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Today's Gaming News Update (2026-01-18)
Jan 18, 2026 6:01 a.m.

Gaming News Today (Jan 18, 2026): ACNH 3.0 + Quick Bulk Craft Guide

Meta description: Today’s game news: Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0.0 details, PS Plus January catalog, Switch firmware 21.2.0, Helldivers 2 Warbond delay, and a practical ACNH crafting guide.

Quick Summary

  • Animal Crossing: New Horizons has a major Version 3.0.0 update live (released Jan 14, 2026) with bulk crafting and crafting from home storage among the headline QoL changes.
  • PlayStation Plus Extra/Premium adds January’s Game Catalog lineup on Jan 20, 2026 (including Resident Evil Village and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth).
  • Nintendo Switch firmware updated to Version 21.2.0 (released Jan 13, 2026), described officially as stability improvements.
  • Helldivers 2 has delayed the “Redacted Regiment” Warbond indefinitely after a late issue surfaced in testing.
  • Next Life is Strange reveal is scheduled for Jan 20, 2026 (time varies by outlet, but multiple sources agree on a stream reveal that day).

Today’s Gaming News Highlights

Animal Crossing: New Horizons Version 3.0.0 is live (Jan 14, 2026)

Nintendo’s latest major update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons is out now as Version 3.0.0. The most immediately useful changes are quality-of-life: you can craft up to 10 items at once if you have materials, and DIY can use items stored in home storage as materials—meaning fewer trips, fewer inventory headaches, and more time actually building.

Patch notes also reference newly added content/features and an updated DIY Recipes page that helps track certain requests as you progress. (Platform note: the patch notes explicitly call out updates for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.) ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

PlayStation Plus Game Catalog (Extra/Premium) lands Jan 20, 2026

Sony has confirmed the January 2026 Game Catalog lineup for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium, with the full set becoming playable on January 20, 2026. Highlights include Resident Evil Village, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and Expeditions: A MudRunner Game, plus Ridge Racer for Premium. ([blog.playstation.com](https://blog.playstation.com/2026/01/14/playstation-plus-game-catalog-for-january-resident-evil-village-like-a-dragon-infinite-wealth-expeditions-a-mudrunner-game-and-more/?utm_source=openai))

Nintendo Switch system update: Version 21.2.0 (released Jan 13, 2026)

Nintendo’s official support page lists the current Switch firmware as 21.2.0, released January 13, 2026, with patch notes described as general stability improvements. If you’re troubleshooting performance or download issues, it’s worth confirming you’re on the latest system version before digging into game-specific fixes. ([nintendo.com](https://www.nintendo.com/my/support/switch/system_update/index.html?utm_source=openai))

Helldivers 2 “Redacted Regiment” Warbond delayed indefinitely

Arrowhead’s next Warbond for Helldivers 2—previously targeted for Jan 20, 2026—has been delayed indefinitely due to a key issue found in final testing. If you were planning to log in that week specifically to grind for new stealth-themed gear, keep an eye out for a revised date instead of assuming it’s still locked to the original window. ([gamesradar.com](https://www.gamesradar.com/games/third-person-shooter/helldivers-2s-upcoming-redacted-regiment-warbond-has-been-delayed-indefinitely-as-arrowhead-finds-a-key-issue-that-didnt-meet-our-standards-for-a-release/?utm_source=openai))

Next Life is Strange: reveal stream on Jan 20, 2026

Square Enix has teased an official reveal for the next Life is Strange on January 20, 2026. Outlets citing the teaser consistently point to a livestream announcement that day (often listed as 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET). ([gematsu.com](https://www.gematsu.com/2026/01/next-life-is-strange-game-to-be-announced-on-january-20?utm_source=openai))

Guide Corner (How-to / Walkthrough / Rules / Strategy)

Animal Crossing 3.0.0: How to bulk craft + craft from storage (fast)

If you’re returning for 3.0.0, the biggest time-saver is setting up a “crafting loop” that minimizes menus and inventory shuffling.

1) Bulk craft (up to 10 at once)

  • Step 1: Interact with a DIY workbench (any bench works).
  • Step 2: Choose a recipe you can make repeatedly (bait, fences, common furniture, etc.).
  • Step 3: When prompted for quantity, select up to 10—as long as you have enough materials.

This is ideal for high-volume crafting like customization-fuel items, repeatable decor, and stockpiling essentials. ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

2) Craft using materials from your home storage

  • Step 1: Make sure your crafting materials are in home storage (not in pockets).
  • Step 2: Use a DIY workbench and select a recipe.
  • Step 3: The game can now pull eligible materials directly from storage, reducing pocket clutter and mid-craft interruptions.

Practical setup tip: place a DIY bench near your home storage access point so your crafting hub becomes “bench + storage + space to drop results,” instead of “bench + ten trips to the shed.” ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

3) A simple “daily craft economy” loop (15 minutes)

  • Collect: Grab basic mats during your normal island pass (wood, stone, iron).
  • Store: Dump everything into home storage immediately.
  • Craft in batches: Bulk-craft your repeat items up to 10 at a time.
  • Sell or decorate: Decide fast—sell for Bells, or place for island rating / theme builds.

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to update the game: If you don’t see the new crafting options, confirm you’re actually on ACNH Version 3.0.0. ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

  • Assuming “system stability” updates are pointless: Even small firmware releases can resolve edge-case issues; confirm your Switch is on System Version 21.2.0 before troubleshooting downloads or online features. ([nintendo.com](https://www.nintendo.com/my/support/switch/system_update/index.html?utm_source=openai))
  • Over-crafting without storage discipline: Bulk crafting is a blessing until your storage is packed with “maybe later” items. Decide a keep/sell rule early.
  • Planning around old dates: Helldivers 2’s Warbond date isn’t reliable right now due to the indefinite delay—don’t schedule your grind assuming Jan 20 delivery. ([gamesradar.com](https://www.gamesradar.com/games/third-person-shooter/helldivers-2s-upcoming-redacted-regiment-warbond-has-been-delayed-indefinitely-as-arrowhead-finds-a-key-issue-that-didnt-meet-our-standards-for-a-release/?utm_source=openai))

Advanced Tips

  • Build a crafting zone: Put a DIY bench where you naturally pass it (near your home entrance or plaza route). Convenience is the real multiplier.
  • Batch by category: Do one batch session for tools/consumables, one for decor, one for sellables. You’ll reduce recipe scrolling and decision fatigue.
  • Plan for subscription drops: If you’re on PS Plus Extra/Premium, pre-load your week around the Jan 20, 2026 Game Catalog refresh so you can try a new title right when it goes live. ([blog.playstation.com](https://blog.playstation.com/2026/01/14/playstation-plus-game-catalog-for-january-resident-evil-village-like-a-dragon-infinite-wealth-expeditions-a-mudrunner-game-and-more/?utm_source=openai))
  • Use “date certainty” when following reveals: For the next Life is Strange, lock in Jan 20, 2026 first, then confirm the exact stream time from the official channel the day-of. ([gematsu.com](https://www.gematsu.com/2026/01/next-life-is-strange-game-to-be-announced-on-january-20?utm_source=openai))

How to research better (Checklist)

  • Start at the primary source: official patch notes / support pages first (version number + release date).
  • Confirm platform wording: Switch vs Switch 2, PS5 vs PS4, PC vs console—don’t assume parity.
  • Cross-check one trusted outlet: use a reputable gaming publication to confirm context and player-facing impact.
  • Write down the exact date: “Jan 14, 2026” beats “this week” every time.
  • Separate features vs rumors: if it’s not in patch notes or a dev announcement, label it as unconfirmed.

FAQ (5–8 Qs)

  • Q: What version is the Animal Crossing: New Horizons update today?

    A: The current major update discussed here is Version 3.0.0, released January 14, 2026. ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

  • Q: Can I really craft multiple items at once now?

    A: Yes. The patch notes state you can craft up to 10 items at once if you have enough materials. ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

  • Q: Do I still need crafting materials in my pockets?

    A: Not necessarily—items stored in home storage can now be used as DIY materials. ([nintendolife.com](https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2026/01/animal-crossing-new-horizons-update-3-0-0-patch-notes-switch-2-and-switch-new-content-features-and-more?utm_source=openai))

  • Q: What’s the latest Nintendo Switch system version right now?

    A: Nintendo lists System Version 21.2.0, released January 13, 2026. ([nintendo.com](https://www.nintendo.com/my/support/switch/system_update/index.html?utm_source=openai))

  • Q: When do the new PS Plus Extra/Premium catalog games arrive?

    A: Sony’s blog post says the January Game Catalog lineup is available on January 20, 2026. ([blog.playstation.com](https://blog.playstation.com/2026/01/14/playstation-plus-game-catalog-for-january-resident-evil-village-like-a-dragon-infinite-wealth-expeditions-a-mudrunner-game-and-more/?utm_source=openai))

  • Q: Is the Helldivers 2 “Redacted Regiment” Warbond still coming on Jan 20?

    A: It has been delayed indefinitely, so the original date is no longer reliable. ([gamesradar.com](https://www.gamesradar.com/games/third-person-shooter/helldivers-2s-upcoming-redacted-regiment-warbond-has-been-delayed-indefinitely-as-arrowhead-finds-a-key-issue-that-didnt-meet-our-standards-for-a-release/?utm_source=openai))

  • Q: When is the next Life is Strange being revealed?

    A: The reveal is scheduled for January 20, 2026 (often listed around 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET in coverage of the teaser). ([gematsu.com](https://www.gematsu.com/2026/01/next-life-is-strange-game-to-be-announced-on-january-20?utm_source=openai))

Sources / References

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