Pikmin 4 is set to release on July 21, 2023. Read on to learn about the gameplay features, New Pikmin Ice Pikmin, the adorable space dog companion Oatchi, and if we recommend buying it!

Pikmin 4 Nintendo Direct Gameplay Trailer

As seen in the Nintendo Direct 2.8.23 livestream, we found that Pikmin 4 will be a nintendo switch exclusive that features a new captain for players to control, and a new Ice-type Pikmin. The trailer also highlights Oatchi, the adorable space dog who helps the player with various tasks. In the trailer we see Oatchi help carry the player and a group of Pikmin across water safely. It's unclear if there is a limit to the number of Pikmin Oatchi can carry, but judging from the trailer, if there is a limit it is generous.

The trailer revealed a day-and-night cycle in the game. Players must make the most of the day in order to avoid putting their Pikmins at risk from predators that often emerge at night.

Ice Pikmin

We see a variety of Pikmin in the trailer, but the new ice-type Pikmin stands out the most. They can freeze enemies and bodies of water, so you can walk across safely. This will be useful in cases where you need to travel over water with Pikmin that would drown otherwise.

Space Dog Companion Oatchi

Pikmin 4 players will have a new adorable puppy-like companion named Oatchi on their team. Oatchi can crash through walls, drag resources back to the ship and carry players to certain areas they wouldn't be able to reach normally.

It is unclear if this is the extent of Oatchi's abilities, but this is all that has been confirmed so far. It would be interesting to see if Oatchi grows and becomes an even stronger ally. Or it would be a cruel twist if he turns on you after reaching maturity, attempting to devour your Pikmin. This is just speculation of course.

New Captain

Players will be able to control a new captain in Pikmin 4, guiding Pikmin safely through each level while commanding them to solve different puzzles. The new captain sports red hair and long pointy ears, and appears to be of the same race as the main protagonist of the Pikmin series, Captain Olimar.

Possible Day & Night Cycle

This is speculation, but at the end of the trailer for Pikmin 4, we see a Bulboros at night, and its eyes turn red. There are two ways to interpret this: as a reminder to get back to the ship safely before nightfall, as is the case in all Pikmin games so far, OR perhaps this trailer is hinting at a day and night cycle?

It would be an interesting way to mix up the formula if the player was given a fighting chance after dark. This would be an interesting trade off, as the player's time would be less restricted, but the risk of staying out too late would be facing more aggressive enemies.

Note: We do not believe a day and night cycle is likely to be present in the final game, but we sincerely hope Pikmin 4 surprises us.

Is Pikmin 4 Recommended to Play?

Buy Pikmin 4 - This Series is Underrated

Pikmin has always been a satisfying series, and Pikmin 4 looks to be of the same level of quality. Pikmin may not be the flashiest of franchises in Nintendo's roster, but it has a lot to offer. There's planning, puzzle solving, time management, and challenging bosses. Additionally, these games never overstay their welcome, making them fun to go back and play should the mood strike you.

If you're even slightly thinking about buying Pikmin 4, we recommend buying it. That being said, if it doesn't look like it's for you, don't force yourself to try and enjoy it.

About Pikmin 4

Game Information and Official Cover Art

Jamaila Toni Bojador

I have always been a huge fan of open-world JRPGs and adventure games ever since I was a little child. It felt like I was traveling in a different world even though I was only looking at a small screen in front of me. Nowadays, I’m currently playing Genshin Impact and Wildrift, but if I want to ju..