Pikmin 4: Mastering Aquatic Challenges for Epic Adventures!

There are various obstacles in Pikmin 4, ranging from incomplete bridges to yellow electric gates. However, the most challenging obstacle is water, as most Pikmin are unable to swim and will perish if left unattended in the water for too long. Fortunately, the playable character does not face the same fate, although their ability to survive in water is relatively ineffective without the assistance of Oatchi and the Pikmin.

Fortunately, there are multiple methods to overcome water obstacles in Pikmin 4, and most of these options become available early in the game. Some involve utilizing Pikmin types that are more adept at traversing through water, while others require players to place their space pup in a slightly uncomfortable position. Nevertheless, by the end, players will have little difficulty surviving in water.

Method 1: Ice Pikmin

Method 2: Blue Pikmin

To freeze water in the game, players can use Ice Pikmin. The number of Ice Pikmin needed depends on the size of the water body. Once the water is frozen, players can walk across it, taking along Oactchi and any other Pikmin that may be with them. Ice Pikmin can first be encountered in the Sun-Speckled Terrace area. They can be found in several Sublevels of this area, with players being able to collect at least 30 Ice Pikmin from Last-Frost Cavern, Hectic Hollows, and Aquiferous Summit. However, players cannot obtain the Ice Onion until they reach the fourth area of the game. Therefore, it is important to keep the Ice Pikmin found earlier safe until then.

While Ice Pikmin have the ability to freeze water, Blue Pikmin can effortlessly navigate through it. This proves advantageous when players require only one type of Pikmin or when retrieving items submerged in water. Additionally, it is important to note that Blue Pikmin will always choose the quickest route back to base, even if it entails swimming through water. By utilizing Blue Pikmin's strength, players can expedite the transportation of items. Although caves do not house any Blue Pikmin, players can discover a Blue Onion in the Sun-Speckled Terrace region. However, they must possess a minimum of 30 Ice Pikmin to freeze the water leading to it.

Method 3: Oatchi

When players initially attempt to have Oatchi navigate through water, he will come close to drowning. Despite its harshness, players should prioritize this experience as early as possible. Oatchi will acquire the skill of swimming two days after undergoing his initial negative encounter with water. Consequently, if players allow Oatchi to almost drown during their Day 3 expedition, they will unlock the ability to ride him through water at the commencement of Day 5. Subsequently, the adorable space pup and any accompanying Pikmin on his back will have no difficulty surviving in water. Pikmin 4 can now be accessed exclusively on the Nintendo Switch.