Pikmin 4 and Pikmin Bloom to get free update this November

Nintendo has announced a free update for the lovely Pikmin 4, bringing new Pikmin styles, modes, and more. The new content will be released next month.

Pikmin 4 was originally released in July 2023. Two-and-a-bit years later, we’ve all been expecting an updated Switch 2 version. When will we learn to temper our expectations when it comes to Nintendo?

Instead, Nintendo has surprised us all with a free update to the original Switch version that merges a few features with the mobile title, Pikmin Bloom. Let’s break it down.

Firstly, the incredibly cute Decor Pikmin from Pikmin Bloom are making their first console appearance by joining the Pikmin crew. These adorable Pikmin wear various objects, like a donut around their body or ice cream on their head. Some even wear a cardboard bus cutout. Seriously, they are the definition of charming.

These new Pikmin will be dotted around the environment, allowing you to search and discover them for yourself. Not only will the Decor Pikmin be discoverable in Pikmin 4, but there’s also a new Pikmin Bloom connection that allows you to send your new critters to the mobile app. We love a good integration!

Additionally, Pikmin 4 will receive a couple of new ways to play. A new Photo Mode will allow players to capture the perfect moment astride Oatchi or among their Pikmin tribe. You can add your own stickers and frames, too. Frankly, we’re surprised this welcome feature wasn’t already included.

In the difficulty department, a couple of new options will also be available. First up, you’ll be able to play at your leisure in the new Relaxed mode. This chill approach allows you to walk right by an enemy without it attacking. If you attack, they will retaliate, but they’re also much easier to defeat. You can even pose for a photo with enemies like a Bulborb in the aforementioned Camera Mode!

If you’re after something a little more spicy, the Fierce Mode might be more your style. This mode ramps up the difficulty, perfect for experts looking for a new challenge.

Check out the trailer below to see the new features in action.

But wait, there’s more! Pikmin Blloom is also receiving a little extra love (apart from the Decor connectivity). We can expect to see Ice Pikmin wandering around our neighborhoods in the near future, too.

The Pikmin 4 and Pikmin Bloom updates are slated for sometime in November. While no specific date has been announced, it won’t be too long before we’re snapping pics of cute Pikmin wearing odd costumes.

In the meantime, check out our glowing review of Pikmin 4. For those new to the series or still on the fence, there’s a free demo available so you can give it a try. The demo will be updated in November to show off some of the new features, too.

Which is your fave Pikmin? Let us know if you’re partial to Rock, Ice, Glow, or one of the many colored variations!