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Pikmin 3 Deluxe Nintendo Switch Game Review

Return to PNF-404 and take command of the Pikmin!

Reviewed by on Nov 07, 2020
Rating: 5 Star Rating

We enjoyed Pikmin 3 back in 2013 when the game hit the Wii U, and it is still a joy to play in 2020 on the Nintendo Switch in the brand new Pikmin 3 Deluxe version. Head to Kidzworld for our full review of the game!

 

 

Sometimes you just need a helping of happiness, and Pikmin 3 delivers. We enjoyed it back in 2013 when the game hit the Wii U, and it is still a joy to play in 2020 on the Nintendo Switch. At the time, great Nintendo exclusives were a bit harder to come by. The Switch on the other hand is overflowing with great games, and Pikmin 3 still stands as a great addition to anyone’s library.

To Boldly Go

As the explorers Alph, Charlie, and Brittany, your mission is to strike out on the planet of PNF-404. The explorers are in search of food for their home planet when they crash land on the mysterious planet, and to make matters worse they are running out of food for themselves fast. The game is on a time limit, but it rarely feels stressful. As long as you carefully follow where the game wants you to do, the pace feels pitch-perfect. Being able to split up your party of explorers makes each task feel doable, and before long you’ll feel like a bonafide Pikmin general.  

Alph, Charlie, and Brittany.Alph, Charlie, and Brittany.

The Pikmin

Obstacles, enemies, and puzzles lie in your way during your trek on PNF-404, but the planet also gives you the perfect tools for survival. The titular Pikmin are how the explorers interact with the environment around them to solve puzzles and get past obstacles. Red Pikmin, Blue Pikmin, and Yellow Pikmin return from the previous games. Use Red Pikmin’s fire immunity to clear fiery passages. Blue Pikmin are masters of the water and are great swimmers. Yellow Pikmin works with electricity. Rock Pikmin and Winged Pikmin were new in Pikmin 3. Rock Pikmin are great at breaking down walls, and Winged Pikmin fly around and carry objects where other Pikmin cannot. White Pikmin are poisonous, and Purple Pikmin are the muscle of the team. Managing the different types of Pikmin is where the series’ Strategy gameplay shines through, and it is still one of the most unique strategy games out there.

The name of the game is using each type of Pikmin's strengths.The name of the game is using each type of Pikmin's strengths.

What’s New in Deluxe?

The new Deluxe edition of Pikmin 3 features some new content for fans. There are brand new missions starring Pikmin 1 and 2’s heroes Captain Olimar (Smash fans will recognize him) and Captain Louie. You have to complete some in-game challenges to unlock these, but more Pikmin is more than welcome. Perhaps the best new addition to Deluxe is full cooperative play so you and a friend can experience the entire game and the challenge modes together. Some great goodies on top of an already fantastic game.

Pikmin 3 is even better with a friend.Pikmin 3 is even better with a friend.

Pros

  • Unique Pikmin strategy gameplay
  • Gorgeous visuals
  • Filled to the brim with charm 

Cons

  • Time limit feature might be stressful to some players

Pikmin 3 Deluxe Game Rating: 5

Pikmin 3 Deluxe's Box Art.Pikmin 3 Deluxe's Box Art.

Available Now on Nintendo Switch!

Share Your Thoughts

What do you think of Pikmin 3? Are there any other Wii U games left to make their way onto Switch? Let us know!