I adore Pikmin, and this is a very good game. I think it's slightly too short and easy compared to the previous games, but it's still a delightful journey. I think the other thing it lacks compared to 1 + 2 is a loveable protagonist: while the 3 heroes are all fine, I think Alph is the only one that gets close to Olimar's thoughtful confidence that reminds me of an old-timey explorer's log book. I wouldn't say Olimar is even particularly charismatic, but something about the way he's written, even in this game, is better than the other three.
The game is cute, though! I am constantly delighted at the art and game design, even if it did feel a little too short and simple at times.
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also I don't really agree with _mbrown_'s review, the game does a great job of upping the tension multiple times throughout the game. I'd argue that pikmin 2 isn't nearly as stressful (even though I like that game) because the caves have no time limit.
I respect this game for daring to be short and concise around the time video games started being filled with bloat, but this game is massively unfulfilling for me. The removal of c-stick swarming and the shift towards larger, more linear level designs completely removes what makes the strategy of Pikmin so unique and engaging in the first place. The soft time limit with the fruit juice is a novel addition, but the piss easy way of gathering fruit makes it a compete non-issue after the first three or so days.
The narrative tries to reach for the same mild existential themes that are present in Pikmin 2, but doesn't do nearly enough to hammer them home with it's writing or atmosphere, which makes the ending monologues read like complete drivel. I'd also say that Olimar's treatment of Louie in this trivialises the minor character arc he has at the end of 2, though in all fairness that's likely my own headcanon speaking.
On a positive, this still continues to be Nintendo's best looking game over a decade later. It's crazy gorgeous on the Wii U
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Note: Unlike reviews, comments are considered temporary and may be deleted/purged without notice.The narrative tries to reach for the same mild existential themes that are present in Pikmin 2, but doesn't do nearly enough to hammer them home with it's writing or atmosphere, which makes the ending monologues read like complete drivel. I'd also say that Olimar's treatment of Louie in this trivialises the minor character arc he has at the end of 2, though in all fairness that's likely my own headcanon speaking.
On a positive, this still continues to be Nintendo's best looking game over a decade later. It's crazy gorgeous on the Wii U