Pikmin 3

 Wii U
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 810 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 725 out of 810
  2. Mixed: 35 out of 810
  3. 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
view
per page
  1. frugal_frogger
    Sep 4, 2013
    10
    This is the kind of game Wii U was made for. It's cute, the graphics are more animate-y than realistic (a good thing). The strategy element is fantastic on par with some of the more violent and civ-based strategy games. Great game.
  2. jamesweber
    Aug 21, 2013
    10
    this is what the wii-u was made for. you need to play it if you want to get back into those smooth graphics, how the water, air and natural surroundings make you feel like you're floating on clouds or cotton candy or something. i love how nintendo developers are actually artistic rather than realistic baroque squares. anyway play the damn game.
  3. Rob1986
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    I've neglected to write a review for this game, but I feel the need to let people know how insanely fun this was for me. The campaign was enough fun by itself to get me to play it through twice, however the most fun I had was playing the challenges. I soloed each of them to 100% because they were such a riot. When I finished that I had not had enough, So I opened my wallet and boughtI've neglected to write a review for this game, but I feel the need to let people know how insanely fun this was for me. The campaign was enough fun by itself to get me to play it through twice, however the most fun I had was playing the challenges. I soloed each of them to 100% because they were such a riot. When I finished that I had not had enough, So I opened my wallet and bought all the DLC. Each challenge level required it's own strategy, and it took a fair # of hours to figure out a base strategy which I could re-use. I loved this thing, and may have to buy a Switch if only for the pleasure of playing Pikmin 4.… Expand
  4. currer_bell
    May 5, 2015
    10
    Everything about this game is perfect. Personnally I prefer shorter games with high replay value and this title certainly hits the mark. Once you've beaten it you'll want to start all over again. Beautiful graphics and atmosphere, cool characters and ennemies, very original and fun to play, addictive.... Pikmin 3 is still the best Wii U game so far.
  5. TheGale
    Feb 28, 2014
    10
    Pikmin 3 is one of those games that you can't get anywhere else and you really don't see frequently. With inventive level design and pretty good challenge, it easily stands out as one of my favorite games of 2013 and a must have to every one who is planning to get a Wii U.

    I even found myself replaying every single "In-Game Day" (Level) over and over, as many times as possible to get    Pikmin 3 is one of those games that you can't get anywhere else and you really don't see frequently. With inventive level design and pretty good challenge, it easily stands out as one of my favorite games of 2013 and a must have to every one who is planning to get a Wii U.

    I even found myself replaying every single "In-Game Day" (Level) over and over, as many times as possible to get the best results (Less Pikmin dead and more stuff collected in a single day). The level of immersion in this game is really awesome, and gameplay mechanics kept me playing four hours!    … Expand
  6. Ravyu
    Aug 8, 2013
    10
    This game has the Nintendo charm that I wanted on a Nintendo game, especially considering it is the first MAJOR Nintendo software for the Wii U that really shows that every bit of charm Nintendo had in it's games 20 years ago still prevails in this wonderful game.

    The environment is much, much better than what I expected (to those who say the ground textures look horrible, I would have    This game has the Nintendo charm that I wanted on a Nintendo game, especially considering it is the first MAJOR Nintendo software for the Wii U that really shows that every bit of charm Nintendo had in it's games 20 years ago still prevails in this wonderful game.

    The environment is much, much better than what I expected (to those who say the ground textures look horrible, I would have agreed with you if I had never even seen the game in person). Beautiful creatures (some of the bosses are just booming with Wii U-power enhancements), cutesy pikmin (have you even seen how adorable those pink pikmin are??) and three awfully charming characters, Pikmin 3 retains the same wow-factor Pikmin 1 and 2 had back in the days.

    The game controls very well, but only if you have a Wii Remote Nunchuck. Any other way to play this game is just drawing your experience away from some of the fast-paced levels in this game, which is disappointing, considering the fact Wii remotes aren't even included with the Wii U SKU's. The Wii U gamepad takes on the role of a map, displaying important information such as pikmin location, directions, etc. Though this isn't the revolutionary use of touchscreen Nintendo had promised, it does live up to being a welcomed addition to the game.

    Overall I would rate this a 9.5 (rounding it up makes it 10     … Expand
  7. Dalpian
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    Perfect game, that's how game developer should be. Thats why i will always love nintendo with their magical and innovative games. Please Nintendo, never give up, and forget the trolls
  8. Paquito
    Aug 11, 2013
    10
    A Classic. The cleverest design level you have ever seen on a piece of art since Super Mario Galaxy. The quality of music is superhuman. The capacity to surprise does not end even when you play it for the third time (as I do now). Pikmin 3 is the contemporary cult classic that the industry needed.
  9. lucaskegler
    Oct 13, 2014
    10
    Indiscutivelmente Pikmin 3 é muito cativante, com um desafio extraordinário, inclusive e principalmente na DLC liberada depois. Os gráficos são belíssimos, é divertido enfrentar os chefes, tem um apelo ecológico legal, os personagens são engraçados e além de tudo tem o capricho da Nintendo, vale à pena ser jogado. Ótimo.
  10. Hasan64
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    this game is absolutely stunningly beautiful. there is nothing like pikmin, its one of its kind and it sure is an amazing experience. pikmin 3 is so simple, yet so good.
    it just feels as if you are in your garden collecting fruit. such an amazing game!
  11. Darkresurrect
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    This game deserve sincerely a 10/10 because is a masterpiece a game unique on its own I agree with many other critics that says (there's no other games out there like Pikmin 3) even in 2013 it feels original and the graphics are amazing. The only main con that I found is that there's no online multiplayer or coop for the main story. But besides that is an awesome great and beautiful gameThis game deserve sincerely a 10/10 because is a masterpiece a game unique on its own I agree with many other critics that says (there's no other games out there like Pikmin 3) even in 2013 it feels original and the graphics are amazing. The only main con that I found is that there's no online multiplayer or coop for the main story. But besides that is an awesome great and beautiful game for the people that are new to the Pikmin series and for the old fans of the series. Mr. Miyamoto thank you for such a wonderful masterpiece creation for us.… Expand
  12. Autosaver
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    A fantastic sequel to a great franchise. This is a must own for Wii U owners. It's a software title that really shows off how Nintendo can launch great games for their systems. Great graphics, atmosphere, and gameplay will push this game ahead. If you own a Wii U, you'd be silly not the pick this up. Buy it now.
  13. BloodyRandy
    Aug 19, 2013
    10
    A breathe of fresh air and the Wii- mote and nunchuck work strangely well for a console rts, can I dare say even better than a mouse and keyboard? Every now and then you use the Wii u controller to answer a phone call or to swipe the map, the game auto saves when you do this like the developers thought of everything to make this game a relaxing and slow paced game if you so desire. It'sA breathe of fresh air and the Wii- mote and nunchuck work strangely well for a console rts, can I dare say even better than a mouse and keyboard? Every now and then you use the Wii u controller to answer a phone call or to swipe the map, the game auto saves when you do this like the developers thought of everything to make this game a relaxing and slow paced game if you so desire. It's got that Christmas morning feeling and takes you into the story immediately without clutter or company logos to reduce the experience. Just simply a fantastic game with a lot of polish and Myamoto written all over it.

    In a world cluttered with shooters Pikmin 3 shines as something refreshingly new and a franchise that has been missed by most (I haven't played Pikmin 1 or 2)    … Expand
  14. VonSeux
    Mar 25, 2015
    10
    outstanding level design with so much room for player improvement and replayability, extra modes are very fun, a game polished to the bone, perfect presentation and progression.
  15. SwitSwat
    Jul 31, 2014
    10
    I admit that I wasn't planning on buying Pikmin 3. Don't get me wrong, I like the series, but this wasn't a game that I was DYING to have. When the free game offer from buying Mario Kart 8 came along, I decided to download Pikmin 3 and I must say... It's fantastic! It may not be as lengthy as Pikmin 2, but the beautiful graphics, the new Wii U game mechanics, and the return of 'days' offerI admit that I wasn't planning on buying Pikmin 3. Don't get me wrong, I like the series, but this wasn't a game that I was DYING to have. When the free game offer from buying Mario Kart 8 came along, I decided to download Pikmin 3 and I must say... It's fantastic! It may not be as lengthy as Pikmin 2, but the beautiful graphics, the new Wii U game mechanics, and the return of 'days' offer a new challenge to try and do better on days that you either didn't do well on or want to beat your best. I can now say, it is one of the must haves for Wii U.… Expand
  16. setz
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    Instant classic. It's a game that is fun, humorous, challenging, brilliant and full of charm. It's a crowning moment for Nintendo with a perfect release like this.
  17. vkaraujo
    Aug 19, 2013
    10
    Amazing game. A good balance between the first and the second title was found.
    If games like this keeps coming out, nintendo wii u has everything to be a success.
  18. McSkittle
    Aug 27, 2013
    10
    Pikmin 3 is a masterpiece. Flying pikmin and the gameplay is intense. This is the best high definition game. The hidden memos are nice and with extra challenges you get your money worth. multiplayer is awesome.
  19. TheMitch
    Aug 13, 2013
    10
    In the beginning, there was nothing except Mr. Miyamoto. Mr. Miyamoto said "Let there be Pikmin 3!" The game began to materialise, sometimes fading back into delay, but eventually coming fully into existence. Mr. Miyamoto was pleased with what he'd created, and distributed Pikmin 3 all around the world for others to enjoy. At this point, you're probably wondering where everyone else cameIn the beginning, there was nothing except Mr. Miyamoto. Mr. Miyamoto said "Let there be Pikmin 3!" The game began to materialise, sometimes fading back into delay, but eventually coming fully into existence. Mr. Miyamoto was pleased with what he'd created, and distributed Pikmin 3 all around the world for others to enjoy. At this point, you're probably wondering where everyone else came from. To which I'd say that that isn't all that important. What is important, however, is the fact that Pikmin 3 is definitely the best game on Wii U to date. The controls feel very natural with the Wii Remote Nunchuk combo with its simple "point and click" mechanic, making it easy to grasp for beginners, and easy to manoeuvre for the more experienced Pikmin players. And the crazy-addictive Mission mode and Bingo Battle multiplayer more than make up for the slight shortness of the Story mode. But the shortness is again justified as the game records your top five fastest runs through Story mode to keep you engaged for longer as you strive for a personal best or a world record. And the graphics; oh, bellissimo! Normally, I would say graphical detail doesn't matter in video games. But just one glance at the visuals and your jaw will hit the floor, such is its beauty. In fact, Pikmin 3 boasts the best graphical detail I've ever seen in any video game, making the wait for future titles of the same detail that much more exciting (and agonising!). Overall, this game is pretty much perfect. Sure, your Pikmin may get stuck in annoying places. Or they might not even come when called. But that will hardly prove to be any hindrance. Fan of the franchise or not, this is a must-buy for any Wii U owner, and a system seller for anyone on the fence about buying a Wii U. Pikmin 3 marks the beginning of the end of the Wii U's "drought", and a gratifying revival of a franchise nine years dormant.… Expand
  20. sd11
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    Excellent game. At first I was unsure about whether to buy this, I have never played Pikmin before and this game seemed to have no appeal for me. Due to the lack of Wii U games I decded to buy this. As it it turned out this was one of teh best gaming purchases I have made. The game is a decent size and also has amazing replayability. This is quite easily one of the best games I have everyExcellent game. At first I was unsure about whether to buy this, I have never played Pikmin before and this game seemed to have no appeal for me. Due to the lack of Wii U games I decded to buy this. As it it turned out this was one of teh best gaming purchases I have made. The game is a decent size and also has amazing replayability. This is quite easily one of the best games I have every played.
    You control various Pikmin, all of whom have different powers. Some of the need to be used to cross water and fight water monsters, others are fireproof and others can channel electricity. Use your Pikmin to gather fruit so that you do not starve and so that you can save your homeworld. At the same time guide them through levels to try to find out how to get your space ship home after crash landing.
    Amazing game. I recommend this game for every Wii U owner, it is amazing.    … Expand
  21. Thegodfatherson
    Aug 29, 2013
    10
    Epic. Just epic. Wii u rock! Pikmin 3 has a cute story and excellent gameplay to it. Must buy if you are a strategy fan or action helps! But the real hero is the controls! Wii u handles it beautifully.
  22. Friendzie
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    There's nothing quite like PIkmin. It's the perfect mix of strategy, puzzle, action, simplicity, style and substance. You gather and grow Pikmin to suit your needs to explore levels and recover items. The only thing I can think that might bother some people is the timer, but running out of time for a day only serves as a way to break up your gameplay experience and gives hardcore playersThere's nothing quite like PIkmin. It's the perfect mix of strategy, puzzle, action, simplicity, style and substance. You gather and grow Pikmin to suit your needs to explore levels and recover items. The only thing I can think that might bother some people is the timer, but running out of time for a day only serves as a way to break up your gameplay experience and gives hardcore players bragging rights when they do things the fastest way possible. In no way does being speedy matter other than to give you something to shoot for when you decide to play through the story again. With new levels, new Pikmin types, better graphics and new modes, this game is a worthy addition to the series and seriously a reason to buy a Wii U. You absolutely can't find a game quite like Pikmin on any other platform.… Expand
  23. jckapono
    Aug 7, 2013
    10
    This game is the reason I bought a Wii U. I can't really explain the allure. There is really no comparison other than Pikmin games. If you've played those, you'll love this, because it is the best iteration thus far. I rate it a 10 because of the unexpected joy I get from playing it. Whether it be sharing pictures to Miiverse or collecting fruit or following the story, there is alwaysThis game is the reason I bought a Wii U. I can't really explain the allure. There is really no comparison other than Pikmin games. If you've played those, you'll love this, because it is the best iteration thus far. I rate it a 10 because of the unexpected joy I get from playing it. Whether it be sharing pictures to Miiverse or collecting fruit or following the story, there is always something interesting to do, and I can see vast amounts of replay-ability with the story mode alone, and I haven't even gotten to mission mode or multiplayer. It's one of the best games I have played in a long, long time. Critics understand that this is a good game, but many can't seem to put their finger on exactly why. That is Pikmin. And if any of them spent more time with the game besides just playing through for their review, they'd see an excellent game, a true classic, and one that perhaps can't be berated for anything. 90s and high 80s are good reviews, but this game nears perfection for me. And anyone who tells you otherwise either hasn't played it or is trolling. Oh, it's also the best looking game...probably... ever created on a console. Win all around.… Expand
  24. timsdeece
    Aug 19, 2013
    10
    This game had a wonderfully innovative control scheme that I feel people didn't give enough of a chance and so just rushed back to the familar wii-mote control scheme. With that being said the wii-mote control scheme still feels very fresh and I used it for boss battles. I would highly recommend using the pad in general though, scouting first then retry the day with everything you need toThis game had a wonderfully innovative control scheme that I feel people didn't give enough of a chance and so just rushed back to the familar wii-mote control scheme. With that being said the wii-mote control scheme still feels very fresh and I used it for boss battles. I would highly recommend using the pad in general though, scouting first then retry the day with everything you need to do in mind. You can get so much done when you work the three main characters simultaneously at different tasks. The game itself looks beautiful, the world is vibrant and lovely. The campaign lasted a healthy 18 hours for me, I collected all the fruit in that time. Beyond the campaign there are missions which you can play single or with a friend. These involve collecting fruit and defeating enemies to rack up points all within a certain time limit. Again proper strategy is the key along with level familiarity. Me and my girlfriend are still playing these. Last is bingo battle mode which I have unfortunately yet to play because I am enjoying mission mode so much. Overall I could not fault the game.… Expand
  25. Fairy
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    It's the best Wii U game I've ever played. And it's also one of the best games I've ever played on any consoles. It's a simplified RTS that has cute graphics and theme. "Simplified" means it's not as stressful as starcraft II. There's also no strict goal you should accomplish like in sc2. It's more open IMO. You can choose your own phase as long as you get enough food.
    The story mode is    It's the best Wii U game I've ever played. And it's also one of the best games I've ever played on any consoles. It's a simplified RTS that has cute graphics and theme. "Simplified" means it's not as stressful as starcraft II. There's also no strict goal you should accomplish like in sc2. It's more open IMO. You can choose your own phase as long as you get enough food.
    The story mode is addictive and feels rewarding. The gameplay is also broken down into days. Some people complained about the restriction but I think it's good and more realistic. You have more control over how much time do you need to play the game until next stop. Quite good for people with tight schedule but still want to play a good game.

    I used to play with only the gamepad, but found later that the wii remote is a much better choice. It's frustrating to use the gamepad to select pikmins to whistle at. However you still need the gamepad to see maps. And only on map can you set a goal so a player can "Go there" by his/her own. This way you can set 3 leaders to go to different places at the same time.    … Expand
  26. jholden3249
    Aug 12, 2013
    10
    Pikmin 3 is quite possibly the best game I've ever played. Certainly the best in the last 5 years or so. When I bought Pikmin 3, I was excited to be sure, but I certainly wasn't prepared for the onslaught of enjoyment this game would end up providing. This game excels in every way, from the gorgeous presentation, the complex worlds and puzzles, the endearing characters and story to thePikmin 3 is quite possibly the best game I've ever played. Certainly the best in the last 5 years or so. When I bought Pikmin 3, I was excited to be sure, but I certainly wasn't prepared for the onslaught of enjoyment this game would end up providing. This game excels in every way, from the gorgeous presentation, the complex worlds and puzzles, the endearing characters and story to the ever-so-addicting core gameplay. I'm thoroughly impressed, to say the least. I can't seem to put this game down, and often end up playing it well into the night, resulting in a lack of sleep for work the next day lol. Pikmin 3 is a clear-cut masterpiece. What else can I say. The last time I enjoyed a game this much was probably the Metroid Prime games on the Cube. BUY IT!!!… Expand
  27. adamhorton
    Aug 16, 2013
    10
    Wonderful game brimming with Nintendo magic and charm. The graphics are lovely in HD, the soundtrack is mesmerizing, and the game-play is loads of fun.
  28. vrildox
    Aug 6, 2013
    10
    Best game on the Wii U. Best game in the franchise. I've been playing gaming for almost 30 years and I could count on my hands how many games I've completed 100%. Pikmin is one of those games that you want to find and do everything in the game because it's so much fun! Pikmin 3 is no exception. If you own a Wii U, buy this game immediately. If you don't, buy a Wii U and get this game. ThisBest game on the Wii U. Best game in the franchise. I've been playing gaming for almost 30 years and I could count on my hands how many games I've completed 100%. Pikmin is one of those games that you want to find and do everything in the game because it's so much fun! Pikmin 3 is no exception. If you own a Wii U, buy this game immediately. If you don't, buy a Wii U and get this game. This is a system seller.… Expand
  29. Zorpix
    Aug 8, 2013
    10
    I was really on the fence about buying this game, because I wasn't the biggest fan of past Pikmin games. That being said, I decided to give Pikmin one more go. Am I glad I did! This game is amazing, and really showcases the Wii U's power, and Nintendo's ability to make amazing games that dazzle and charm. This game has so much character, depth, and personality that it's almost impossibleI was really on the fence about buying this game, because I wasn't the biggest fan of past Pikmin games. That being said, I decided to give Pikmin one more go. Am I glad I did! This game is amazing, and really showcases the Wii U's power, and Nintendo's ability to make amazing games that dazzle and charm. This game has so much character, depth, and personality that it's almost impossible to hate. The gamepad is used beautifully, helping me keep track of all my Pikmin, and acting as a little camera as well. This game is really tight and well thought out. The only thing I'm noticing is that it could've been a tad longer for single player mode, but the challenge modes and bingo battle add hours of replayability. I HIGHLY recommend this game to anyone, even if you weren't a fan of previous Pikmin games… Expand
  30. icecreamonday
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    I came into pikmin 3 expecting something a little bit easier than the previous titles, and to not be quite as fun. I was wrong. Pikmin 3 is a game where you play as distant explorers on a journey to save their home planet by gathering the massive (To them) fruits that liter the distant planet, known to them as PNF-404
    (lol 404 error). The ship crashes and the explorers are stranded and    I came into pikmin 3 expecting something a little bit easier than the previous titles, and to not be quite as fun. I was wrong. Pikmin 3 is a game where you play as distant explorers on a journey to save their home planet by gathering the massive (To them) fruits that liter the distant planet, known to them as PNF-404
    (lol 404 error). The ship crashes and the explorers are stranded and separated.
    Once reunited, they must collect fruit and track down another explorer who has found and taken their missing hyperdrive key (Which they need to get home). Pikmin 3 looks beautiful; textures gleam and reflect the sunlight, Bulborb spots get slightly bigger and smaller as the bulborbs snooze in the open plains, and cave areas are dark and moist. Boss battles, though some are obvious (HEY LOOK YOU MIGHT WANT TO THROW ROCK PIKMIN AT THAT OKAY!!?!?!?!?) others will stump you (I'm looking at YOU, 3rd (Major) boss.) and others are just fun. Enemies can be attacked in certain areas for more damage (Eyes, etc.), and you can command captains to do things using a map. Everyone who plays games should at least try this game, and enjoy its super fun and adorable gameplay, characters, and strategic gameplay.    … Expand
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best Wii U Game of 2013
4
#4 Most Discussed Wii U Game of 2013
5
#5 Most Shared Wii U Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 79 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 77 out of 79
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 79
  3. 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. Gamer.no
    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.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »