Translation guide
Animal Crossing is a popular life simulation video game series by Nintendo. In Japanese, the title is どうぶつの森 (Dōbutsu no Mori), literally 'Animal Forest'. When referring to the game, use the Japanese title. The English title is also widely recognized among Japanese gamers.
Animal Crossing (the game series)
Official Japanese title
Referring to the Animal Crossing game franchise
The official Japanese title of the series. Use this in all contexts when speaking Japanese.
Animal Crossing is a popular Nintendo game.
I bought the latest Animal Crossing.
The full title of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Often abbreviated as あつ森.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons was a huge hit worldwide.
Common abbreviation for あつまれ どうぶつの森 (New Horizons). Used in casual conversation and online.
Yesterday I was playing Animal Crossing all day.
The English title is understood by many Japanese gamers, but using the Japanese title is more natural.
Using the English title may sound like you are specifically referring to the overseas version or marketing.
The overseas version of Animal Crossing has slightly different content.
Casually mentioning playing or owning the game
In casual chat, players often shorten the title to 森 (mori) or use the abbreviation あつ森 for New Horizons.
Maybe I'll play some Animal Crossing today.
The turnip prices in Animal Crossing are insane.
The Japanese title どうぶつの森 literally means 'Animal Forest'. The English title 'Animal Crossing' is a localization choice. When speaking Japanese, always use the Japanese title.