The recently released Switch version of Pikmin 2 has removed the branded names from the game, effectively eliminating the product placement that was originally included. For those unfamiliar, the Pikmin games revolve around a group of explorers searching for treasure on a mysterious planet that strongly resembles Earth.
In Pikmin 2, players assume the roles of Captain Olimar and his partner Louie as they collect "treasure" in the form of various everyday items found in the real world. This includes things like batteries from Duracell, Skippy Peanut Butter, Yoo-Hoo, A&W Root Beer bottle caps, and many others. Although product placement in video games is generally not well-received, it added to the charm of Pikmin 2 for many players. Unfortunately, all of these branded references have been omitted from the Switch version, disappointing those who enjoyed the product placement in the original game.
Nintendo has recently surprised fans by releasing Switch ports of both Pikmin and Pikmin 2. While the games remain largely the same as fans remember, the graphics have been enhanced with HD resolution, making them appear sharper on the Switch and newer televisions. However, it should be noted that all the brand names and product placements from Pikmin 2 have been replaced with generic objects. This decision may disappoint purists seeking an authentic experience on the Switch, but for others, the opportunity to play this critically-acclaimed game on a modern platform will be greatly appreciated.
It is worth mentioning that this is not the first time Pikmin 2 has been ported to another console. In 2009, a Wii version of Pikmin 2 was released in most regions, albeit with North American fans having to wait until 2012 to get their hands on it. The Wii version of Pikmin 2 remained largely unchanged, but it introduced motion controls to the gameplay. Speculation suggests that the delay in releasing the North American version may have been due to Nintendo needing to secure licensing rights for the brand name products, but this has not been confirmed.
Nintendo likely wants to avoid the hassle of re-licensing all the brand name products for another Pikmin 2 port. This may indicate that they want to prevent similar issues in the future, making it intriguing to see if Pikmin 4 will feature any brand names of its own.
Based on the trailers for Pikmin 4 that have been released, we can see that the game will include Nintendo products as "treasure" items for players to collect, such as a Game Boy Advance console. Fans of the Pikmin franchise will discover more about what the game offers when it is released on July 21.
Pikmin 2 is available on the GameCube, Wii, and Switch.
