There's one thing I can say with absolute certainty about Pikmin 3. It feels ridiculously good to get back into the world of Pikmin. While the Pikmin franchise definitely has its roots in some other games, I really don't feel that the overall experience is anything like any other franchises out there. Games like Little King's Story are few and far between, but it's very clear that they were heavily influenced by what Pikmin 1 and 2 did so well. Pikmin 3 continues that tradition wonderfully, but it looks more gorgeous than ever while doing so.
I had the opportunity to play Pikmin 3 with the Wiimote and Nunchuk setup. It controlled like an absolute dream. If you've played New Play Control: Pikmin, you know exactly what it feels like. It seems like the Wiimote and Nunchuk were made especially for Pikmin. I can't say that the GamePad wouldn't feel just as great since I didn't use it, but I really think it'd be hard press to match up with the ease and accuracy of the Wiimote.
With that said, the GamePad provided me with a wonderful tool while running through my demo. The Wii U controller was propped up nicely in front of the TV while I was playing. That meant I had an overhead view of the surrounding area that I was taking my Pikmin through. It made it much easier to figure out what kind of terrain and hurdles were resting ahead. Planning is absolutely paramount in Pikmin, making this real-time map a fantastic tool to have at your side.
Outside of those features, you know exactly what to expect from Pikmin 3! There may be new Pikmin types here, but the gameplay mechanics were just the same as what the franchise brought us before. I mean that as a compliment in a huge way! Exploring the landscape, collecting treasures and taking on mammoth baddies is just as engaging as it ever was. I honestly could not wipe the smile off my face while playing.
Now I'm dying even more to get hands-on with the final game. I want to turn down the lights and let the atmosphere of Pikmin 3 soak in. You miss that key element while playing on the show floor, but you just know the game will give you goosebumps when you're focused in on the action with the simple tunes and beautiful surroundings immersing you.
We've all been waiting a very long time for Pikmin 3. From what I've played, it's without a doubt worth the wait. It's just unfortunate that we still have a number of months between us and launch!
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