In Animal Crossing DS players move into a village, buy a small house and then do whatever they want. Time and seasons pass as they do in the real world, so there will always be something unpredictable happening. Collect or buy items, talk to neighbours, go fishing, catch bugs, dig up treasure or hang out with human friends.

Much of the cast of the original Animal Crossing returns, including animals of all shapes and personality types: K.K. Slider, Tom Nook, Blathers, Mr. Resetti and more. There are also a number of new characters. Tap the touch screen to type letters, draw designs for clothing or wallpaper, drag clothing or items onto characters or just lead them around the world. Using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, players can hang out in real time with up to three friends.