The Pikmin series is a real-time strategy game with a difference. Rather than commanding troops or trucks you are in charge of cute flower-like creatures. You use them to knock down walls, build bridges and attack other creatures and can grow different varieties for specific uses. It's a game from a Nintendo-owned developer which means it's well-funded and they have taken time to polish and finesse each release. It is only available on Nintendo platforms.
Different colour Pikmin have different abilities which are required to solve puzzles by using the correct colours to complete specific tasks. The game is presented like a nature program as you discover flora and fauna. This combines with the folktale narrative to create a compelling and well-written story for all ages.
Originally released on the Nintendo Gamecube in 2001 it was re-released with new play controls on the Nintendo Wii in 2009. The Wii version of Pikmin offers enhanced controls, some adjusted difficulty with some Pikmin dying less easily. You can also cycle through the different types of Pikmin more easily. The later games have introduced new elements, but remain true to the core formula:
- Pikmin (2001) on Gamecube and Wii
- Pikmin 2 (2004) on Gamecube and Wii
- Pikmin 3 (2013) on Wii U
- Hey! Pikmin (2017) on Nintendo 3DS in 2017
- Pikmin 3 Deluxe (2020) on Nintendo Switch
There have been 5 games in the Pikmin franchise.
The first game was released in 2001 on GameCube, Nintendo Wii and Nintendo Wii U and the most recent release was Pikmin 4 in 2023 on Nintendo Switch.
The most popular game in the franchise is Pikmin 3 with 51 likes. The franchise as a whole has 100 likes on the database. Unfortunately, Pikmin 4 is not available on Android, Mac, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox X|S or iOS. However, there are other games similar to Pikmin 4 on these platforms that offer an equivalent experience.