
3. Incorporate Themes: Consider adopting specific themes for different areas of your island, such as a tropical beach, a rustic countryside, or a bustling town center.
4. Consult Online Resources: There are many online communities and resources where players share their designs and tips. Join forums or social media groups to get inspiration and advice.

Step 5: Maintaining and Updating Your Island

1. Regular Updates: Keep your island fresh by regularly updating its design. Add new features, decorations, and seasonal items to keep it engaging.
2. Solicit Feedback: Ask friends or other players for feedback on your island design. They might offer valuable insights or suggestions for improvement.
3. Participate in Events: Take part in in-game events and seasonal activities to add unique elements to your island.

In summary, obtaining and using the Island Designer app in Animal Crossing: New Horizons involves progressing through the game, reaching a certain rating, and making a purchase. By following the steps outlined above, players can unlock and effectively use the app to create a personalized and aesthetically pleasing island. Happy designing!