The Pikmin series is having a strange relationship with Nintendo Switch 2. After Pikmin 3 Deluxe received a surprise PEGI rating for Switch 2 on December 28, 2024, attention has shifted to Pikmin 4, which bizarrely never got any Switch 2 enhancements despite being one of Nintendo’s strongest first-party releases from 2023. The community is now speculating whether the Pikmin 3 Deluxe rating signals that Nintendo is finally ready to give the entire Pikmin library proper next-gen treatment.
The Pikmin 3 Deluxe Rating Mystery
Nintendo of Europe SE filed a PEGI rating for Pikmin 3 Deluxe on Switch 2 with the same PEGI 3 classification as the original Switch version. The listing contains “occasional, very mild violence in a comical or abstract context” and is suitable for all ages. What makes this interesting is that the rating appears to be for a free update rather than a paid Switch 2 Edition, based on how it’s categorized compared to other games.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe desperately needs proper Switch 2 optimization. The game launched with severe technical problems on Switch 2 through backward compatibility, including constant screen flickering, visual glitches, input lag in menus, gameplay stuttering, hard crashes, and persistent visual artifacts. Nintendo released patches that addressed some issues, but the PEGI rating suggests a more comprehensive update is coming.
The original Switch version of Pikmin 3 Deluxe released in 2020 as an enhanced port of the Wii U game. It included a new prologue and epilogue featuring Captain Olimar and Louie, new difficulty modes, co-op support in story mode, the Piklopedia from Pikmin 2, and all previous DLC. A Switch 2 version could add resolution boosts, improved frame rates, and possibly HDR support.
The Pikmin 4 eShop Confusion
What makes the Pikmin 3 Deluxe rating particularly intriguing is the ongoing confusion surrounding Pikmin 4. In early December 2024, eagle-eyed fans noticed Pikmin 4 listed in the Nintendo eShop’s “enhanced when played on the Nintendo Switch 2 system” section. However, clicking on the game just led back to its main listing with no upgrade pack or Switch 2 update available.
This sparked immediate speculation about whether Nintendo accidentally revealed a coming update or simply miscategorized the game. Pikmin 4 had received substantial content updates in October and November 2024, adding Photo Mode, new difficulty options including Relaxed and Fierce modes, and Decor Pikmin from Pikmin Bloom. However, neither update included any Switch 2-specific enhancements.
The eShop placement seemed particularly bizarre because Pikmin 4 was conspicuously absent from the Switch 2 launch lineup. When the Switch 2 released in June 2024, Nintendo provided free updates for numerous first-party titles including Super Mario Odyssey, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, and Splatoon 3. None of the four Pikmin games available on Switch received launch enhancements.
Why Fans Are Frustrated With Nintendo
The Pikmin franchise’s Switch 2 treatment has frustrated fans who see the series as a perfect candidate for next-gen enhancements. Shigeru Miyamoto has repeatedly called Pikmin his favorite Nintendo franchise, yet it continues receiving less technical attention than Mario, Zelda, or Pokemon despite recent commercial success.
Pikmin 4 launched in July 2023 to critical acclaim and strong sales, exceeding 3.5 million copies. The game offered substantial content and was widely regarded as one of the best Switch releases that year. Given its strategic gameplay and detailed environments, many fans expected it would be among the first titles to receive proper Switch 2 optimization.
Mouse and keyboard support seems like an obvious addition that would significantly enhance the strategy-focused gameplay. The ability to precisely direct Pikmin using a mouse cursor rather than analog stick controls would feel natural and potentially attract PC strategy game fans to the franchise. However, Nintendo has shown no indication such features are planned.
| Feature | Community Request | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution boost | 4K docked, higher portable resolution | Not available |
| Frame rate improvement | 60fps or higher option | Not available |
| Mouse and keyboard support | PC-style strategy controls | Not announced |
| HDR support | Enhanced color and lighting | Not available |
| Additional content | New areas, Pikmin types, missions | Free content update released (no Switch 2 features) |
Free Update Versus Paid Edition
One major question is whether Pikmin 4 will receive a free Switch 2 update like Pikmin 3 Deluxe appears to be getting, or a paid Switch 2 Edition with additional content. Nintendo has released both types of upgrades, and the approach varies by title.
Free updates typically include performance improvements, resolution boosts, and HDR support without adding new content. Games like Super Mario Odyssey and Pokemon Scarlet and Violet received this treatment at Switch 2 launch. These updates incentivize existing owners to experience familiar games with enhanced visuals while keeping the barrier to entry low.
Paid Switch 2 Editions include new content, significant quality-of-life improvements, and sometimes exclusive features that justify the upgrade cost. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Bros. Wonder both received paid editions. These typically offer upgrade paths for existing owners at reduced prices while selling as standalone products for newcomers.
Leaker Nash Weedle claimed in July 2024 that Pikmin 4 would receive a proper Switch 2 Edition “with some additions,” though this remains unverified. Nash Weedle has a mixed track record, with some accurate predictions and notable misses. The October 2024 content update that added new difficulties and Decor Pikmin could have been the “additions” referenced, though it came without Switch 2 enhancements.
What Could A Switch 2 Edition Include
If Nintendo does release a proper Pikmin 4 Switch 2 Edition, several features seem like natural additions beyond basic performance improvements. The October 2024 content update demonstrated Nintendo’s willingness to expand the game post-launch, suggesting the framework exists for more substantial additions.
New story missions or areas would provide compelling reasons for players to revisit the game. Pikmin 4 already offered substantial content, but additional caves, overworld sections, or even a second campaign following different characters could extend playtime significantly. The game’s structure lends itself well to episodic content additions.
Cross-save functionality with the Switch version would allow players to transfer progress between systems. Currently, Nintendo treats Switch and Switch 2 versions as separate entities in most cases, but cloud saves could enable seamless transitions. This would be particularly valuable given the Switch 2’s improved portable experience.
Enhanced multiplayer features could expand beyond the local co-op currently available. Online multiplayer, whether cooperative or competitive, has been frequently requested by the community. The Bingo Battle mode from Pikmin 3 proved popular, and expanding that concept with online functionality could significantly extend the game’s longevity.
The Bigger Nintendo Strategy Question
The handling of Pikmin on Switch 2 raises broader questions about Nintendo’s upgrade strategy for first-party titles. The company has been inconsistent in determining which games receive free updates versus paid editions, and the criteria for these decisions remain unclear.
Some patterns have emerged. Newer games released in the final years of the original Switch’s lifecycle, like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, received free updates. Older beloved titles like Breath of the Wild and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe got paid Switch 2 Editions with new content. However, exceptions exist that don’t fit these patterns.
Pikmin 4’s October 2024 content update arriving without Switch 2 features seemed particularly odd. Nintendo promoted the update through a dedicated trailer and social media campaign, yet made no mention of Switch 2 optimization despite the console already being on the market for months. This suggests either technical challenges or deliberate strategic decisions about when to deploy Switch 2 versions.
When Might Updates Actually Arrive
PEGI ratings typically appear within weeks to a couple months before actual releases or updates launch. The December 28, 2024 rating for Pikmin 3 Deluxe suggests an announcement could come in early 2025, possibly during a Nintendo Direct presentation or as a surprise shadow drop on social media.
If Pikmin 4 is indeed receiving similar treatment, the timing would likely align with Pikmin 3 Deluxe’s update unless Nintendo plans staggered releases. Announcing both updates simultaneously would generate more buzz and demonstrate Nintendo’s commitment to supporting the Pikmin franchise on Switch 2.
However, Nintendo’s communication strategy around Switch 2 updates has been inconsistent. Some updates arrived with formal announcements and detailed feature breakdowns, while others simply appeared in patch notes with minimal fanfare. The company might view Pikmin updates as lower priority compared to major franchises, resulting in quieter rollouts.
Community Theories And Speculation
The Pikmin community has developed various theories about what Nintendo’s plans might be. One popular speculation suggests the company is preparing a comprehensive Pikmin celebration similar to what Mario and Zelda received for their anniversaries. This could include Switch 2 updates for all games alongside announcements about future franchise entries.
Another theory posits that Nintendo intentionally delayed Pikmin Switch 2 updates to ensure they could be properly optimized. The technical problems Pikmin 3 Deluxe experienced through basic backward compatibility demonstrated that simply running Switch games on more powerful hardware doesn’t guarantee good results. Taking extra time to do proper optimization work could prevent similar issues with Pikmin 4.
Some pessimistic fans worry Nintendo might be deprioritizing Pikmin despite recent commercial success. The franchise has never achieved Mario or Zelda-level sales, and the company might be allocating development resources to projects with broader appeal. However, this seems unlikely given Pikmin 4’s strong performance and the October 2024 content update demonstrating ongoing support.
FAQs
Has Nintendo officially announced Pikmin 4 for Switch 2?
No, Nintendo has not made any official announcements about a Pikmin 4 Switch 2 update or edition. The speculation comes from the Pikmin 3 Deluxe PEGI rating and the brief appearance of Pikmin 4 in the eShop’s Switch 2-enhanced games section, which many believe was either an error or premature listing.
Will the Pikmin 3 Deluxe Switch 2 update be free?
Based on how the PEGI rating is categorized, it appears to be a free update rather than a paid Switch 2 Edition. Free updates typically include performance improvements and visual enhancements without adding new content, while paid editions include substantial new features or content that justify the upgrade cost.
What problems did Pikmin 3 Deluxe have on Switch 2?
Pikmin 3 Deluxe experienced severe technical issues when played on Switch 2 through backward compatibility, including constant screen flickering, visual glitches, input lag in menus, gameplay stuttering, hard crashes, and persistent visual artifacts. Nintendo released patches that partially addressed these problems, but issues remained widespread enough that the PEGI rating suggests a more comprehensive fix is coming.
Why didn’t Pikmin 4 get a Switch 2 update at launch?
Nintendo has not explained why Pikmin 4 was excluded from the Switch 2 launch lineup when many other first-party titles received free updates. The decision seems particularly puzzling given Pikmin 4’s recent release in 2023 and strong sales. Possible explanations include technical challenges requiring more development time or strategic decisions about release timing.
Could Pikmin 4 get mouse and keyboard support?
Mouse and keyboard support is one of the most frequently requested features for a Pikmin 4 Switch 2 version, as the precision would significantly enhance the strategic gameplay. However, Nintendo has not announced such features, and historically the company has been hesitant to add PC-style controls to console games even when they would make sense.
When might Pikmin Switch 2 updates be announced?
PEGI ratings typically appear weeks to months before actual releases. The December 28, 2024 rating for Pikmin 3 Deluxe suggests an announcement could come in early 2025, possibly during a Nintendo Direct or as a surprise social media reveal. If Pikmin 4 is receiving similar treatment, the timing would likely align with the Pikmin 3 Deluxe update.
Is Nash Weedle a reliable leaker?
Nash Weedle has a mixed track record with accurate predictions alongside notable misses. The leaker claimed in July 2024 that Pikmin 4 would receive a Switch 2 Edition “with some additions,” but this hasn’t been verified. Community opinions on the leaker’s reliability are divided, with some crediting accurate predictions while others point to numerous incorrect claims.
What’s the difference between a free update and a Switch 2 Edition?
Free updates typically include performance improvements like higher resolution, better frame rates, and sometimes HDR support without adding new content. Switch 2 Editions are paid upgrades that include new content, significant quality-of-life improvements, or exclusive features alongside performance enhancements. Games like Mario Odyssey got free updates while Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom got a paid edition.
Conclusion
The Pikmin 3 Deluxe PEGI rating for Switch 2 has reignited hope that Nintendo is finally preparing comprehensive support for the Pikmin franchise on its latest console. After months of confusion involving the eShop listing error, backward compatibility problems, and content updates without Switch 2 enhancements, the community desperately wants clarity about Nintendo’s plans. Pikmin 4 deserves proper next-gen treatment given its critical acclaim and commercial success, and features like mouse support would be perfect additions for the strategic gameplay. Whether Nintendo delivers free performance updates or paid editions with new content remains to be seen, but the Pikmin 3 Deluxe rating suggests movement is finally happening. For a series Miyamoto calls his favorite, the lack of Switch 2 attention has been baffling. Fans can only hope the coming updates signal renewed commitment to showing Pikmin the same love Nintendo gives its bigger franchises. The next few months should provide answers about whether Pikmin will truly flourish on Switch 2 or remain stuck in the strange limbo it’s occupied since the console’s launch.