Review: “Animal Crossing: Watergate” – A Political Satire Masterpiece with a Whimsical Twist
By Hidaka Mitsunari, Technology Writer December 19, 2025 Few games can successfully merge historical satire with the charm of anthropomorphic animals, but Animal Crossing: Watergate does so with an unexpected brilliance. Nintendo’s bold departure from their usual island escapades delivers a game that is equal parts hilarious, tense, and oddly touching. For anyone still wondering whether a political scandal can be fun, the answer is a resounding “yes.” A Delightful Balancing Act The game excels at creating a sense of mounting tension without losing the franchise’s signature cozy vibe. As Richard Nixon, players are thrust into the heart of the Watergate scandal, juggling relationships with both allies and adversaries who are all represented by iconic Animal Crossing characters. Tom Nook, Isabel, and Blathers lead the congressional committee investigating you, while K.K. Slider serves as a journalist writing scathing editorials about your every move. Despite the hea...