I don't know what it is but this entry in the series feels more like a chore than previous games. Maybe its the crafting slowing everything down, or making it more of a slow progression more than "instant" gratification, but I could not get into it like I did new leaf. Still, it's animal crossing, it's relaxing, cozy, and the gameplay loop by nature is addictive. I will say the customization options for the island really add to this game and make it worth a try over others in the series, even if I personally could not get into it as much.

It is a good game, the story is amazing and honestly it basically carries the whole game, it has a special place in my heart and shows some of the best character work on the whole series. The gameplay is where it falters for me, it feels very floaty and unresponsive, but can still be enjoyable, however it is not as addictive as other entries in the series have been for me. The less said about the leveling system the better. Overall it is a game let down by the growing pains it got from the change in engine, but is still very much worth a try.