Pikmin 3 Deluxe Arriving on the Switch

One of the Wii U releases that has been high on people’s list for a Switch port is Pikmin 3. The Pikmin franchise hasn’t seen much love in a few years and aside from The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker HD remaster, it is one of the few Wii U exclusives to not be ported to the Switch thus far. However, that is changing, as Nintendo just announced that Pikmin 3 Deluxe is coming to the Nintendo Switch on October 30^th, 2020.

Pikmin 3 Deluxe is an enhanced version of Pikmin 3 that will contain new content, more options for cooperative play, and new settings to make things easier on newcomers to the franchise. Here is what the press release has to say about what Pikmin 3 Deluxe offers. –

“Pikmin 3 Deluxe delivers a full suite of additions and enhancements, including the ability to play the whole Story mode in co-op with a friend, new side-story missions which can also be played in co-op and all the Mission mode DLC stages from the original game’s release. With new difficulty options, lock-on targeting, optional hints, and the choice to play at a more relaxed pace, it’s easier than ever to join in on the Pikmin fun, enjoy the game’s beautiful scenery and get a taste of what this vibrant world has to offer. Fun features from the original game also return in Pikmin 3 Deluxe, such as the in-game camera, which allows players to snap photos of the game’s lush environments and curious creatures from a pint-sized perspective.

With a number of Pikmin to befriend and command, you’ll have a willing team at your disposal to tackle whatever obstacles you face. Different colored Pikmin offer a variety of helpful abilities and strengths for your missions. For example, Blue Pikmin can breathe underwater, helping you collect items other Pikmin can’t reach, while Winged Pikmin, distinguished by their pink hues and fluttering wings, can fly over terrains such as water and pits. Strategically selecting the right Pikmin for the task at hand, delegating projects, and changing between captains can help secure victory.

For seasoned players who are ready to deploy their Pikmin-plucking skills in some new challenges, Pikmin 3 Deluxe adds new side-story missions featuring Olimar and Louie exploring planet PNF-404. And for a bit of friendly Pikmin-flinging fun, there are even head-to-head multiplayer matches available in Bingo Battle.”

Nick Chavez, Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, commented on the announcement stating, “Pikmin 3 Deluxe brings this classic franchise to life on Nintendo Switch, introducing a new audience to its beloved characters and gameplay, while also welcoming back returning players with new challenges. With Pikmin 3 Deluxe, the Nintendo Switch library of software continues to grow with a variety of games for everyone to discover and enjoy.”

As a fan of the Pikmin franchise, I am very excited about this. I couldn’t play the Wii U very easily due to how heavy the tablet controller was, so this is the perfect time for me to get back into it. I’ll definitely be pre-ordering this or buying it on release. In fact, Pikmin 3 Deluxe will be available on October 30^th for $59.99. You’ll be able to pick it up in-store or on the Nintendo eShop in case you’d rather buy it digitally. Pre-purchase options are now available on the eShop as well.