Welcome to our comprehensive Pikmin 3 Deluxe Walkthrough, your ultimate guide to mastering every nook and cranny of this enchanting adventure! Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a new captain setting forth into Pikmin territory, we’ve got you covered. Dive into detailed strategies and expert tips as we navigate through essential subtopics including Starting Your Expedition, uncovering Key Locations and Challenges, mastering the art of Using Pikmin Types Effectively, devising Strategies for Boss Battles, and Unlocking Post-Game Content. Gear up, gather your Pikmin, and let’s conquer the world of Pikmin 3 Deluxe together!

Starting Your Expedition#

Welcome to Pikmin 3 Deluxe! Your adventure begins with a crash landing on a mysterious, lush planet filled with curious creatures and puzzling landscapes. Before diving into the heart of the game, let’s set you up for a successful expedition. Here’s everything you need to know about getting started.

Meet the Crew#

Your journey kicks off with three main characters: Alph, Brittany, and Charlie. Here’s a quick rundown of each:

• Alph: The brains behind the operation. This little engineer is great with gadgets and will often lead your team in solving mechanical puzzles.
• Brittany: She’s the botanist who has a knack for understanding the planet’s flora. Her knowledge can help you identify which Pikmin to use for various tasks.
• Charlie: The captain and muscle of the team. Charlie is upfront in battles and can direct Pikmin with authority.

Understanding their unique abilities can give you an edge when exploring the planet.

Finding Your First Pikmin#

The Pikmin are your tiny, colorful helpers who will do most of the heavy lifting (literally and figuratively). The first Pikmin you’ll encounter are the Red Pikmin. Here’s why they’re handy:

• Fire-resistant: They can walk through fire without getting hurt.
• Strong: Red Pikmin are good in battle and can carry heavy objects.

To find them, follow the path that the game sets for you. Don’t worry—you’ll quickly run into an Onion (a Pikmin ship) that can sprout these tiny critters.

Learning the Controls#

Pikmin 3 Deluxe comes with intuitive controls, but it helps to get the hang of them early on:

• Whistle: Pressing ‘B’ lets you gather Pikmin around you.
• Throw: Aim with the right stick and press ‘A’ to throw Pikmin at targets.
• Squad Formation: Holding the ‘ZL’ button will make Pikmin march in formation behind you.
• Dismiss: Press ‘Y’ to dismiss Pikmin, allowing them to perform tasks independently.

Spend some time throwing Pikmin at tiny objects and enemies around you to get comfortable with these controls.

Scouting the Area#

Stay aware of your surroundings. Use the map to get a sense of where you are and what’s nearby. The game encourages exploration, so don’t be afraid to wander a bit and discover new areas. Keep an eye out for:

• Pellets and Fruits: These can be collected to produce more Pikmin and provide juice for your crew.
• Enemies: Some creatures are docile, but others will attack your Pikmin. Learn their patterns and weaknesses.
• Obstacles: Some require specific Pikmin types to pass. Initially, focus on what you can overcome with Red Pikmin.

Time Management#

Time is a crucial element in Pikmin 3 Deluxe. Each day corresponds to a limited amount of real-world time. Manage your tasks efficiently by planning your day’s activities carefully. Prioritize essential objectives over minor tasks:

• Collect resources: Grab as many fruits and pellets as possible.
• Build bridges and destroy barriers: These actions will open up new areas for future exploration.
• Defeat enemies: Clear the path for safer travel.

When the sun starts to set, make sure to call back all your Pikmin before heading to your ship. Any Pikmin left behind at night will be lost to the planet’s nocturnal dangers.

Saving Your Progress#

Remember to save often. The game auto-saves at the end of each day, but it doesn’t hurt to manually save your progress as a backup. You can also replay specific days if you feel you could’ve done better or missed something important.

By now, you should have a strong foundation to begin your Pikmin 3 Deluxe adventure. Keep your Pikmin safe, tackle challenges head-on, and most importantly, have fun! Happy exploring!

Key Locations and Challenges#

Pikmin 3 Deluxe has a bunch of unique areas to explore, each with its own set of puzzles, creatures, and challenges. Here’s a rundown of the key locations and what you can expect to face in each one.

Garden of Hope#

The Garden of Hope is the first major area you’ll explore after getting your bearings. Here’s what you need to look out for:

• Bulborbs and Bugs: The main enemies here are Red Bulborbs and various bugs. Learn the basics of Pikmin combat by taking these guys down.
• Crystals and Bridges: You’ll need to use Rock Pikmin to smash crystals and build bridges with the help of your Pikmin squad.
  • Tip: Always bring a mix of Pikmin types to handle different obstacles. Don’t rely solely on one type!

Distant Tundra#

The Distant Tundra introduces icy landscapes and tougher enemies.

• Electrified Gates: Use Yellow Pikmin to dismantle electrical obstacles safely.
• Fiery Challenges: Fire hazards are everywhere, so bring Red Pikmin who are immune to fire.
  • Tip: Look for ways to turn off hazards instead of just avoiding them. It can make moving around much easier!

Tropical Wilds#

A sunnier locale, the Tropical Wilds swaps ice for water.

• Water Hazards: Blue Pikmin are crucial here as they can swim and aren’t affected by water-based challenges.
• Enemy Variety: Expect a diverse set of enemies, including flying creatures and water-dwelling foes.
  • Tip: Use Winged Pikmin to get an aerial view and a strategic advantage over larger enemies.

Twilight River#

Twilight River is filled with flowing water, lily pads, and winged creatures.

• Winged Pikmin: These are essential for this area. Use them to navigate lily pad pathways and reach higher areas.
• New Puzzles: Expect complex puzzles that require precise timing and strategic Pikmin deployment.
  • Tip: Don’t rush through this area. Take your time to solve puzzles and find hidden pathways.

Formidable Oak#

The final area, Formidable Oak, is packed with challenges that test everything you’ve learned.

• Maze-like Layout: It’s a labyrinth, so pay attention to your map and look for shortcuts.
• Dangerous Enemies: Armored Mawdad and the Quaggled Mireclops will be some of your toughest battles.
  • Tip: Always have a balanced Pikmin army; you’ll need each type’s unique abilities to progress.

General Tips for All Locations#

• Pikmin Management: Always balance Pikmin types based on the area’s challenges.
• Daylight Hours: Remember, you only have until sundown! Plan your days to maximize productivity.
• Fruit Collection: Always be on the lookout for fruit. It keeps your team powered up and extends your in-game time.

By understanding the specific challenges and mastering strategies for each area, you’ll make the most out of your Pikmin and conquer the obstacles in no time. Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the colorful and challenging world of Pikmin 3 Deluxe!

Using Pikmin Types Effectively#

In Pikmin 3 Deluxe, each type of Pikmin has its own unique abilities and strengths. Knowing when and how to use each type can make a big difference in both exploring the planet and battling enemies. Let’s break down what each type of Pikmin can do and give you some tips for using them effectively.

Red Pikmin#

Strengths#

• Immune to fire
• Stronger in combat

Uses#

• Red Pikmin are your go-to fighters. Anytime you face an enemy, you’ll want these fierce little guys leading the charge.
• Since they don’t get hurt by fire, send them to deal with any fire hazards or enemies that spit fire.

Tips#

• Use Red Pikmin first in battles to reduce the enemy health. They can take more damage, which helps keep your other Pikmin safer.
• Don’t hesitate to use them for general tasks like carrying items if no fire or combat is involved – their extra strength can speed things up.

Yellow Pikmin#

Strengths#

• Immune to electricity
• High throw range

Uses#

• Perfect for handling electrical barriers and enemies that use electricity.
• Their high throw range lets you reach elevated areas that other Pikmin can’t get to.

Tips#

• Use Yellow Pikmin to access high places; their ability to throw farther makes them ideal for grabbing hard-to-reach items.
• Keep a squad of Yellow Pikmin handy when exploring new areas, especially if you’re not sure what’s ahead. Their versatility can save you in a pinch.

Blue Pikmin#

Strengths#

• Can swim and breathe underwater

Uses#

• Essential for underwater exploration and tasks requiring prolonged time in water.
• Great for breaking underwater objects and fighting water-based enemies.

Tips#

• Use Blue Pikmin to explore watery areas thoroughly. They can access paths and treasures the other Pikmin can’t.
• Make sure you have a good number of Blue Pikmin when heading to regions with lots of water, as their ability to move freely in water will be crucial.

Rock Pikmin#

Strengths#

• High impact damage
• Immune to being crushed

Uses#

• Smashing through crystal barriers and obstacles.
• Useful for taking on enemies with hard shells or those that can crush Pikmin.

Tips#

• When you spot crystal barriers or crystalline objects, switch to Rock Pikmin to break them up quickly.
• Rock Pikmin can also be thrown at enemies to deal heavy impact damage and stun them, making battles much easier.

Winged Pikmin#

Strengths#

• Can fly over obstacles
• Can carry items through the air

Uses#

• Useful for navigating obstacles and accessing areas unreachable for grounded Pikmin.
• Great for moving items and enemies directly, avoiding ground-based hazards.

Tips#

• Keep Winged Pikmin in mind for puzzles and obstacles requiring elevation; they can bypass a lot of ground-based challenges.
• Use them to carry items over water or gaps, which keeps your treasures safe from most hazards.

Purple and White Pikmin (Mission Mode/Side Stories)#

Purple Pikmin#

• Extra strong and heavy
• Can carry heavier loads

White Pikmin#

• Immune to poison
• Can detect buried items
• Poisonous to enemies that eat them

Uses#

• These Pikmin are found mostly in Mission Mode or side stories. Purple Pikmin are ideal for lifting and delivering heavy objects quickly, while White Pikmin should be used for poison-related tasks and finding hidden treasures underground.

Tips#

• Use Purple Pikmin to haul back treasures with higher efficiency due to their strength.
• Deploy White Pikmin for specific tasks involving poison or for detecting buried treasure that other Pikmin types might miss.

Strategy Tips#

1. Mix Your Squad: Always have a balanced team with multiple Pikmin types. This lets you adapt to different situations quickly.
2. Scout the Area: Before rushing in, take a moment to explore and understand the environment. Knowing what hazards and enemies are present helps you decide which Pikmin to use.
3. Switch Tactics on the Fly: Don’t be afraid to switch between Pikmin types during missions. If you encounter a situation better suited for another type, regroup and adjust.
4. Use Pikmin Abilities Wisely: Sending the right Pikmin for the job not only keeps them safe but also speeds up your progress. Always think about the best Pikmin for each task.

Mastering the use of each Pikmin type ensures you can handle any challenge Pikmin 3 Deluxe throws your way. Happy exploring and good luck commanding your Pikmin army!

Strategies for Boss Battles#

Facing off against the big bad bosses in Pikmin 3 Deluxe can be super intimidating, but don’t panic! With the right strategy and a little bit of patience, you’ll have these titanic terrors toppling in no time. Here are some tips and tricks to help you conquer each one and come out victorious.

1. Stock Up on Pikmin#

Before diving headfirst into a boss fight, make sure you have a healthy supply of Pikmin. Having a full squad of 100 Pikmin is ideal. Depending on the boss, you might need specific types:

• Red Pikmin: Resistant to fire
• Yellow Pikmin: Resistant to electricity and can be thrown higher
• Blue Pikmin: Can go into water
• Rock Pikmin: Great for smashing hard shells
• Winged Pikmin: Good for aerial or hard-to-reach spots

2. Know Your Enemy#

Each boss has unique patterns and weak points. Spend a bit of time observing their movements and attacks. This will help you avoid damage and identify opportunities to strike.

• Armored Mawdad: Focus on its underside and claws. Use Rock Pikmin to shatter its hard shell.
• Vehemoth Phosbat: Make use of the blue mushrooms to light up the area, exposing its weak spots.
• Scornet Maestro: Use Winged Pikmin to navigate its aerial attacks and disrupt the formation of Scornets.

3. Utilize the Map#

The game’s map is your best friend. Use it to keep track of your Pikmin and get a better sense of the battlefield. Boss arenas can be large and it’s easy to get separated from your Pikmin. Stay organized by constantly checking the map.

4. Multitask with Team Members#

Switch between Alph, Brittany, and Charlie to keep the pressure on the boss while also managing Pikmin. You can have one captain lead attacks while another gathers more Pikmin or handles other tasks in the area.

5. Dodge and Weave#

Bosses have powerful attacks that can quickly decimate your Pikmin army. Learn the tells of their attacks so you can dodge effectively. For example, the Quaggled Mireclops will strain before stomping – that’s your cue to move your Pikmin out of harm’s way.

6. Focus on the Weak Spots#

Bosses typically have one or several weak spots. Direct your Pikmin to these areas for maximum damage. Use targeted throws (hold down the button) to ensure your Pikmin hit the right spot.

7. Manage Your Pikmin Types#

Don’t throw all your Pikmin mindlessly. Keep different types of Pikmin for different tasks. For instance, use Rock Pikmin to break armor and then switch to Red Pikmin for the actual damage dealing once the armor is off.

8. Utilize the Environment#

Look out for environmental features that can help you. Sometimes there are things like bomb rocks or water geysers that can aid you in the fight. For example, during the Plasm Wraith battle, use the puddles of water to protect your Pikmin from its corrosive body.

9. Stay Calm and Retry#

Don’t worry if you don’t always win on the first try. Boss battles can be hectic and losing Pikmin can be frustrating. If things go south, it’s okay to restart the day. Use what you learned from previous attempts to improve your strategy.

10. Pick Up the Spoils#

After beating a boss, don’t forget to collect the treasures and remains. They provide valuable resources and can help you grow your Pikmin army for future fights.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to take on the fearsome bosses in Pikmin 3 Deluxe. Plan wisely, stay calm, and lead your Pikmin to victory! Happy adventuring!

Unlocking Post-Game Content#

So, you’ve just finished the main story of Pikmin 3 Deluxe. Congrats! But wait, there’s more! This game has some juicy post-game content that you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re a completionist or just looking for more Pikmin fun, here’s how to unlock and get through the extra goodies.

Mission Mode#

The main chunk of post-game content comes in the form of Mission Mode. After you complete the story, you’ll notice several missions become available. These missions are categorized into three types:

1. Collect Treasure! – Gather as much treasure as you can before time runs out.
2. Battle Enemies! – Defeat the enemies in the area as quickly as possible.
3. Defeat Bosses! – Take on bosses you encountered during the main game, but with a twist.

To unlock all missions, you need to collect specific fruits and treasures during your story playthrough. Here are some tips:

• Explore Thoroughly: Don’t leave any stone unturned. Sometimes, those hidden nooks contain the treasures you need.
• Replay Levels: You can always go back to previous days to snag any items you missed.

Side Stories#

In addition to Mission Mode, there’s another bit of post-game content called Side Stories featuring Olimar and Louie. These are short campaigns that give more background and fill in the gaps in the main story.

To unlock Side Stories:

1. Complete the Story Mode: Finish the game to open up these missions.
2. Progress through the missions: As you conquer each segment, more will unlock.

Badge Challenges#

Pikmin 3 Deluxe introduces an awarding system called Badges. After finishing the story, aim to collect these shiny accolades. They can be earned by achieving specific milestones such as:

• Completing Mission Mode Levels: Try to get platinum rankings in all mission levels.
• Finishing Side Stories: Successfully getting through Olimar and Louie’s additional stories will earn you badges.
• Exploring Thoroughly: Completing certain in-game tasks or discovering hidden items also grants badges.

Tips for Success#

Here are some tips to help you get through post-game content:

• Time Management: Many missions are on a timer, so plan your routes in advance.
• Pikmin Efficiency: Use the right Pikmin for the job. Yellow Pikmin are great for reaching high places, while Rock Pikmin can break hard obstacles.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be afraid to replay missions to get better scores. Each attempt helps you learn the layout and improve efficiency.

Final Thoughts#

The fun doesn’t stop when the credits roll in Pikmin 3 Deluxe. With Mission Mode and Side Stories, there’s still a lot of content to unearth. So grab your Pikmin and dive back in to discover all the treasures and take down those pesky enemies one more time!

Happy exploring!