How to Get the Island Designer App in Animal Crossing: New Horizons

In "Animal Crossing: New Horizons," the Island Designer app is a crucial tool for personalizing and enhancing your island. It allows players to terraform their islands, creating custom paths, cliffs, and waterscapes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to unlock and make the most of the Island Designer app.

1. Meet Tom Nook's Requirements
To get started with the Island Designer app, you need to advance through the early stages of the game. Begin by completing the initial tasks assigned by Tom Nook, the island’s resident representative. This involves setting up your tent, establishing the island’s infrastructure, and inviting other villagers. You'll need to pay off your initial loan and contribute to the island's development.

2. Upgrade Your House
One of the requirements to access the Island Designer app is upgrading your house. After paying off the initial loan, you'll be given the option to expand your house. This expansion allows for more storage and additional customization options, including the island's landscape. Ensure you have enough Bells, the in-game currency, to cover the cost of these upgrades.

3. Unlock the Resident Services Upgrade
The Island Designer app becomes available once Resident Services is upgraded to a building. This upgrade occurs after you have completed several tasks, including inviting a certain number of villagers to your island. The upgrade will transform the tent-like Resident Services into a more permanent and functional building.

4. Pay the Upgrade Fee
Once Resident Services is upgraded, you’ll need to pay an additional fee to access the Island Designer app. This fee is usually in Bells and is required to unlock the app's full functionality. Keep an eye on Tom Nook’s announcements, as he will provide details about the cost and how to make the payment.

5. Visit the Nook Stop Terminal
The Island Designer app is available for download from the Nook Stop terminal, located inside the upgraded Resident Services building. Use the terminal to access the app, which will be listed under the "Redeem Nook Miles" section. Ensure you have enough Nook Miles, the game's rewards currency, as you will need to redeem them to download the app.

6. Explore the Island Designer App
After unlocking the app, explore its features to understand how it can enhance your island. The app includes options for creating custom paths, adjusting the island’s elevation, and designing water features. Take your time to experiment with these tools, as they offer a high degree of customization.

7. Customize Your Island
With the Island Designer app, you can now start customizing your island’s terrain. This includes creating and removing paths, placing and modifying cliffs, and adjusting bodies of water. The app provides a variety of tools to help you shape your island according to your preferences.

8. Use Custom Designs
The app also allows you to use custom designs to personalize your island further. Upload custom patterns and designs to create unique paths and decorations. These designs can be downloaded from other players or created yourself, adding a personal touch to your island.

9. Save and Share Your Designs
Once you’ve created your ideal island layout, remember to save your designs. You can also share them with other players, allowing others to experience your creative work. Consider joining online communities to exchange ideas and inspirations with fellow players.

10. Regular Updates and Maintenance
The Island Designer app receives regular updates that add new features and tools. Stay updated with the latest news from the game to take advantage of these new additions. Regularly maintain your island’s design to keep it fresh and exciting for both yourself and visiting players.

By following these steps, you can unlock and make the most of the Island Designer app in "Animal Crossing: New Horizons." Enjoy the creative freedom it offers and transform your island into a unique and personalized paradise.