Nintendo has unveiled a reimagined version of its mysterious animated short film “Close to You”—this time featuring a lively group of Pikmin accompanying the toddler protagonist. While the footage is identical to yesterday’s release, eagle-eyed viewers will spot and hear Pikmin that were previously invisible, adding fresh layers of detail for fans on a second viewing.
Currently, this new Pikmin-filled cut is exclusive to the Nintendo Today smartphone app, with a broader rollout expected soon. The original version—with hidden Pikmin—remains accessible for comparison.
Hidden Clues and Pikmin Teasers
Speculation has intensified since IGN noted yesterday that “Close to You” includes musical cues and movement patterns closely tied to the Pikmin franchise. The animation’s subtle household object choreography recalls classic Pikmin gameplay, where these creatures haul everyday items across Earth’s landscapes.
What Is Nintendo Hinting At?
Nintendo has released Pikmin-themed shorts before, but this deliberate reveal may hint at more than just animation nostalgia. Fan theories suggest two exciting possibilities:
- An entirely new Pikmin game for the rumored Switch 2 console.
- An expanded Switch 2 re-release of Pikmin 4, originally launched in 2023 and currently without downloadable
content updates.
The series’ long-standing lore proposes Pikmin exist just out of human sight. With this short, Nintendo confirms that Pikmin are truly invisible to us—even when directly present—a creative twist cultivated over two decades.
Pikmin 4’s Legacy and Future Possibilities
Pikmin 4 broke ground by bringing players inside a human home for the first time, and “Close to You” playfully builds on this concept. It leaves fans wondering: Will future Pikmin adventures co-star humans and their living spaces? With Pikmin 4 surpassing franchise sales records (especially in Japan), anticipation for new content remains sky-high.
Though Pikmin 4 received no DLC, its success makes it a prime candidate for expansion or a polished Switch 2 port. For now, Nintendo’s creative animation fuels speculation and celebrates the delightfully hidden world of Pikmin—inviting viewers to look closer, and to wonder what’s next for the iconic series.
