Interview with Developers of Pikmin Bloom: Adding New Features and Fostering Real-Life Connections

While the Pikmin series may not have achieved the commercial success it deserves, Nintendo remains dedicated to nurturing these lovable plant creatures. The recently released Pikmin 4 for the Nintendo Switch has broken sales records in Japan, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. Additionally, the mainline Pikmin series, along with the spinoff title Hey! Pikmin, is now available on the console. The Pikmin have even found their way into Super Nintendo World, a Mario-centric theme park. In 2021, the creators of Pokémon GO brought the Pikmin to mobile with Pikmin Bloom. However, some experienced fans felt that this spinoff lacked the gameplay they desired. Nevertheless, many individuals, including casual gamers, have embraced the unique concept of Pikmin Bloom.

New Features in Pikmin Bloom

Niantic, the studio behind Pikmin Bloom, has been continuously adding new features since its launch in 2021. One notable addition is the Weekly Challenge, which allows players to walk alongside their friends, even if they are far away, to achieve a common goal over the course of a week. Another feature is the Flower Planting Challenge, where players can plant flowers together with their friends. The Mushroom Challenge has also undergone changes, enabling players to send a group of Pikmin to destroy mushrooms. The latest addition is the Event Challenge, which offers special Decor Pikmin each month. For example, the month of June featured a Fingerboard Decor Pikmin. Playing Pikmin Bloom offers a continual gamification cycle, rewarding players as they progress.

Gamification and Collectible Decor Pikmin

Similar to the request system in Pokémon GO, Pikmin Bloom includes lightweight tasks that players can complete throughout the day. By collecting rewards, players have the chance to receive extra seedlings for their core Pikmin. Currently, there are over 300 types of Decor Pikmin in the game, each tied to specific real-world locations. For instance, players can encounter Decor Pikmin associated with corner shops, barbershops, pharmacies, or even various weather conditions. Recently, Niantic introduced the Donut Decor Pikmin, inspired by a sweet shop. The frequency of encountering Decor Pikmin is higher when players are in the vicinity of flowers they have planted. One of the standout aspects of Pikmin Bloom is its minimal gaming focus, with the emphasis placed on encouraging players to go outside and walk.

The Future of Pikmin Bloom

While the developers couldn’t provide specific details about upcoming features, they expressed their commitment to enhancing connections among players. Niantic plans to release more social features to promote interaction and community engagement within Pikmin Bloom. The team recently organized the first-ever real-world Pikmin Bloom Tour in Sapporo, Japan, and hopes to hold similar events in the United States and other countries. The intention is to foster connections among players even if they are not physically present together.

Adding New Types of Pikmin and Considering Bulborbs

When asked about the possibility of introducing new types of Pikmin in Pikmin Bloom, the developers kept the details under wraps. However, they did mention that the game aims to provide a more peaceful experience compared to the intense nature of the original Pikmin series. As for incorporating Bulborbs into the game, while they are immensely popular, the developers acknowledged that the topic requires careful consideration. The main series and Pikmin 4 have their own universe, and Pikmin Bloom respects that differentiation while using the Pikmin intellectual property.

Proud Elements of Pikmin Bloom

One of the standout features of Pikmin Bloom, according to the developers, is its hands-free experience. The game’s accessibility allows players of all ages, including individuals who have never played games before, to participate. Players can share their experiences of finding different Decor Pikmin with friends and family, fostering a sense of connection in their day-to-day lives. The developers take pride in the refreshing and enjoyable nature of Pikmin Bloom.