Pikmin 4 – Tips for Exploring Caves in Style

There’s no other series quite like Pikmin. The series mix of strategy, time management, and exploration can be a bit tough to get your head around, and Pikmin 4 adds another level of challenge by reintroducing caves into the mix. Caves are quite different from the rest of the game, with their own unique set of rules. Time limits are largely out the window, but you’re not able to spawn your own Pikmin in these multi-level dungeon-like challenges. Caves can be a bit intimidating at first, but we’ve got some pointers for those afraid of the dark. Here are some spelunking tips…

Take note of the recommended Pikmin types… but don’t get hung up on them

Before you enter a cave, the game will always recommend three types of Pikmin to take with you. These recommendations are usually worth paying attention to, but don’t get too hung up on them. If the game recommends one of the elemental Pikmin (red, yellow, blue, ice) then yes, definitely take that advice. That’s a hint the challenges you’re going to face are going to be fiery, icy, ect. Beyond that though, follow your heart. For instance, I found the game often recommended Flying Pikmin, even though I don’t really like using them. Using a type of Pikmin you like and are comfortable with is often the best bet.

Check your map

Each time you drop down to a new sublevel, pop open your map. While not all the details and markers will be filled in yet, the general layout of the sublevel will provide plenty of clues about what it’s all about and what you ought to be doing.

Don’t divide your forces

So, when exploring regular surface maps, it’s generally a good idea to divide and conquer so you can maximize your limited time. That’s not really an issue in caves. Not only is time essentially unlimited in caves, but each individual sublevel usually isn’t that large or complicated. Your main goal in a cave is to not loose too many Pikmin and given caves have a greater concentration of enemies and traps, it’s best not to split up too much. Granted, there are times when you need to divide your squad to solve puzzles and there’s nothing wrong with it once you’ve cleared all threats and are just toting back treasures, but when you first get to a sublevel, stick together.

Don’t be afraid to back out and resupply

While caves may feel imposing, don’t worry, Pikmin 4 isn’t a hardcore dungeon hack or roguelike. You can back out of a cave whenever you want and return later to any sublevel you’ve previously reached. So, if you’re running low on Pikmin, want to change up the makeup of your squad, or need to prepare for a big challenging battle, don’t hesitate to back out of the cave. You can then jump back in with a fresh squad, additional items, ect.

Watch out for those damn edges

Some caves will task you with exploring various surfaces and platforms floating over a bottomless void, and yes, if your Pikmin go over they edge, they’re lost. Honestly, this was probably the #1 thing that killed off my Pikmin while exploring caves. Be careful where you’re throwing your Pikmin, and when facing off against an enemy that can launch you and your squad, make sure you have a lot of room and your back isn’t toward the edge.

Rewind time if you really mess up

But sometimes you screw up. You accidentally throw blue Pikmin at a fire enemy and they get roasted, or half your squad gets knocked off an edge. Well, Pikmin 4 has a hand-dandy time rewind feature that can allows you to reverse any mistake. This works particularly well in caves, as the game usually saves a time-rewind checkpoint whenever you start a new sublevel. It may kind of feel like cheating, but don’t worry, nobody has to know.

And there you are! A few tips that should keep you from getting too lost underground.

Pikmin 4 is available now on Nintendo Switch. You can check out Wccftech’s Pikmin 4 guides here and our full review here.