User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 810 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 50 out of 810
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. Aug 19, 2013
    9
    Probably the first must-own game on the Wii U. Pikmin 3 is by far the best game in the series. The use of 3 main characters, additional depth in battle strategy, new pikmin types, and focus on time/sunset, have combined to make this worthy experience of any gamer's time. I haven't even tried the acclaimed bingo battles, but Wii U owners can finally justify their console purchase.
  2. Aug 27, 2013
    9
    This is my first pikmin game, and it won me over. The beautifully detailed environment helped to rope me in and immerse me. The gameplay was great, other than a few annoyances like having to throw a crew member and THEN take control of them, and maybe it was just me but the whenever I wanted to throw pikmin really fast it would through like 3 quickly, then pause for a split second, thenThis is my first pikmin game, and it won me over. The beautifully detailed environment helped to rope me in and immerse me. The gameplay was great, other than a few annoyances like having to throw a crew member and THEN take control of them, and maybe it was just me but the whenever I wanted to throw pikmin really fast it would through like 3 quickly, then pause for a split second, then throw some more. Truthfully the puzzle solving wasn't that hard, but what is very challenging and fun is all the multitasking opportunities. Even though I had plenty of fruit that I didn't NEED to rush, it was fun trying to maximize my efficiency. The game was pretty funny at times too, and the pikmin themselves were awesome. It felt horrible when they would die, especially if it was because of a dumb mistake on your part, and this shows just how immersive this game really is. Expand
  3. Aug 6, 2013
    9
    Se puede decir que Pikmin 3 es el mejor juego de Wii U hasta el momento. Una nueva historia, excelentes gráficas y multiples modos de juego, hacen de este, un excelente juego, obligatorio de tener si tienes Wii U.
  4. Aug 22, 2013
    9
    Pikmin 3 is a stunning game. As a newcomer to the series, I didn't know quite what to expect. But Pikmin 3 eases you in gently, and before you know it you're thinking strategically, plotting out each day. The tutorial is fantastically subtle- not the boring navi-like stuff we've come to know. For example, when introducing blue pikmin, it doesn't tell you they are resistant to water.Pikmin 3 is a stunning game. As a newcomer to the series, I didn't know quite what to expect. But Pikmin 3 eases you in gently, and before you know it you're thinking strategically, plotting out each day. The tutorial is fantastically subtle- not the boring navi-like stuff we've come to know. For example, when introducing blue pikmin, it doesn't tell you they are resistant to water. Instead, they first appear in the water so you know that.
    Game mechanics work like this: you control 3 crew members throughout the storyline of Pikmin 3. They can only progress by using pikmin. You can grow pikmin, but that wastes valuable time. You can have up to 100 pikmin with you at one time. These cute adorable little creatures can be thrown at enemies. The pikmin will all attack the enemies, but the enemies can also attack the pikmin. And there's nothing as heartbreaking as the squeal of a dying pikmin gobbled up by a bulborb. You go through the game in a cycle of days, and each day you must get all your pikmin back to the ship or they will perish. And that is a heartbreaking cutscene.
    The pikmin can also carry objects back to the ship, which is a vital component of pikmin 3. Various different types of pikmin each have different qualities, and these qualities are needed to solve puzzles. But it can be annoying when pikmin often do stupid things that you don't want them to do.
    Every day, the crew members consume a portion of fruit every day and you need to keep using pikmin to collect fruit on top of the main game. If they run out, it's game over. But it's fine because you can always skip to an earlier day before things went wrong. Pikmin 3 gets lovably complicated and challenging, and is really a joy to play. The puzzles and combat are so expertly made, and each boss is unique and geniously crafted. Equally, environments are glorious in HD, and are really beautiful to look at. They are all perfectly natural, no human intervention, and you are tiny compared to them. Like, you can stand on a leaves. Enemies are weird and unique, and creative in both presentation and combat. I can't stress enough how inventive Nintendo have been in enemy design and ideas.
    The gamepad is very useful as you actually play with nunchuk and remote, and have the gamepad stood up beside you to look at for the map. You need it to think strategically and plan your day. It's as good as essential for success in Pikmin 3.
    In addition to story mode, there's a mission mode, which sets you goals to collect as much fruit as possible or defeat enemies. This can also be played co-op. The missions really help your strategic thinking and increase the longevity of Pikmin 3 by a huge amount.
    There's also a versus multiplayer mode, but the player with the gamepad has a huge advantage because they can see the map.
    Pikmin 3 is a beautiful game, and though flawed, you shouldn't hesitate to buy it.
    Expand
  5. Aug 22, 2013
    9
    You know a game is good when you purchase it for your kids and then find yourself playing it for hours after they go to bed. This game has a lot of depth to it, and the only reason that I am unable to give it a 10 is that developers continue to struggle to find innovative controls using the new gamepad touch screen. The game plays better with a remote and chuck, the only advantage toYou know a game is good when you purchase it for your kids and then find yourself playing it for hours after they go to bed. This game has a lot of depth to it, and the only reason that I am unable to give it a 10 is that developers continue to struggle to find innovative controls using the new gamepad touch screen. The game plays better with a remote and chuck, the only advantage to using the pad is the map. Expand
  6. Aug 4, 2013
    9
    Don't believe IGNorant, this game is better then a 8.0, it's another one of myamoto's materpieces. Also, one of the best looking games ever made with it's incredible textures and unbelievably beautiful environments. If you have a Wii U then pick this up, if you don't have a Wii U think about picking one up in the very near future.
  7. Aug 4, 2013
    9
    This is the first review I write, it's more of an impression. I purchased the Wii U knowing that Nintendo has never let me down and though there is a game drought it wouldn't last long. I have known about the Pikmin franchise for a while but never actually played either 1 or 2, however I would not let the 3rd pass me by. The game is beautiful, by now the web is probably filled withThis is the first review I write, it's more of an impression. I purchased the Wii U knowing that Nintendo has never let me down and though there is a game drought it wouldn't last long. I have known about the Pikmin franchise for a while but never actually played either 1 or 2, however I would not let the 3rd pass me by. The game is beautiful, by now the web is probably filled with imagines of in game photos of fellow gamers and their mini adventures, but you have to see it for yourself. The colors are vibrant, fun, and inviting, far from the doom-and-gloom of more "serious" titles, the character design very cute and unique. Visually the game is stunning but the sound is also superb.

    As you begin to amass your army of pikmin the pitter-patter of moving beings can be heard along with distant sound of a flowing streams, the happy background music also helps to fill in mood. Gameplay, it's a mix of strategy and action. I really did not expect how involved I would be micromanaging the assorted colors of pikmin: Red which are good fighters and fire resistant, Rock which can break glass and crystal, Yellow which dig faster and are shock resistant, blue which are water resistant, and Pink which can fly. I felt like both sheperd and general, protecting my flock from harm but also leading them to victory when battles insued.

    The gamepad is a great controller, but the guidance or ability to select where to send my pikmin feels a bit unrefined when compared to the polish of the whole game, don't get me wrong the touch screen is brilliant but the thumb sticks just don't work as well as I would like. The story seems like a subtle hint of conservationalism, the inhabitants of Koppai are runningout of resources and have looked to the stars to save themselves. They aren't looking to terraform, but to mine the planet of its resources by bringing back seeds and delicious fruit.

    Like I stated earlier this isn't a total review but more of an impression (because I haven't finished the game yet), but I'm enjoying what I've played. I hope that this is the game that ushers in a wave of Nintendo gems, the one that at least briefly quiets the nay-sayers that seems so eager to dismiss Nintendo in favor of Sony and Microsoft. Only time will tell, but until then I'll happily be spending my time with Alph, Brittany, Charlie, and a whole lotta Pikmin!
    Expand
  8. Aug 10, 2013
    9
    Read the full review at http://blog.kolma.info/2013/08/pikmin-3-review.html

    Pros: Amazing visuals, New control scheme is friendly to newcomers while allowing strategic plans for veterans, "Voice acting", Good sense of size (physical size), Lots of replay to improve time and efficiency, Losing yourself in this fantasy world Cons: Very short game (about 10-15 hours), Not many
    Read the full review at http://blog.kolma.info/2013/08/pikmin-3-review.html

    Pros:

    Amazing visuals, New control scheme is friendly to newcomers while allowing strategic plans for veterans, "Voice acting", Good sense of size (physical size), Lots of replay to improve time and efficiency, Losing yourself in this fantasy world

    Cons:

    Very short game (about 10-15 hours), Not many collectibles at all besides main fruits, Lack of co-op story mode, Losing track of time in this fantasy world

    Closing Comments:
    Any Nintendo fan should absolutely pick up this game whether or not they have played the previous Pikmin games. The new cast of characters are unrelated to Olimar and Louie from the Gamecube classics however those that have played the originals will certainly appreciate the enhancements as well as the nods to the older titles. Pikmin 3 is by far the best Wii U game I have played this year and will be a tough game to beat for the next couple of months. Do not let the short time drive you away from this game as there will be may days that you will replay to perfect your strategies.
    Expand
  9. Aug 11, 2013
    9
    This Game isn't what you would call a 10/10, however it's close. I very much feel that this game answered a lot of questions in the series and provoked me to think quite thoroughly about the entirety of the series. The final boss pretty much summed up my thoughts. However, there were some bugs and some levels in this game I found to be quite, how may I say, difficult. There were certainThis Game isn't what you would call a 10/10, however it's close. I very much feel that this game answered a lot of questions in the series and provoked me to think quite thoroughly about the entirety of the series. The final boss pretty much summed up my thoughts. However, there were some bugs and some levels in this game I found to be quite, how may I say, difficult. There were certain mechanics of certain enemies that I found quite wrong as well. Not in terms of cannon of prior games, but more or less how enemies ate your pikmin. I might sound vague but I do not want to give away spoilers. The controls were 8/10. The control for locking on only seemed to work for me when I used the gamepad, other times I would use the wiimote, and I found it that even if I pointed at the enemy with the lock on engaged, it still proved ineffective. As much of an avid Pikmin fan I might be, sometimes I have to remark on the negatives of this game. The graphics were beautiful. The graphics and display was a solid 10/10, if possible 12/10. I don't really know what it was with this game, but I could not look away from it. The last thing I will say is, I look forward to the fourth installment, but please, please, please, do not change the control format again Nintendo. Expand
  10. Sep 11, 2013
    9
    A gorgeously sweet game that is a treat to experience. I loved nearly every minute of exploring the Pikmin 3 world. A few control irritations, and a slightly baffling final boss fight were the weaker moments, but they were lesser parts of an otherwise excellent whole.
  11. Sep 11, 2013
    9
    What is Pikmin? In it's core, the popular nintendo series focuses on multiple human-like creatures crash-landing on an abandoned earth. this desolent planet is only populated by vicious creatures, from armored beetles to flaming slugs, except for a small population of plant people AKA Pikmin. to get a bit more specific, you play as one of three pilots sent to earth to collect fruit. onceWhat is Pikmin? In it's core, the popular nintendo series focuses on multiple human-like creatures crash-landing on an abandoned earth. this desolent planet is only populated by vicious creatures, from armored beetles to flaming slugs, except for a small population of plant people AKA Pikmin. to get a bit more specific, you play as one of three pilots sent to earth to collect fruit. once these astro-strangers make contact to post-pandora, they find the pikmin who are willing to help achieve the objective to secure vegetation. there are only 3 astronauts that you can play at at once, and there a maximum total of 100 pikmin on the screen at once. although the beginning of the game is fairly simple and focuses on managing each astronaut achieve a certain directive (collect a fruit, build a bridge, etc), the gameplay further complicates as more pikmin are introduced all with a different ability. for instance, red pikmin can walk through flames and rock pikmin can smash glass. you may need to use rock pikmin to shatter a glass gateway while red pikmin attack a fire themed enemy. but no matter how many different pikmin are thrown at the screen, they never become too much and too unmanageable. one of the reasons why is that it is much easier to select a specific type of pikmin, only needing the click of a button to switch up your color coded order. i won't talk about the story, nor the ending, as i feel that doing so will eliminate the charm that comes upon the pikmin franchise. when playing a game like pikmin, there is so much good to intake (good music, good visuals, good gameplay, etc), that it's almost a bit too much to even discuss. and it is very difficult to talk about one aspect more than another. the flaws of pikmin are that of size and structure. the game is fairly short, about 6 hours if you only choose to collect the bare basics of fruit and items, but it will quickly elongate if you put your sights on collecting every item there is. the game can also trip up a bit when commanding 100 pikmin split into 3 groups of leaders and 5 different types of pikmin in all (especially a particularly annoying bug in the game which makes a pikmin continuously run into a wall, stopping them from falling your path), but these conflicts are miniscule in effect and short in supply. all in all, pikmin 3 was a very enjoyable title for the wii u that, hopefully, shows not just the potential for the system but also what the end result could be. if you like games that focus around strategy, multitasking, commanding units, beautiful visuals, or huge open worlds made out of small places, try pikmin 3. if any of the said genres are not up to your taste, give pikmin 3 a skip and try something else more to your tastes like wonderful 101 or super mario dream team Expand
  12. Djo
    Sep 15, 2013
    9
    It's just a great game. Of course, it could have been more long (10-15 hours to finish the story mode) but you have the multiplayer mode.
    Also, the game is beautiful, the graphics are way, but way better than the last Pikmin. Easily one of the best looking game on the console.
    As for the gameplay, you literally have three ways of playing this game, you shouldn't have problem finding one
    It's just a great game. Of course, it could have been more long (10-15 hours to finish the story mode) but you have the multiplayer mode.
    Also, the game is beautiful, the graphics are way, but way better than the last Pikmin. Easily one of the best looking game on the console.
    As for the gameplay, you literally have three ways of playing this game, you shouldn't have problem finding one that fits you.
    So I say, it's a must buy.
    Expand
  13. LHy
    Sep 29, 2013
    9
    I love the aspects of the game, but in my opinion, it's just too easy for me, I always seem to have an abundance of fruit, even after Louie steals it, other than that, loving the game and loving the franchise. Can't wait until Pikmin 4.
  14. Oct 17, 2013
    9
    Pikmin 3 is an incredible game It's a real time strategy game and it's easy and fun to play Everybody should play this because it's an unforgettable experience .its gorgeous in HD the gameplay is fantastic and overall a fantastic game
  15. Oct 18, 2013
    9
    visually impeccable, nintendo was the last to join the HD generation looks more like she is already on her for years and such graphical quality of this game.
  16. Oct 28, 2013
    9
    In a long overdue review, I am happy to say that Pikmin 3 does not fail to deliver on its promise of taking you to a mysterious planet for an adventure. In perhaps what is the only true real-time strategy game on the market, Pikmin 3's game play and strategic elements exemplify the games true complexity and enjoyment, The Pikmin series has been praised for its game play in the past, butIn a long overdue review, I am happy to say that Pikmin 3 does not fail to deliver on its promise of taking you to a mysterious planet for an adventure. In perhaps what is the only true real-time strategy game on the market, Pikmin 3's game play and strategic elements exemplify the games true complexity and enjoyment, The Pikmin series has been praised for its game play in the past, but Pikmin 3 adds another complexity with the introduction of 3 characters and your ability to transition between them. This aspects creates interesting puzzles that take quite a bit of pondering in order to figure out. The game's graphics and soundtrack only continue to compliment the story and game play of Pikmin 3. In what is perhaps Shigeru Miyamoto's most ambitious and creative game, a new puzzle or mystery is always around the corner. Pikmin 3 will not disappoint.

    Positives: Graphics, Soundtrack, Story, Game Play, Controls
    Negatives: The length of the game had me craving for more as soon as I finished
    Expand
  17. Dec 31, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I am a longtime fan of the Pikmin series. I have been hoping for a third entry into the series since I finally finished Pikmin 2 only a few years ago. After preordering and picking up the game earlier this year, I can say I wasn't disappointed with it. The game looks beautiful in HD graphics. The objects appear almost lifelike within the game, from the fruit, to the characters themselves, while cartoony in appearance, they look great, and have an improved look compared to captain models from the first two games. I enjoyed many of the features the new entry, the WIi U Gamepad provides a great map view of the world, and is very useful in tracking down stray Pikmin, I had an issue with that on Pikmin 1 and 2, as night would fall as I was searching for said Pikmin. I found the 3 captain controls very helpful in the mission modes of the game, having the ability to send one captain to one area while focusing on another was a genius idea. While I was a bit distraught over the absence of purple and white Pikmin from the campaign, I was glad to see them in the mission modes, while they were replaced by rock and pink Pikmin that fly. The rocks are great for taking enemies out quickly, and the pinks are good for attacking enemies that fly above so they can be brought down for the other pikmin to finish off. The game did have a few flaws though, the campaign, while enjoyable and fun, was rather short in length. There wasn't that many mission levels to begin with, but that was made up for through the addition of DLC, all of which I have bought, and will continue to purchase as long as they keep coming, and creative levels are introduced. While I did understand that the story focused on the 3 captains from Koppai, I was somewhat disappointed from the lack of appearance from Olimar in the game, aside from the data files that were left behind. I was kinda surprised to see that all Pikmin types are allowed to carry Bomb Rocks (I am glad that this is a feature that returned) now, instead of just yellow Pikmin alone. It's what made the yellows stand out, aside from their electricity resistance, which they also kept from Pikmin 2. I liked how they implied from the beginning that Olimar was dead, that alone brought me off my seat, and beat my childhood over the head in the process. I can't say what exactly sucked me into the game, but I know for a fact that this is a great game for Wii U owners, current and future, to pick up. Expand
  18. Jan 12, 2014
    9
    This is a really good game, there are bad things added in this, and good things. A bad thing is that, when you go in a cave, theres no sublevels and just a room or 2. Plus, when you fight a boss in a cave, the time still goes down, so you might have to fight the boss again the next day. A good thing is, for me at least, how you have a fruit supply to get, and how it is real fruit, likeThis is a really good game, there are bad things added in this, and good things. A bad thing is that, when you go in a cave, theres no sublevels and just a room or 2. Plus, when you fight a boss in a cave, the time still goes down, so you might have to fight the boss again the next day. A good thing is, for me at least, how you have a fruit supply to get, and how it is real fruit, like there is an apple, a banana, grapes, and that stuff. One thing I did not like, you don't play as Olimar and Louie. You do play as them in the last 3 levels of Mission mode, only in collect treasure and defeat enemies though. I highly suggest you get this game. Plus, 2 new pikmin! Expand
  19. Jan 17, 2014
    9
    Pikmin 3 is a great example of what HD was made for; the gorgeous woodlands, ponds and tundra spring from the screen teeming with life of Pikmin and other strange creatures. The third game in the series does well to have a much more relaxed pace to full take in the scope; this and the refined gameplay mechanics make it even more of a calming experience. Admittedly a little repetitive butPikmin 3 is a great example of what HD was made for; the gorgeous woodlands, ponds and tundra spring from the screen teeming with life of Pikmin and other strange creatures. The third game in the series does well to have a much more relaxed pace to full take in the scope; this and the refined gameplay mechanics make it even more of a calming experience. Admittedly a little repetitive but short enough for that to not be a problem. Expand
  20. Sep 9, 2019
    9
    This is the first game in the series that I finished, I played Pikmin 2 for a little while, but lost interest after a couple of hours. This one on the other hand, I played until completion. And it was really great fun.

    These games are really interesting and unique, there's really nothing quite like them out there, they have that typical Nintendo-charm, with bright & colorful visuals,
    This is the first game in the series that I finished, I played Pikmin 2 for a little while, but lost interest after a couple of hours. This one on the other hand, I played until completion. And it was really great fun.

    These games are really interesting and unique, there's really nothing quite like them out there, they have that typical Nintendo-charm, with bright & colorful visuals, quirky humor and a high fun-factor. The new bee-Pikmin are also really cool, as they bring new strategies to the gameplay. The fruits you pick up look highly realistic, and the "monsters" roaming around all have different and unique appearances. The boss-fights are quite challenging, and requires a healthy dose of strategy to beat.

    I highly recommend this one, particularly if you're into strategy-games.
    Expand
  21. Apr 20, 2014
    9
    There was literally no way I could've enjoyed my Wii U better. Well, after WindWaker HD and 3D World came out, I enjoyed them more and played them more, but still this was the first game I greatly enjoyed for Wii U. I honestly would like to give it a 9.3, but it was either a 9 or 10 and isn't good enough to be a perfect. It's very close though. I can tell I'll be enjoying this for years to come.
  22. May 3, 2014
    9
    I felt the game took a step back from Pikmin 2, which is both good and bad. It's unique, fun and charming. It's beautiful and entertaining. I was saddened however, by the lack of treasure like in Pikmin 2, the lack of caves, and that in the story mode the 2 new Pikmin types we met in Pikmin 2 are not present, and are basically replaced. Still though, the graphics, the audio, the levelI felt the game took a step back from Pikmin 2, which is both good and bad. It's unique, fun and charming. It's beautiful and entertaining. I was saddened however, by the lack of treasure like in Pikmin 2, the lack of caves, and that in the story mode the 2 new Pikmin types we met in Pikmin 2 are not present, and are basically replaced. Still though, the graphics, the audio, the level design, the gameplay, the combat, is all amazing and wonderful and deserves to be played. Expand
  23. Jul 4, 2014
    9
    Recently got this game and it is absolutely wonderful. It has a wonderful, vibrant atmosphere and it's gameplay/structure is addictive and easy to get into. I haven't played the other installments in this series but I may now, after enjoying this one. The mechanics of the game, while simple, are effective and satisfying.

    My gripes with this game is the camera angles and use of the
    Recently got this game and it is absolutely wonderful. It has a wonderful, vibrant atmosphere and it's gameplay/structure is addictive and easy to get into. I haven't played the other installments in this series but I may now, after enjoying this one. The mechanics of the game, while simple, are effective and satisfying.

    My gripes with this game is the camera angles and use of the Wii U GamePad. The camera angles are only a slight annoyance, but I do not enjoy having to constantly switch between the gamepad and the TV. Other than that this game is great! Recommended to everyone who wants something a little different.
    Expand
  24. Jun 2, 2014
    9
    Il terzo Pikmin è l'apice della trilogia grazie alla sua splendida veste grafica, le rifiniture nel gameplay e una maggiore varietà rispetto al secondo episodio. Uno dei giochi migliori disponibili su Wii U.
  25. Sep 29, 2014
    9
    Pikmin 3 is my personal Wii U game of the year for 2013. It has great gameplay and visuals. There is lots of collectables and the exploration is fun. The music is great and the boss battles are the best of the series. This game is worth the full $60. Every Wii U owner should own this game!
  26. Oct 4, 2014
    9
    This game is an absolute gem and once played I was so addicted I bought and played the first and second game in the series as well!
    If I was Nintendo I would be working on some dlc levels not battle and most defiantly the fourth title!
  27. Oct 27, 2014
    9
    Pikmin 3 is the best in the series, and while it doesn't offer the same quantity of content as Pikmin did, it certainly looks for the entertainment of a wide variety of players, with its classic and redefined combat system, strategic nature and amusing art direction. However, ugly textures in some strict points (like the ground), and not very precise control schemes, may be the onlyPikmin 3 is the best in the series, and while it doesn't offer the same quantity of content as Pikmin did, it certainly looks for the entertainment of a wide variety of players, with its classic and redefined combat system, strategic nature and amusing art direction. However, ugly textures in some strict points (like the ground), and not very precise control schemes, may be the only inconveniences with Pikmin 3. Expand
  28. Nov 12, 2014
    9
    Pikmin 3 is a superb Wii U RTS game. If your a Pikmin fan, you will enjoy this game. If you new to pikmin, this is the game to get you started. Ok review time!

    Story: Pikmin 3 is more story-based, than the other 2 Pikmin games. Its still not much, but as a Pikmin fan myself, story isn't important in Pikmin games. So if you want a good story, Pikmin might not give you what you want.
    Pikmin 3 is a superb Wii U RTS game. If your a Pikmin fan, you will enjoy this game. If you new to pikmin, this is the game to get you started. Ok review time!

    Story: Pikmin 3 is more story-based, than the other 2 Pikmin games. Its still not much, but as a Pikmin fan myself, story isn't important in Pikmin games. So if you want a good story, Pikmin might not give you what you want.
    Gameplay: Pikmin 3 introduce many new enemies, features, and 2 new pikmin to use. It also contains a small amount of puzzles from here and there, but its mostly a RTS game with action thrown in. If your familiar with the Pikmin games, you can easily adopt to the changes, If your new, don't worry, Pikmin 3 will teach you what you need to know, and data files can be found all around, providing hints, and tips for newcomers, they are optional to grab, so you can learn at your own pace. Also, with many different control options, you will find a comfortable way to play. In a nutshell, Pikmin 3 gameplay is great, its user friendly for newcomers, but is still a bit difficult for expert players.

    Graphics: Pikmin 3 graphics are amazing, one of the best looking Wii U games, Pikmin 3 will amaze you with its graphics. The environment looks awesome. Flowers, fruit, and other plant life looks very realistic, with many details added! The best is the water effects. Running in the water creates realistic effects, like the ripples, and even distort anything underwater, like in real life! Even aquatic creatures create ripples!

    Music: Pikmin 3 is filled with a beautiful soundtrack. Each BGM (background music) fits the environment perfectly! From calm soundtracks like in the wintry Distant Tundra, to a upbeat tropical soundtrack for the summer time Tropical Wilds! All of it will amaze you! Also, the music in Pikmin 3 (as well as in the other pikmin games) changes slightly, depending on whats happening. If you fight an enemy, a new piece is added, to make the music sound more intense and louder. If you carrying something, a soft piece is added, to make the music sound more peaceful. When working, the music gets lively, and once sunset approaches, the music gets very quiet, and calm! You will enjoy this game's soundtrack.

    Problems: One big problem with the game is, its a bit glitchy! Glitches can easily be exploited, good or bad. Also, the game is pretty short, but its made to be short, as its a speedrun game (A game made to be relatively, so it can be played, over and over again, for speedrunner). Also, the bosses aren't very tough. You may find them difficult at first, but after finding their weakness, they're a complete joke! The final boss however is quite difficult! Also, there's no real online play, just a simple leaderboard.

    Overall: Pikmin 3 is a awesome Sci-fi adventure, in a beautiful environment filled with many different odd creatures. Its mainly a RTS, mixed with a bit of puzzles, and action, that can be enjoyable for anyone, even newcomers. It is a bit glitchy from time to time, and once you find out how to beat a boss, you can easily destroy them after, once you find their weakness. Also there is a lack of online play, but the game still holds up as a gorgeous game with a calm atmosphere, and great music. There's even a 2 player mode, to try it out with a friend. A demo is downloadable now, so why not give it a try!
    Expand
  29. Dec 22, 2014
    9
    I have not played any previous Pikmin games, but this game is amazing!
    It has a happy atmosphere, simontaneously making you grief every time your pikmin army takes a heavy loss due to a bad descision of yours, or that you did not collect any fruit that day, making you live off your already suffering planets resources. The game gives you new unique pikmin and features as you progress,
    I have not played any previous Pikmin games, but this game is amazing!
    It has a happy atmosphere, simontaneously making you grief every time your pikmin army takes a heavy loss due to a bad descision of yours, or that you did not collect any fruit that day, making you live off your already suffering planets resources. The game gives you new unique pikmin and features as you progress, keeping it from getting repetetive.

    The vissuals are stunning, and very varied, I always wanted to explore everywhere for fruit. To see the world from these small guys' perspective is really neat.
    The boss fights are very unique, well designed and fun.

    The gameplay of Pikmin 3 is not like anything I've played before. It is a must play. It is not challenging being able to beat the game, but if you do not manage your resources properly it will take you many more in-game days to complete, and more fruit is wasted. The gameplay you must experience to udnerstand.

    The only drawbacks I have for this game are that the main story was semi-short (not by today's standars, really), lasting about 10 hours. If you are to collect all of the fruit, and aditional modes, it'll lst a lot longer though. I personaly used a wii remote for playing, which worked really well, but it forced me to use the gamepad once in a while. It would have been nice to get the option not to use it. If you put it in your lap, or on a chair next to you it will prove very useful however.

    The multiplayer is also fun, but nothing I feel like I could get more than 10 hours or so out of. basicaly, I will buy the rest of the series. That is how fun it was.
    Expand
  30. Jan 17, 2015
    9
    It's a shame that many won't be able to experience this amazing game. And yes, Pikmin 3 is amazing. From its visuals to its gameplay, it's surely a treat for players.

    First, the visuals. The graphics in the game are spectacular and in my opinion, it's the best-looking game on the Wii U alongside Mario Kart 8. It's not the level of graphics of your typical first-person shooter, but it
    It's a shame that many won't be able to experience this amazing game. And yes, Pikmin 3 is amazing. From its visuals to its gameplay, it's surely a treat for players.

    First, the visuals. The graphics in the game are spectacular and in my opinion, it's the best-looking game on the Wii U alongside Mario Kart 8. It's not the level of graphics of your typical first-person shooter, but it looks gorgeous especially whenever it rains and you can see water on the ground. I can't tell you how many times I was amazed by the visuals.

    The gameplay in the game is the same as all the other Pikmin games. Usually you have a specific goal to accomplish in a certain in-game day and you must use the different types of Pikmin that have joined with you to complete the goal. There are many types of Pikmin in the game: red (defends fire), blue (can survive in water), and yellow (can withstand electricity), as well as the new rock (can break objects) and winged (can fly) Pikmin. The purple and white Pikmin do not make an appearance in the main mode but they make a return in one of the game's side modes. The gameplay is simplistic and fun and while you may not accomplish what you want to do in a day, you always have the next one.

    The Wii U GamePad is used as a map in the game which can be both helpful and confusing at times. The map's overall layout is a bit confusing but whenever you're trying to round up Pikmin at the end of the day, it's extremely helpful. There are many bosses to fight in the game and to me, these bosses are always an important factor when scoring a game. Thankfully, the bosses are incredibly unique and all require the Pikmin to work together to beat them, making the bosses a true highlight in the game.

    Overall, Pikmin 3 is a must-have for any Wii U owner. It has great visuals, engaging gameplay, amazing and creative bosses, and a helpful GamePad feature. Look for it before it becomes rare!
    Expand
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 79 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 77 out of 79
  2. Negative: 0 out of 79
  1. Pelit (Finland)
    Oct 7, 2013
    87
    Pikmin 3 combines RTS elements, direct action and light puzzles. The result is a quite endearing scifi-adventure despite some control issues and bland splitscreen multiplayer. There's also no real need to develop special tactics for bosses. [Aug 2013]
  2. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Sep 19, 2013
    80
    Pikmin 3 is a greatly balanced, challenging at the right moments, original, adorable, and above all continually entertaining real-time strategy game, making you smile instantly. It's suited for all the gamers of all ages, and for both genders. [Issue#232]
  3. Sep 16, 2013
    80
    Pikmin 3 is a cute game with plenty of soul. It takes the concept from the two previous games one step further with the way it combines tactics with roleplaying. In terms of graphics this is probably the most beautiful game the world has ever seen on a Nintendo console.