Pikmin 4 Review: A Long-Standing Franchise Heads in a New Direction

Nintendo's esteemed Pikmin franchise has always been a haven for relaxation and enjoyment. Much like the feeling of accomplishment one derives from ticking off chores on a to-do list, the Pikmin games offer that sense of satisfaction and order through gameplay. The latest iteration, Pikmin 4, underscores this quality, marking a beautiful relaunch in the franchise that simultaneously charms existing fans and welcomes newcomers.

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Pikmin 4: First Impressions

This game is a grand entrance point for those new to the Pikmin universe. The narrative starts by literally welcoming you with a character creation tool to design your very own Rescue Crew member. Although the tools could have been more sophisticated, they are charmingly quaint, allowing you to form a diminutive adventurer ready to face the exciting world of Pikmin.

Pikmin Character Cusomization | Image: Nintendo

Pikmin 4's New Gameplay Elements

When it comes to Pikmin 4's newest changeups, we have two major features to cover:

• Oatchi

• Glow Pikmin & Night Missions

Oatchi

Now, let's talk bout Oatchi, a significant addition to Pikmin 4, and one that enriches the game in numerous ways. This adorable, two-legged canine creature becomes your constant companion throughout your adventure. Oatchi is unique. Unlike the Pikmin, which come in various types and numbers, Oatchi is one-of-a-kind and has the strength of multiple Pikmin, thereby allowing you to solve puzzles more efficiently. This fur-felt creature can also carry you, allowing you to explore more rapidly and providing you an overview of where your Pikmin are. This feature significantly decreases the anxiety of potentially losing track of your Pikmin, ensuring they all stick together.

Oatchi & Pikmin | Image: Nintendo

Moreover, Oatchi adds an edge in battles, with its ability to launch all your Pikmin onto an enemy en masse. It revolutionizes combat and makes it faster and more efficient. As a result, gameplay with Oatchi feels significantly different, introducing a freshness that older versions lacked.

Pikmin 4 - Oatchi Gameplay | Image: Nintendo

Glow Pikmin & Night Missions

Pikmin 4 also introduces new types of Pikmin that transform gameplay, with the Glow Pikmin standing out in particular. This type is pivotal in the new game mode, the Night Missions. Here, you use the Glow Pikmin exclusively in a tower defense mini-game. The Glow Pikmin generate a nectar-like substance that attracts and enrages the local fauna, but this nectar is also an essential ingredient for your mission.

Pikmin 4 - Glow Pikmin | Image: Nintendo

You are tasked with protecting the nests where the nectar is generated until morning. These missions aren't overly difficult, which aligns perfectly with the overall tranquil pace of the game.

Glow Pikmin & Oatchi | Image: Nintendo

Where Pikmin 4 Falls Short

However, the game isn't without its challenges. The franchise's attempt to introduce elements traditionally found in more competitive games is an interesting experiment, though it can feel incongruous with the game's overall rhythm.

For instance, Dandori, a Japanese concept referring to orderly planning and efficiency, is a competitive treasure hunt against an AI opponent. It seems misplaced in a game that focuses on relaxing exploration. The pacing, at times, can feel a bit off, particularly when you're up against the clock or directly competing with the AI.

Dandori battles can be a polarizing topic; and while the thought of efficiency and maximizing gameplay progress falls in-line with Pikmin's ethos, we found the experience to be just "ok".

What's in Store for the Future of the Pikmin Franchise

As for the future of the franchise, these new gameplay elements could signify Nintendo's attempt to experiment and explore new genres. While they may not have fully resonated with the serene nature of Pikmin, it’s commendable to see Nintendo testing the waters. In all probability, Nintendo will evaluate player feedback to further refine these new features in the next game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pikmin 4 signifies a well-executed restart for the Pikmin franchise. It cleverly integrates elements that amplify the gaming experience while preserving the quintessential charm that has defined the Pikmin series over the years. The addition of Oatchi and new Pikmin types undoubtedly adds depth to the gameplay and could shape the course for future additions to the franchise.

That being said, Pikmin 4 is at its best when it leans into its relaxing, task-oriented nature, offering a serene escape that many players, myself included, find irresistible. However, its attempt to adopt more traditional game-like elements with competition and fail-states feels less cohesive.

Overall, Pikmin 4 is a game that promises a charming, engaging, and somewhat soothing experience. A must-play for fans and a fantastic entry point for newcomers, Pikmin 4 represents a vibrant blend of old and new that continues to solidify Nintendo's indelible mark on the gaming landscape.

Nintendo Supply Rating: 4.5 / 5

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