Miyamoto Proclaims November 1 as Pikmin Day Amid Switch 2 Updates

Key points

• Miyamoto established November 1 as Pikmin Day, citing the visual resemblance of three Pikmin to the date 11.1.
• Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy releases on November 12, 2026.
• The Switch 2 version allows players to use the console's microphone to issue voice commands to Oatchi.
• Dandori Academy is a timed mode where players practice during the week and submit scores on weekends.
• Pikmin Bloom will introduce Secret Caves, allowing players to send squads underground for treasure and battles.
• A free demo for the Switch 2 edition, including Dandori Academy levels, is available from November 2.

Background

This announcement follows recent cultural recognition for Miyamoto, who became the first video game developer to receive Japan's Order of Culture in 2026. The timing of the Pikmin Day declaration coincides with the upcoming launch of the Switch 2 edition of Pikmin 4, which was originally released on the original Switch in July 2023. The original Pikmin game debuted in the fall of 2001, establishing the seasonal connection Miyamoto referenced.

How outlets are covering it

Kotaku emphasized the whimsical nature of the announcement, noting the conflict with the Day of the Dead and the lack of new game reveals. Game Informer focused on the practical details, such as the demo availability on November 2 and the absence of a port for Hey! Pikmin. The Verge highlighted the new Hello! Pikmin short series and the monthly release schedule starting in December. Pikmin Bloom's official site provided specific mechanics for the new Secret Caves, detailing how players can earn Cave Maps through postcards or by playing the Switch 2 edition of Pikmin 4.

Why it matters

The declaration of Pikmin Day solidifies the franchise's seasonal relevance and drives engagement ahead of the Switch 2 launch. The integration of voice commands and cross-platform rewards between Pikmin 4 and Pikmin Bloom demonstrates Nintendo's strategy to unify its mobile and console ecosystems. The new animated shorts aim to expand the brand's presence beyond traditional gaming audiences.

What to watch

Players can access the Pikmin 4 demo on November 2. The full Switch 2 edition launches on November 12. The first Hello! Pikmin short airs on November 1, with subsequent episodes releasing monthly. Secret Caves for Pikmin Bloom are expected to arrive later in 2026.