So what’s the deal with Pikmin 4?
For some players, Pikmin 4 will be their first time interacting with the franchise. Naturally, there’ll be plenty of questions surrounding what Pikmin are and what gameplay should be expected. Some people may even be wondering whether Pikmin 4 is a reboot or not.
This guide will explain whether Pikmin 4 is a reboot, and how it fits in with prior titles.
Is Pikmin 4 a reboot?
Not counting Pikmin 4, there are three mainline entries in the Pikmin series.
- Pikmin was originally released in 2001 for the GameCube. In 2008, the Japanese version was ported to the Wii, and the Western versions received the same treatment in 2009.
- The direct sequel, Pikmin 2, hit shelves in 2004 before receiving a Wii port in 2009.
- Lastly, Pikmin 3 was launched in 2013 for the Wii U.
There are also two spin-off titles. Hey! Pikmin was released for the Nintendo 3DS in 2017, while the Niantic-developed AR game Pikmin Bloom was released in 2021. A decade has passed since the last mainline Pikmin release, which has some wondering whether the franchise is getting a reboot with the upcoming game.
It appears that Pikmin 4 is a soft reboot, as the opening sequence has Captain Olimar speaking as though Planet PNF-404 and the Pikmin are new to him. This could signal the beginning of a new timeline. It wouldn’t be the first time Nintendo does this with their franchises, as The Legend of Zelda fans will know.
However, there is evidence to the contrary. Details on the Japanese website make mention of Pikmin such as Mushroom Pikmin and Bulbmin being reclassified, suggesting that Pikmin 4 takes place after past games.
Either way, you won’t need to know too much about prior titles to jump into the action, as the game does feature a tutorial, and it’s not too plot-heavy. If you do want to strengthen your Pikmin knowledge further, there are a few options.
The original trilogy has been ported to the Nintendo Switch, making it easier for curious fans to learn more about the franchise’s history. You can also watch the very helpful trailer which explains the basics of the little Pikmin. Lastly, there are also cute and colorful comics and short movies available on the official site.
Pikmin 4 has the potential to be another gem in a year that has been phenomenal for the Nintendo Switch. If you’re still on the fence about the game, there is a demo available on the eShop, and it allows you to play for a considerable amount of time.
