Pikmin 4

A masterpiece that completely delivers, blending tranquil micromanagement with satisfying chaos as you command swarms of little creatures against remixed bosses, with the new companion Oatchi a standout addition. It makes a poor first impression thanks to a slow, interruption-heavy first hour of tutorials and blabbing, but once it opens up it becomes one of the best in the series. The post-game in particular seals it as a great game.

A sumptuous strategy adventure and arguably the most comprehensive entry in the series, drawing inspiration from Pikmin 2 while welcoming newcomers. The new companion Oatchi is the star, the returning dungeons are the best yet, and night expeditions and Dandori battles sweeten a stunning, smooth-running package. Its weaknesses are a disappointing co-op mode and a campaign that rarely forces you to use your full toolkit, but it remains effortlessly essential.

A polished, charming entry that keeps the beloved real-time-strategy core loop while adding a surprising number of new mechanics: ice and glow Pikmin, the versatile dog Oatchi, optional time rewind, puzzle-focused caves, and night Tower Defense expeditions. Visuals and audio are gorgeous and worth the long wait. The bigger glut of treasures lowers the difficulty and pacing tension, and the loss of full campaign co-op and the gyro pointer are baffling steps back, but it is still hugely fun.

At its core this is pleasant, agreeable, and gratifying, built around relaxing environmental puzzles and gathering treasures with your little plant army. Riding the rideable companion Ochi and flexible upgrades are welcome additions, and the gentle, unobtrusive story fits the mellow pace. The more it leans into traditional competition and fail states, though, with the competitive dandori battles feeling especially out of place, the more it gets in its own way.