If modders can deliver HD textures and 60fps, why can’t Nintendo?
This package of Pikmin games does more or less exactly what it says on the tin.
So how does Pikmin 1 andPikmin 2on Switch ultimately stack up to the 2001 and 2004 GameCube originals?
And how does performance hold up - bearing in mind this appears to partly run through emulation on Switch?
Perhaps the biggest challenge faced by the Pikmin series is just explaining what the game actually is.
At its core, Pikmin is a real time strategy game, mixed with puzzle-solving elements.
You take charge of Captain Olimar, whose plane crash lands on a mysterious planet.
To collect all the missing parts of his ship by commanding up to a hundred tiny ant-like creatures.
You direct a growing army towards resources: fruit, scrap salvage, or even larger insects to attack.
The more Pikmin you have, the better.
It’s an addictive formula.
Even today it’s an utterly unique, original creation - and sorely unappreciated at release I think.
So how exactly have Pikmin 1 and 2 been translated to Switch?
It’s the same technology at its core.
The most obvious upgrade is the boost to a native 1920x1080 image on Switch.
Expect some rough edges and some pixel shimmer, though it’s a decent, crisp looking image overall.
The textures have not changed, however.
For the most part though, most textures stay in place from 20 years ago.
One twist is the treatment of Pikmin’s pre-rendered cutscenes.
The upside is it is a perfect lock.
Even with 100 Pikmin doing your bidding it barely misses a frame at 30fps.
The verdict here boils down to the value proposition Nintendo is making for both games.
It’s just the matter of the asking price.
As it stands, you get the authentic 30fps experience with GameCube era textures.
