Leave them desiring Olimore
Version Assessed: European
- review by Jim Norman
- 7 hours ago
The newest entry into the realm of excessively titled Nintendo Switch 2 Editions is an unusual one. Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy takes the Switch 1 title that I have long deemed suitable for a fresh hardware enhancement and does…not an abundance with it. It’s an opportunity to revisit one of Nintendo’s greatest games from the previous generation, and the upgrade cost (£7.99 / $9.99) is indeed a minor one, but in terms of ‘novelties’, I find myself longing for more.
Let’s begin with the typical ‘Switch 2 Edition’ frills and extras. Pikmin 4 now operates in breathtaking native 4K resolution while docked, and there’s enhanced GameShare functionality for those who wish to engage in cross-console Dandori Battles with a friend.
In my opinion, Pikmin 4 was already among the most visually appealing titles on Switch 1, and the resolution enhancement doesn’t feel revolutionary. Nevertheless, it’s undeniable that it looks even more stunning on the upgraded hardware.
Oddly enough, the standard Switch 2 features of a 60fps upgrade and Mouse Mode are not present this time. While the first is disappointing, the latter genuinely baffles me. Nintendo has forcefully implemented this control method everywhere, yet it’s missing from a game with a stick-controlled pointer? Even in the cooperative Pebble Pitcher mode? Absurd!
There’s also a new Howl-Out function that allows you to vocalize commands to Oatchi through the Switch 2 microphone. It’s a charming, albeit sometimes erratic, little feature that I promptly disabled after noticing my real-life dog becoming annoyed at my yelling “Good Pup!” without giving him a pat on the head.
The major newcomer is the titular Dandori Academy, where your objective is to clear a stage’s treasures as swiftly as possible. You train during the week, then undergo a weekend ‘exam’, unlocking various medals and in-game rewards along the way.
