Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Kicks' Shop: Shoe Collection Puzzle – A Review
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Introduction
Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captivated players worldwide with its charming gameplay, relaxing atmosphere, and endless customization options. One of the most beloved features is the ability to collect and style outfits, including shoes. Kicks, the traveling skunk merchant, brings a rotating selection of footwear to your island, making shoe collecting an exciting yet puzzling endeavor.
In this review, we’ll delve into Kicks’ shop, analyzing the mechanics of shoe collecting, the variety available, and whether the system enhances or frustrates the player experience.
Who is Kicks?
Kicks is a recurring character in the Animal Crossing series, first introduced in Wild World. In New Horizons, he appears in the plaza once a week, setting up a small stall where players can purchase shoes, socks, and bags. His inventory changes with each visit, making his shop a treasure trove for fashion enthusiasts.
Unlike the Able Sisters’ shop, which offers a daily selection of clothing, Kicks’ limited appearances add an element of rarity to his merchandise. This scarcity can make shoe collecting feel like a rewarding puzzle—or an exercise in patience.
The Shoe Collection Puzzle
1. Limited Availability
Kicks only visits once a week, meaning players must check in regularly to see his stock. Since his inventory is random, there’s no guarantee that he’ll have the shoes you want. This mechanic turns shoe collecting into a long-term goal rather than an instant gratification feature.
Pros:
- Encourages regular play and engagement.
- Makes rare shoe finds more exciting.
Cons:
- Can be frustrating for completionists.
- Some players may never see certain styles.
2. Variety and Customization
Kicks offers a wide range of footwear, from sneakers and sandals to formal shoes and boots. Some shoes even come in multiple colors, adding depth to customization.
Notable Categories:
- Casual (Sneakers, Slip-ons) – Great for everyday outfits.
- Formal (Loafers, Oxfords) – Perfect for elegant or professional looks.
- Seasonal (Rain Boots, Snow Boots) – Functional for weather changes.
- Unique (Wingtip, Power Boots) – Standout pieces for themed outfits.
The variety ensures that players can match shoes to any outfit, but the randomness means you might not get the exact style you want when you need it.
3. The Completionist Challenge
For players aiming to collect every shoe in the game, Kicks’ shop presents a real puzzle. Since his stock is random and limited per visit, completing the collection requires:
- Patience – Waiting weeks or months for specific styles.
- Trading – Visiting other players’ islands if they have Kicks selling rare shoes.
- Luck – Hoping RNG favors you.
This system can be rewarding for dedicated players but may feel tedious for those who prefer a more straightforward collection method.
Does Kicks’ Shop Enhance the Game?
Kicks’ shop adds an extra layer of depth to New Horizons by:
✅ Encouraging Regular Play – His weekly visits keep players engaged.
✅ Adding Fashion Variety – More options mean more creative outfits.
✅ Creating a Collecting Challenge – Completionists have a long-term goal.
However, some players might find the randomness frustrating, especially if they’re looking for specific shoes. A potential improvement could be a catalog system where players can order past Kicks’ items, similar to the Nook Shopping app.
Final Verdict
Kicks’ Shoe Collection in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a fun yet puzzling aspect of the game. The limited availability and random stock make shoe collecting a long-term challenge, which can be both rewarding and frustrating.
Rating: 8/10
✔ Pros: Great variety, encourages engagement, fun for collectors.
❌ Cons: Randomness can be tedious, no guaranteed way to obtain desired items.
For fashion-forward players, Kicks’ shop is a must-visit, but for those who prefer instant gratification, it might feel like an unnecessary hurdle. Either way, his presence adds charm and depth to the Animal Crossing experience.
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