Despite how cute this game is, Pikmin sets a new standard for real-time strategy and puzzle-solving games.
The storyline is one that can be understood by even the youngest of minds. A tiny captain (even smaller than a Gamecube disc) named Olimar has been forced to take a crash landing on an unknown planet after sustaining damage to his ship, the Dolphin. As Olimar regains consciousness, he is devastated to find that parts of his ship have been scattered across the land, and what's worse is that he has 30 days left before his oxygen tank expires. Whilst recovering from his endeavour, Olimar is faced with a red plant-like creature. He becomes curious of these creatures and ultimately gives it the name, Pikmin. This is where the fun really begins.
At the start, you only start with one Pikmin. However, there are certain objects which can multiply the number of Pikmin you have, such as pellets or enemies defeated. That single Pikmin takes it back to its own ship which then spits out a seed which will grow into your second Pikmin. As the number Pikmin increases, they are able to lift heavier things and complete obstacles more quickly. All in all, there are three main Pikmin types; red, yellow and blue. Red are strong and can withstand fire, Yellow can be thrown higher and can carry bomb-rocks and blue are able to swim in water.
As Olimar, you basically control them to do your bidding. Things such as lifting, moving, fighting, etc are all done by the Pikmin. Olimar can also enter battle but his attack proves weak while alone. Teamwork reveals itself as your Pikmin ammo begin to really grow. Pikmin are able to do multiple tasks such as; one group of Pikmin can be battling a giant rock spider while another group can be taking a part of your ship back to the Dolphin.
The controls work simple enough. The A button is used to launch the Pikimin in the air for attacks or to reach another area at a different altitude. The X button is used to disengage the Pikmin from doing anything and also separates them by colour while the B button is used to gather them. The Y button is used to view the map and the L, R and Z buttons are used to control the view. The C joystick is very handy as it controls where the Pikmin stand around Olimar. You can make stand behind Olimar to protect them or you can make them stand in front of Olimar as a shield. It also proves handy when you want to rush enemies and take them out quickly. All controls work fine, although the camera angles may be hard to master.
Graphically, it looks superb, even if the Gamecube doesn't boast the most powerful technology. All aspects of the game shine and add that certain realism everyone wants from a game. Artistically, it also looks outstanding. However, it is a bit on the cutesy side for all those macho boys who are into their first-person shooters so it may push people away from playing this game. Other than this, its a look that definitely suites this style of gameplay.
Sounds of Pikmin are unique because of the surrounding environment that they are put in. The background music is suited to all of the stages as it is for sound effects. Pikmin are given the yelps and high pitched noises, while the enemies are given similar sounds to that of bugs. The most gruesome thing you'll probably hear in the game is those poor Pikmin who are being crunched away by the enemies who got the better of them. It sounds similar to that of celery being chomped at if you want to get an idea, and don't forget the standard yelps of Pikmin while you're crunching away.
Overall, it's a game that is mostly under-appreciated due to the cute designs which most likely pushes gamers away. You may also find yourself frustrated because of the difficulty of controlling a large group of Pikmin at the same time and the time it takes to grow new Pikmin. While it takes quite some time before you really start rolling, you'll be hooked once you begin to understand how the game operates and see that Pikmin definitely is one for many strategists, puzzle-solvers and gamers alike.