A dedicated Animal Crossing: New Horizons fan just took their commitment and immersion to the next level through specialized iPhone mods. The complex and adorable customization job has turned this fan's standard handheld into the iconic NookPhone.
In the latest Animal Crossing entry, players were given the opportunity to build a community on a vacant and picturesque island. Of course, like in every Animal Crossing game, the ever-watching Tom Nook always has to have a piece of the pie, which he is able to do by developing (through some unknown machinations) a fully functioning mobile device for the player to use. This device, known as the NookPhone, features all of the expected smartphone staples (camera, messenger, etc.) alongside a few signature applications like the Nook Shopping Catalog, Mr. Nook's version of Amazon. Many fans fell in love with the NookPhone as not just a clever way of displaying the UI and menu system, but as a cute addition to Animal Crossing lore.
On June 26, 2021, user summa-awilum excitedly made a post on the Animal Crossing subreddit showing off their real-life version of the iconic and customizable NookPhone. In the screen-capture video, viewers can take in the recognizable minimalist and tropical-themed art style of the NookPhone. These visuals shine through on the lock screen of the iPhone, as well as through the perfectly recreated application icons; some apps have had their icons replaced with ones from the game (the NookMiles icon replacing the Google Maps icon, for instance) while others, such as the Notes, Clock, and Reminders apps, have had their icons replaced with similar pop art-style graphics.
The changes to the vanilla iPhone design don't stop there, though. Upon entering the home screen, summa-awilum is treated to a friendly message from Isabelle, Animal Crossing's canine Resident Services assistant and secretary. This creates even further parity between this modified iPhone and the experience of playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Other charming details include an animated cartoon wave graphic on the home screen and a darkened color scheme that kicks in when putting the phone into Do Not Disturb mode.
This customization endeavor is far from the first (and likely far from the last) real-world expression of fans' affection for the Animal Crossing: New Horizons world. The adorable, cozy, and straightforward game arrived at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, just when many people needed it most. Through this, a passionate and steadfast community of fans has formed around the title in a way that is not often seen in gaming. As long as fans like summa-awilum stay involved with the community, people will not be likely to forget about Animal Crossing: New Horizons any time soon.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is currently available on Nintendo Switch.
Source: summa-awilum/Reddit