Welcome to EXPlay, (Explain & Play) the review series where we care not for scores but tell it how it is when it comes to every game we get our hands on, whilst also taking the time to include some lengthy gameplay, to give you the reader, the chance to shape your own impressions and views whilst watching and reading.
In this explanatory review, we’re covering Pikmin 2 by developer, Nintendo EPD:
Pikmin 2 (The Explanation)
This summer during the non-E3, Nintendo held its own Direct featuring over 30 games. Along with a preview of Pikmin 4, which I am looking forward to playing, Nintendo unveiled remastered upgrades for Pikmin 1 & Pikmin 2. In this EXPlay I will cover a bit of Pikmin 2and my initial thoughts on the remaster game and what you can look forward to experiencing if you plan on picking up the game. You can read my initial EXPlay thoughts on Pikmin 1 remaster over here.
Pikmin 2 picks up immediately after the events of its predecessor. Originally released in 2004, Pikmin 2 later received a Wii reimagining as a “New Play Control” edition in 2009 (2012 in North America) and was made available on the Wii U’s Virtual Console service in 2016. Now, in 2023, a highly anticipated HD remaster of the game arrives exclusively for the Nintendo Switch, reintroducing the beloved adventure to a new generation of players.
Captain Olimar, alongside his colleague Louie, returns to their home planet Hocotate, only to discover their employer, Hocotate Freight, is drowning in debt. A glimmer of hope arises when the company’s president learns about the value of a precious souvenir Olimar brought back from the Pikmin planet. To repay the debt, Olimar and Louie are assigned a critical mission: venture back to the mysterious planet and collect the treasure of immense worth.
Blast off to a familiar planet as you embark on a thrilling quest for treasure in Pikmin 2. In this thrilling sequel, players are immersed in the quest to gather an array of fascinating treasures that Hocotate deems valuable human garbage. From bottle caps to enigmatic gadgets, the planet is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Taking control of both Olimar and Louie, players can strategically alternate between them, utilizing their unique abilities to divide and conquer tasks. The inclusion of purple and white Pikmin adds an extra dimension to the adventure, enhancing the team’s capabilities.
While time remains a crucial factor on the planet’s surface, players can also delve into intricate cave systems, offering respite from the day and allowing for a meticulous strategy to blossom. Unlike its predecessor, Pikmin 2 liberates players from the constraints of deadlines, enabling them to savor the exploration and collection at their own pace.
As you venture out make sure to prepare for tactical brilliance: Swap, Divide, and Conquer with Olimar and Louie! The adventure unfolds as you alternate between the resourceful duo, unleashing their combined prowess to overcome challenges. Together with the loyal Pikmin by your side, you’ll unravel the mysteries of the strange planet and pave the way to financial freedom for your employer.
Pikmin 2 seems to have been remastered a bit better in terms of visuals. The foliage, Pikmin, and the world around you all seem to have scaled better in this iteration. That isn’t to say the Pikmin 1 remaster doesn’t look good, it’s just that Pikmin 2 has aged a little better. Pikmin 2’s co-op team member gives a bit more to do as well since you can command armies of Pikmin in different directions dividing and conquering enemies and item pick-ups around the level. The strategy you need to manage Olimar and Louie will translate well to gameplay found in Pikmin 3, and the upcoming Pikmin 4.
With Pikmin hype being at an all-time high, now that the Pikmin 4 demo is live and the game is only a few weeks from launch, now is the time to get into Pikmin 2. If you haven’t had a chance to play the game since this version is the best yet. I only wish we would see a fully remade version in Pikmin 3 or 4 style someday in the future as a Pikmin Deluxe package. Until then, this is a highly recommended game in the Pikmin-plucking series.
Pikmin 2 (The Gameplay)
Game Specifications:
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Publisher: Nintendo
Platform: Nintendo Switch (eShop)
Category: Action, Adventure, Strategy
No. of Players: 1-2 (Single System)
Release Date: NA & EU: June 21, 2023
Price: $29.99
File Size: 1 GB
Nintendo.com Listing
