Nintendo recently unveiled a new version of its animated short film “Close to You.” This fresh take features a toddler’s first steps, now accompanied by a lively group of Pikmin that were previously hidden.
In this updated version, viewers can see and hear the Pikmin, adding an engaging layer to the toddler’s interactions. It’s a clever move by Nintendo that encourages fans to watch again and discover the previously unseen creatures that playfully navigate the scene.
Right now, you can catch this new Pikmin-filled animation exclusively on Nintendo Today, the company’s smartphone app. Expect a wider release soon. You can still find the original version of the film without the visible Pikmin below.
Just yesterday, IGN hinted that this could be a teaser for a new Pikmin game. They noted that the animation used musical cues from the Pikmin series, and household items moved in ways reminiscent of how Pikmin collect objects in past games.
So, what does this animation hint at? Nintendo has previously released Pikmin short films, but fans are eager for more. There are strong speculations about a new Pikmin game coming for the Switch 2 or even an extended version of 2023’s Pikmin 4.
The Pikmin series is set in a world similar to ours, with the tiny creatures only visible to those who look closely. This new short confirms that they can remain hidden—even when they’re right in front of us—a fun twist for fans.
Pikmin 4 brought the adventure inside a human home for the first time, and the animation shows more possibilities of intertwining the Pikmin’s game universe with human environments. Despite Pikmin 4’s success, it hasn’t received downloadable content. Could it get a re-release for the Switch 2? Only time will tell, but for now, we’re glad to dive into this animated short to decode the next steps for the beloved franchise.
A recent survey by Statista reveals that interest in Pikmin games has significantly increased, with 65% of respondents expressing excitement for any new content related to the series. This enthusiastic response highlights the importance of the franchise in Nintendo’s lineup.
In the world of video games, fan theories and speculation often lead to heightened anticipation. The Pikmin community is actively discussing these hints on social media, with many sharing their hopes for future games.
For further insights, you can check out Nintendo’s official announcements and updates here.