The Pikmin are back in action! Following its initial release on Nintendo Switch on July 21, 2023, Pikmin 4 is set to return in an enhanced edition for Nintendo Switch 2 on November 12, 2026. Titled Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy, this new edition of Nintendo’s strategy and exploration game adds graphical enhancements, voice commands for Otchin, and a series of additional challenges.
Unveiled during the Nintendo Direct on September 9, 2026, this new edition reprises the original adventure and introduces several features exclusive to Nintendo’s new console. Environments are rendered in greater detail, while Otchin, the loyal rescue dog, can now respond to voice commands thanks to the Nintendo Switch 2’s built-in microphone.
Another new feature is Dandori Academy, an additional mode in which players must collect treasures as quickly as possible. The goal is to plan the Pikmin’s movements efficiently and divide up tasks to complete the trials in the fastest time.
This new mode features three difficulty levels, medals to earn, and online leaderboards. Exams are also held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A total of 72 levels are to be added gradually to Dandori Academy.
Players who already own Pikmin 4 on Nintendo Switch will be able to purchase an upgrade to this new edition without having to buy the full game again. A physical version is also planned for Nintendo Switch 2.
This fourth adventure introduces new Pikmin, including Ice Pikmin and Glow Pikmin, which are used on nighttime expeditions.
As for the gameplay, the core mechanics remain faithful to previous installments: collecting Pikmin, making use of their specific abilities, and coordinating their actions to progress through the different environments. The game also introduces Oatchi, a rescue dog capable of carrying Pikmin and helping to overcome certain obstacles.
For fans of the franchise, Pikmin 3 Deluxe is still available on Nintendo Switch, as is Pikmin Bloom on mobile. While they wait for November 12, players can get back to their expeditions and hone their organizational skills. Grab your controllers!
Our review of Pikmin 4:
So, how does Pikmin 4 fare on Nintendo Switch? It builds on the overall formula of Pikmin 3, as well as its simplified gameplay for Nintendo Switch, so the game could have quickly become repetitive... But Nintendo has reworked much of the gameplay and added a whole host of new features, bringing a welcome breath of fresh air.
Starting with new Pikmin! Meet the Ice Pikmin, which can freeze enemies and bodies of water, as well as the Glow Pikmin, used during nighttime expeditions and in caves. Nighttime expeditions are another new feature in this installment, offering gameplay that differs completely from the usual progression across the various maps and is reminiscent of "Tower Defense". These expeditions are shorter, but essential for progressing through the adventure.
Next up are the caves, another new feature in Nintendo's game. More specifically, they are a kind of dungeon where time passes differently than on the surface, allowing you to spend longer on a map. Add Oatchi, a dog the player can control, and mechanics that make use of all the new areas, and the result is a completely innovative and enjoyable experience for newcomers and longtime fans alike.
Otherwise, the premise remains the same: collect Pikmin to make progress and rescue Olimar, your expedition companion. We also appreciate the ability to customize your avatar, a first for the franchise!
In short, Pikmin 4 is a great success in almost every respect, and probably the game of the summer—you need to get it right away! Grab your Joy-Cons!
And for the other trailers, click here:
This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.
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Dates and Opening Time
Starts November 12, 2026
Prices
€59.99
Recommended age
From 3 years old
Official website
www.nintendo.fr
