Nintendo Celebrates First Annual Pikmin Day with New Game and App Updates

Tendela Briefing · 31 Oct 2026 · 18:01 UTC

Image: Happy Pikmin Day Eve · Source

Nintendo marks the inaugural Pikmin Day on November 1st with news on Pikmin 4 for Switch 2, mobile app enhancements, and a new animated shorts series.

Nintendo has announced the establishment of November 1st as the first annual Pikmin Day, celebrating its beloved franchise with several new developments. During a short event called the Pikmin Day Direct, famed game designer Shigeru Miyamoto revealed updates across multiple Pikmin platforms.

The headline news is regarding Pikmin 4, which is in development for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Miyamoto shared that the game will feature voice command capabilities using the console's built-in microphone; players will be able to give instructions to Oatchi, the companion space dog. This inclusion aims to add a new layer of interaction and immersion.

Pikmin 4 will also introduce a new Dandori Academy mode. This mode comprises specific gameplay challenges designed to test players’ strategic skills. In conjunction with this, Nintendo plans to run limited testing sessions over the Pikmin Day weekend (Friday through Sunday). These tests will feature leaderboards allowing players to compare their performances globally, fostering a competitive community environment.

In addition to the console game, there is news for mobile gamers as well. The Pikmin Bloom app is receiving an update that adds a feature called Secret Caves. Players will be able to explore these cave environments, battle enemies, and win in-game treasures, enhancing the app’s adventure elements.

Expanding Pikmin’s presence beyond games, Nintendo also introduced Hello! Pikmin, a new series of animated shorts. The initial episode was premiered live during the event. Further episodes are scheduled, with a second episode debuting on the official Pikmin Day, and a third to follow later in November. Starting December, the series plans to release one short per month. This new series builds on the success of last year’s Pikmin animation, Close to You, indicating Nintendo’s growing investment in the franchise’s multimedia storytelling.

Overall, Nintendo’s announcements for Pikmin Day demonstrate a comprehensive effort to engage fans across platforms and media, setting a foundation for the franchise’s future with the Switch 2 and beyond.