The quiet rustling of the trees and the soft hush of the ocean waves gently crashing against the shore cause me to forget that the world is under lockdown. 

I am immersed in the pixelated paradise of “Animal Crossing: New Horizons.” The game is relaxing and idyllic, acting as an escape from the hectic state of the world.

“Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” released on March 20 for the Nintendo Switch, is the newest addition to the life simulation series. As with every other game in the series, it starts players with their own character, where the in-game entrepreneur and guide Tom Nook greets players alongside a few cute animals. 

Although there is no clear goal to the game, the main objective is to pay off debt with each upgrade to a bigger house. Players can reach this goal by selling fish and insects that they catch and fossils that they dig up around the island, amid others. 

Eventually, the house may be upgraded to the maximum limit, but other than that, there is always something to do, with no clear “ending.” 

Compared to other recent games like “DOOM Eternal” and “Half-Life: Alyx,” “New Horizons” is a quirky and charming game without a timely objective. “New Horizons” also offers a creative aspect, allowing players to design and make their own clothing and furniture. 

With “New Horizons,” you can design the world the way you want to. Whether you want to live in a tropical paradise or a perfectly planned community, it is up to you. 

Even though “New Horizons” has exceeded my expectations in more ways than one, the price is a problem for me; $60 for a game is on the pricey side. Not to mention that in order to play with friends over the internet, players have to pay for Switch Online, the service that allows for online gameplay. 

Despite the price, the game is still worth playing. “Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” along with its stunning visuals and addictive gameplay, is the perfect escape from boredom during quarantine and will leave you wanting more every time.