Pikmin 3 is perhaps the biggest blockbuster first party title heading to the Wii U this summer, and Nintendo is hoping that the game can help spark a revolution for the struggling system.
Now, Nintendo has released a video showing off gameplay from Pikmin 3, showing off some impressive graphics and how the new Pikmin mix in with the old.
The nearly seven minutes long video long video (which is in Japanese) shows the three playable protagonists crash landing on the planet full of Pikmin and discovering the plant-like creatures. Familiar gameplay aspects as shown, such as throwing Pikmin to fetch far away objects and using them to fight creatures. Other tasks seen include using the Pikmin to build bridges and tear down obstacles in the player's path.
The two new Pikmin types are seen in action in the video. The black rock-type Pikmin are seen being used to smash objects and armored enemies. The pink flying Pikmin look more versatile, as they are seen flying over water hazards, flying objects to their destination, and pulling objects out of the ground where other Pikmin could not.
Players will be able to switch between the three characters on the fly, meaning players can figure out a puzzle in an area, then switch to a different character with their own set of Pikmin to further the mission's goals. The Wii U Gamepad can be used as a minimap of a level, and can be used to set the characters on a path towards an object or objective.
The game almost seems to have a point-and-click adventure vibe to it, as players gather up their Pikmin, then use the Wii Remote to point at whatever task needs doing. The game also plays around with camera angles a lot, and at one point seems to switch to a side-scrolling view, making the game feel even more like an old-school adventure game. Multiplayer mode is also shown briefly, and appears to be a competition to gather the most food.
Overall the game looks amazing, and should be a big hit for the Wii U when it comes out August 4.