Nintendo has officially designated November 1st as Pikmin Day, a holiday celebrated with a surprise Nintendo Direct presentation. The special broadcast, hosted by Shigeru Miyamoto, revealed new details about upcoming Pikmin releases and updates.
Pikmin Day was established not due to any specific game release date, but rather a visual interpretation of the date. Miyamoto explained that November 1, when written as '11.1,' resembles three Pikmin standing together.
Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy
The Direct provided an update on Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy, slated for release on November 12, 2026. This version will leverage the Nintendo Switch 2's built-in microphone for commands to Oatchi, the canine companion. New challenges in the Dandori Academy mode include timed exams held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, where players can earn medals. A demo for the Switch 2 version will be available starting November 2, featuring the Sun-Speckled Terrace and two Dandori Academy stages, with save data transferable to the full game.
Pikmin Bloom Update
Updates are also coming to the augmented-reality mobile game Pikmin Bloom. A winter update will introduce Secret Caves, a new mechanic focused on combat and exploration. Players will need to find cave maps, often found on Postcards, to access these events. Inside the caves, players will send their Pikmin to battle creatures and search for treasures, with examples shown including a rubber duck, a sword, a cookie, and a chef hat. Strategic command during battles, including attacking and retreating, will be key to success. Pikmin 4's Dandori Academy challenges will also offer players a way to collect cave maps.