SEA LIFE Meets Sea Bass: Animal Crossing Takes Over Melbourne Aquarium
If you’ve ever wished you could step straight into your Animal Crossing: New Horizons island, fishing rod in hand, sea creatures galore, then SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium has the next best thing. From 24 June to 17 August, the iconic underwater attraction has teamed up with Nintendo for an immersive experience that blends marine magic with cosy gaming charm. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, join a themed stamp rally, and even come face-to-face with fan-favourite characters like Isabelle, all while learning about real-life sea life with a little help from Blathers himself.
The collaboration is honestly a genius one and truly brings the Animal Crossing magic to life. From the moment you walk in, the familiar in-game soundtrack greets you, immediately transporting you into that whimsical world of calm vibes and curious critters. It’s more than just a few posters on the wall; every corner has been thoughtfully themed to feel like you’re wandering through your own museum or island.
The stamp rally was a standout, capturing the same addictive spirit as the in-game events. Guests can explore different areas of the aquarium, ‘meet’ villagers, collect stamps, and claim a sweet little postcard as a reward. It’s perfect for little ones, and let’s be honest, just as fun for adults who remember the thrill of completing stamp cards on their own islands.
And of course, we couldn’t miss the chance to meet Isabelle herself. With her signature ponytail and cheerful energy, she was a fan favourite for photo ops. A side note that might seem odd, but we need to say it, her shoes were adorable. Someone really paid attention to the details, and honestly, we respect that.
As we wandered through the exhibits, we kept our eyes peeled for animal facts presented by Blathers (thankfully without the dramatic bug disgust!) and scanned every nook and cranny in search of hidden surprises, yes, even Gulliver makes an appearance if you’re observant enough.
The themed gift shop is also worth a mention. Packed with exclusive Animal Crossing merch, from plushies to stationery, it's almost impossible to leave empty-handed. Prepare your wallet, Tom Nook would be proud.
Whether you're a lifelong Animal Crossing fan or just looking for a fresh reason to visit the aquarium, this event is pure joy. It’s educational, heartwarming, and packed with nostalgia. Plus, it's a rare chance to see gaming and marine conservation come together in such a thoughtful and accessible way.