Basic Controls & UI — Animal Crossing: New Horizons Guide

Understanding the controls and user interface (UI) is crucial for smooth gameplay. Here's a quick rundown:

• Left Stick: Move your character.
• Right Stick: Move the camera (when applicable, mostly indoors or in specific outdoor areas).
• A Button: Interact, pick up items, talk to villagers, use tools.
• B Button: Run (hold), cancel actions.
• X Button: Open your inventory.
• Y Button: Pick up items (when not interacting), shake trees.
• ZL Button: Open your NookPhone.
• ZR Button: Quick-select tools (after unlocking the Tool Ring).
• Directional Pad: Change expressions (after unlocking).
• Minus (-) Button: Save and quit.
• Plus (+) Button: Open the NookPhone (alternative).

The UI is clean and intuitive. Your inventory is accessed via 'X', and your NookPhone (a crucial in-game device) via 'ZL'. The NookPhone contains apps like the Critterpedia, DIY Recipes, Nook Miles, and more.