Animal Crossing: New Horizons was the hit game at the beginning of what is now a ten-month pandemic, surpassing sales of the previous Animal Crossing games. Now the National Video Game Museum is asking players for help for their new project called the Animal Crossing Diaries. They are attempting to document experiences players had while playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons during the beginning weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the official website, they described the project thusly.

While the world was on pause, the island paradises of Animal Crossing: New Horizons thrived, welcoming those in isolation with open arms (and paws). The game became a routine part of everyday life. Cancelled plans were reimagined and reprogrammed to the virtual sandy shores of players’ islands. For many people unable to socialise in real life, the game became a vital creative space for personal connection.

There is a wide range of options for players to submit, ranging from a video tour of your island to diary entries to any artwork fans have created. More options can be seen on the official website. Also, if you want to submit something that is not on their list, they are open to suggestions since “we don’t want anyone to be excluded.” Currently, there is no deadline set for submissions. However, participants should be advised that their submission could be used for research as well as be apart of an exhibit.

From everyday accounts of calm routine, to lavish forms of virtual celebration, the project will archive and understand how players create their own unique memories and meaningful experiences through Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available on Nintendo Switch for $59.99. Recently, there was a December update including a holiday event and new animals to catch around your island. And in January, players can look forward to the Festival holiday update.