The Pikmin franchise has consistently charmed players with its unique blend of strategy and real-time action since its GameCube debut. Pikmin 4, the latest installment on the Nintendo Switch, expands on the core formula with the largest and arguably most robust entry yet. While some new additions don’t quite hit the mark, the overall experience remains engaging and enjoyable.
This time around, players join the Rescue Corps on a mission to a mysterious planet to save Captain Olimar, the series’ protagonist. However, the rescue mission goes awry, leaving you stranded and tasked with saving not only Olimar but also your fellow Rescue Corps members. This sets the stage for exploring diverse environments, collecting treasures, and uncovering the planet’s secrets.
One of Pikmin 4‘s most significant changes is the introduction of customizable player characters. Instead of controlling established characters, you play as the “Rookie,” designing their appearance at the start of the game. While the concept of personalization is welcome, the limited and often unappealing customization options are disappointing. The character creation suite feels underdeveloped and fails to deliver a truly satisfying experience.
pikmin-4-gameplay.jpgFortunately, the core gameplay loop shines through. Retaining the familiar day/night cycle, Pikmin 4 challenges players to strategically utilize different Pikmin types to overcome obstacles, gather resources, and battle enemies during daylight hours. Nighttime brings new dangers, requiring you to seek shelter from nocturnal creatures. Six expansive areas, each with unique design and challenges, provide a sense of discovery and keep the gameplay fresh.
A standout addition is Oatchi, a dog-like companion who joins you early on. Oatchi acts as a versatile ally, capable of attacking, carrying items, and swimming, adding a new layer of strategic depth. Upgrading Oatchi throughout the game introduces RPG elements, further enhancing his usefulness.
Pikmin 4 also introduces two new Pikmin types: Ice Pikmin and Glow Pikmin. Ice Pikmin freeze enemies and water, offering straightforward utility. However, their overuse throughout the game can make them feel somewhat less exciting. Glow Pikmin, exclusive to nighttime expeditions, are essential for gathering resources only available after sunset.
pikmin-4-oatchi-water.jpgThe new nighttime expeditions, while conceptually intriguing, fall short in execution. These segments primarily consist of repetitive tower defense sequences that lack depth and variety. The limited use of Glow Pikmin further contributes to the monotony.
Dandori Challenges and Dandori Battles offer a fresh take on the Pikmin formula. These timed challenges emphasize multitasking and efficiency, encouraging players to master “Dandori,” a core concept of the series. Dandori Challenges provide engaging tests of strategic skill, while Dandori Battles, designed for multiplayer, seem best enjoyed against human opponents rather than the game’s AI.
pikmin-4-hed.jpgPikmin 4 offers a surprisingly lengthy campaign, with a completionist playthrough exceeding 30 hours. While the sheer volume of content is commendable, the game’s pacing could benefit from more variety to maintain engagement throughout the extended playtime.
In conclusion, Pikmin 4 is a welcome addition to the franchise, offering a charming adventure with engaging gameplay and strategic depth. While some new features, such as the nighttime expeditions and character customization, feel underdeveloped, the core gameplay loop and the introduction of Oatchi make it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and longtime fans.
Score: 4 out of 5
Pikmin 4 was released on June 21, 2023, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch family of systems. This review was conducted using a pre-release copy provided by Nintendo.
