Pikmin 4 – larger-than-life Miyamoto-made miniature might

Switch players and tiny creature leaders, get ready for an exciting new adventure with the highly anticipated Pikmin 4! Developed by Nintendo and created by Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of Mario, Zelda, and other loved franchises, Pikmin 4 promises an immersive experience that will captivate players of all ages. The charming characters, intricate gameplay mechanics, and the heartfelt dedication poured into their creation make Pikmin 4 a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

Pioneer a Peculiar Planet

In Pikmin 4, the player is the newest recruit of “The Rescue Corps,” who is set out to rescue their stranded colleagues—after they, themselves, try to rescue the series’ original hero, Captain Olimar. As the chosen rookie rescuer, you embark on an adventure of exploration and discovery on an uncharted planet inhabited by crops of creatures both friendly and formidable. From vast open areas to mysterious caves, there are countless treasures to uncover, puzzles to be solved, and battles to overcome.

An Assortment of Adorable Allies

At the heart of Pikmin 4 are the characters and tiny creatures known as Pikmin that define the series’ charm and charisma. These tiny, yet spirited creatures prove to be valuable allies on your quest. While weak on their known, as a collective they can overcome the various challenges that lie in your path.

The fiery Red Pikmin are powerful attackers and resistant to fire; the versatile Yellow Pikmin can be tossed to grab hard-to-reach objects and resistant to electricity; and the aquatic Blue Pikmin can breathe underwater and swim in streams and puddles. Each Pikmin type possesses distinct abilities that can be strategically utilized to tackle different obstacles. And the introduction of new Pikmin add further dimension to the gameplay, such as the Ice Pikmin’s ability to freeze enemies and bodies of water, or the Glow Pikmin’s ability to shine bright enough to stun enemies.

Joining the player and their Pikmin on this new expedition is Oatchi, the adorable Rescue Pup who possesses the ability to smash obstacles, transport heavy objects, and carry a plethora of Pikmin on his back. Throughout your adventure, Oatchi will also learn additional abilities, such as jump, doggy-paddle, and enemy rush. Oatchi’s abilities complement those of the Pikmin, creating a formidable fusion capable of conquering any obstacle. Together, no challenge is too big.

Miyamoto-Made Miniature Might

The Pikmin series holds a special place in the heart of Shigeru Miyamoto, reflecting his passion, creativity, and notorious knack for creating memorable characters. Miyamoto has brought to life a captivating world in which the player takes on the role of a tiny being on a strange new planet explored from a new, up-close camera angle.

Miyamoto’s attention to detail shine through every aspect of the game, ensuring that you will form bonds with tiny botanical beings that you truly care about, directing them on your expedition as you explore new frontiers and take in additional Pikmin along the way.

Dark Descents and Moonlit Missions

Treacherous caves scattered across the planet offer unique challenges, presenting players with puzzling obstacles, a variety of wild Pikmin to recruit, and powerful bosses to face. The absence of the Pikmin’s nest and ship, the Onion, which cannot join you underground, adds an extra layer of tension to descending the cave’s dank depths.

With the new night expeditions, you are tasked with defending structures containing precious glow sap as night falls and aggressive creatures emerge. The new Glow Pikmin, which have adapted to the darkness, become your luminous allies in fending off attackers until dawn.

Pikmin Planning

For players seeking to put their skills to the test, Pikmin 4 offers Dandori battles—or battles that test your skills of organization and efficacy. Team up with or take on another player on the same system and command Pikmin against the clock to collect as many treasures and creatures as possible, while picking up bonuses for extra points, and collecting mystery capsules to strike your opponent with lightning or rocks. The player who performs at peak efficiency will claim victory.

Adventure Awaits

Shigeru Miyamoto’s remarkable creativity lends the Pikmin series its timeless appeal, and in Pikmin 4, it is as apparent as ever. With its colorful, charming characters and creatures—complemented by a larger-than-life world and engaging gameplay that require skilful strategies—Pikmin 4 promises a welcoming and unforgettable experience that shows that, no matter how small you may be, even the largest challenges can be conquered with a bit of teamwork, planning, and kindness.

Pikmin 4 is due out for Switch on July 21. A free demo is available now via Nintendo eShop.