After a long calm of silence for the Pikmin franchise, Nintendo has announced another WiiU title will make the generational jump to the Nintendo Switch. Thanks to some leaks that became public at the beginning of this year, a Pikmin announcement has been expected. Despite some expectations wistfully wishing for the rightful announcement of Pikmin 4, the deluxe upgrade is a welcome addition to the Switch’s decorated library. While the game developer has been moving its more successful titles to the now popular Switch, Pikmin 3 Deluxe promises a definitive version of the largest journey these little leaf creatures have experienced.
As is tradition with many of Nintendo’s deluxe upgrade versions, Pikmin 3 will be given the same quality of life and update treatment. As with any title getting re-released, Nintendo has also included all the paid DLC missions. These missions and the campaign will support Co-op play with a friend. Being able to complete the campaign alongside another captain is a series first outside of the clever modding community. Controlling 3 captains between both players will allow for much better control and smoother gameplay overall.
For a fresh addition, Nintendo has created 2 side stories focusing on the main protagonists of Pikmin 2. Featuring the classic duo of Olimar and Louie, these missions take place before the main course of the story explaining and filling in some gaps from their perspective of the adventure. Intrepid Pikmin fans will also appreciate the return of the famous Piklopedia, a monster log that gives flavor text and tracks statistics. A welcome inclusion that brings more insight into the world of PNF-404 and adds replay value to the expansive Pikmin 3 experience.
The Piklopedia has been newly added to #Pikmin 3 Deluxe! This valuable resource contains information on creatures you encounter during your adventures. In addition, you can collect in-game badges by meeting certain conditions! pic.twitter.com/oHD76Rjkxj
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) August 5, 2020
While it may not be the announcement that many Pikmin fans have been waiting to hear, it’s a good sign for the future of the series itself. The title itself is one of the better Pikmin games, and it’s great to see the series get some appreciation with this re-release. The title is now available for Pre-Purchase on the EShop and releases on October 30th.