Today's Nintendo Direct brought lots of exciting co-op announcements such as the upcoming co-op Switch version of Vampire Survivors and the surprise Switch release of Pikmin 1 and 2. With that surprise release, all three existing Pikmin games are now available on Switch. That's as good an advertisement as any for the upcoming release of Pikmin 4, which is due out on July 21 and features 2-player local co-op.
Official description:
Guide pintsized creatures in a grand mission on a strange planet! Meet Pikmin, small, plantlike creatures you can grow, pluck, command, and overpower your enemies with! These curious helpers come in different types—fire is no sweat for Red Pikmin and the brand-new Ice Pikmin can freeze enemies and the environment. Use your Pikmin’s miniature might (and a bit of strategy) to explore this mysterious planet. You get a dog, too! Oatchi (pronounced oat-chee), resident good boy and dependable partner, can help with things like smashing obstacles and carrying Pikmin throughout your adventure. With the miniscule Pikmin and a capable canine in tow, no challenge is too big!
Dondori Battle
Pikmin 4 will offer two multiplayer modes:
Dondori Battle: Take on—or team up with—a second player to collect the most items before time runs out. Who will reign supreme?Take on—or team up with—a second player to collect the most items before time runs out. Who will reign supreme?
Co-op Mode: Get help from a second player in the Story mode! Using an on-screen pointer, your co-op buddy can throw pebbles at enemies to stun them and unleash helpful items in your inventory.
Pikmin 4 is due out exclusively on Switch on July 21 and can be preordered digitally and physically for $59.99. A demo will be released on the eShop on Wednesday, June 28. In the meantime, check out the Switch re-releases of Pikmin 1 and 2!