Amiibo 101: Everything You Need to Know to Unlock Splatoon and Zelda Items in New Horizons

Are you ready to unlock exclusive Splatoon and Legend of Zelda items in Animal Crossing: New Horizons' 3.0 update? With new Amiibo functionality bringing exciting rewards and stunning furniture into your game, the possibilities are endless. However, knowing how to effectively scan your Amiibo, which character unlocks what, and how to maximize your rewards can seem overwhelming. This guide dives deep into everything you need to unlock Splatoon and Zelda items in New Horizons like a pro, straight in 2026.

Why Amiibo Fun Matters More Than Ever in 2026

The 3.0 update arrived late last year, revitalizing Animal Crossing: New Horizons with fresh content after its two-year hiatus. This update has brought Splatoon-themed furniture, Zelda-inspired decor, and even crossover perks for day-to-day island life. With Nintendo doubling down on Amiibo integration and collectors embracing these figures more than ever, owning the right Amiibo is now essential for any dedicated New Horizons fan.

Compatible Amiibo for Splatoon and Zelda Items

Not every Amiibo will work to unlock all items. Here's a breakdown of which figures you’ll need:

Splatoon Amiibo

• Inkling Girl (original or Splatoon 2 variant): Unlocks neon-styled furniture like squid beds and inky wall art.
• Inkling Boy: Add Splatoon-inspired clothing and cool gear to your wardrobe.
• Octoling Amiibo (all variants): Unlocks exclusive housewares, such as ink blasters or even wall decals mimicking battle zones from Splatoon stages.

Legend of Zelda Amiibo

• Link (Twilight Princess and Wind Waker editions): Zelda-themed curtains, Triforce rugs, and majestic royal pedestals.
• Zelda (Breath of the Wild variant): Exclusive tunic designs for your character and ornate Hylian shields as display pieces.
• Ganondorf: Dark and brooding aesthetic items that scream villainy, including spellbinding wall decorations.

How to Scan Amiibo in Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Scanning Amiibo in New Horizons is incredibly simple, but newcomers often miss key steps. Follow these tips to successfully bring new items to your catalog:

1. Ensure your game is updated to version 3.0, visible on your start-up screen.
2. Visit the Nook Stop terminal inside Resident Services.
3. From the menu, navigate to "Invite a Camper"—this is where Amiibo magic happens.
4. Place your Amiibo figure on your Nintendo Switch controller's NFC touchpoint (typically on the right Joy-Con). Hold it steady until the game recognizes the figure.
5. Once scanned, the associated rewards will appear in your catalog under "Promotionals." Be sure to allocate extra Bells to purchase the furniture or clothing unlocked!

Pro Tip: Farming Splatoon Furniture the Right Way

The neon-infused Splatoon furniture has a dedicated fanbase already, and for good reason. By scanning multiple Splatoon Amiibo over time, you'll unlock custom options or rare recolors. Plus:

• Create save data backups before major scans; this prevents item unlocking mishaps.
• Use multiplayer swapping! Invite your friends over, trade duplicates, and add variety to your collection without spending extra Bells.
• Don’t miss out on seasonal variations. Inkling characters offer exclusive items tied to Splatoon’s in-game seasons. Check back during changes (e.g., summer and winter updates) for more items!

Where to Buy Amiibo in 2026

Finding Amiibo figures at reasonable prices can be challenging, especially as collectibles grow in value. Here's where you can reliably purchase them:

Retail Locations

• GameStop and Best Buy: These major retailers still stock new Amiibo releases, especially Splatoon and Zelda collections, as they remain fan favorites.
• Target Exclusive Deals: Keep an eye out for weekly promotions, particularly around major gaming holidays like Nintendo Direct March Sales.
• Local Game Collector Fairs: Heading to conventions or collectible expos offers a chance to snag retired Amiibo figures like Ganondorf or the original Inkling designs.

Online Options

• Amazon (2026 Verified): Check for "Amazon-verified" sellers to avoid counterfeits.
• eBay: Use caution when purchasing from third-party resellers. Look for sellers with 98%+ positive ratings.
• Nintendo Online Store: Recently, Nintendo’s official website has begun restocking high-demand Amiibo series due to consistent player interest.

Closing the Loop—Maximizing Your In-Game Adventure

Amiibo functionality in Animal Crossing: New Horizons has truly reached its peak in 2026, combining fandom nostalgia with tangible gameplay enhancements. Whether you’re decking out your island with vivid Splatoon vibes or embracing Hylian glory, these figures infuse your everyday play with new possibilities.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into your catalog, scan your Amiibo collection, and transform your island into a crossover paradise.

Your turn to unlock rewards: Which Amiibo will you scan first? Share your favorite designs and unlock tips with the gaming community! Don’t forget to bookmark our Amiibo hub for the latest Amiibo updates and strategies.

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