During the most recent Nintendo Direct, Nintendo announced that Pikmin 4 is real and coming to the Switch. This was one of the titles that the June Nintendo Direct left in limbo, as many players opined the lack of news about a new title in the beloved series.
Almost since the release of its previous mainline title, players have wondered when Nintendo would bring forth Pikmin 4 and have waited for it with baited-breath. While this may confuse those who have never played the titles, those who have often become die hard fans, drawn in by the engaging gameplay and colorful worlds of Pikmin.
The announcement of Pikmin 4 is accompanied by a very brief trailer for the game. Barely topping 30 seconds, the title shows little beyond a setting with oversized benches and undersized fences, a mish-mash of props that don't seem to fit. That said, the graphics and world look beautiful and vibrant, with plenty of plantlife and adorable monsters. In this case, a pair of Bulbaxs wandering around and another one sleeping near a watch. At the very end, the release window confirmed that Pikmin 4 will launch a full decade after Pikmin 3.
Although no gameplay was shown, it can be safely guessed that it will be similar to the gameplay of previous Pikmin titles. This means players can likely expect to command large groups of Pikmin as they explore a strange new land, gather materials and try to grow their home base, and fight off monsters using overwhelming numbers. It's possible the game will also carry over new features like the customization practices of Pikmin Bloom.
The stories of Pikmin titles each focus on retrieving something vital while on the Pikmin's home planet, ranging from spaceship parts to food. Each new title also introduces new characters who are alien to the mysterious and highly oxygenated world of the Pikmin. These distinct characters are one thing that will likely continue to separate Pikmin 4 from games like Pikmin Bloom and its human community focused gameplay and rewards.
For those who are trying out Pikmin 4 as their first Pikmin title, there are a few things they should expect, especially if they have played the recent Tinykin, which is often compared to Pikmin. Differences between Tinykin and Pikmin include (for Pikmin) a time restraint, fewer NPCs, and battles that will require good use of acquired Pikmin. Make no mistake, despite the beautiful setting, Pikmin can get rather tense.
Pikmin 4 is releasing for the Nintendo Switch in 2023.