Pikmin 3: How to Unlock Side Stories

As part of the new content on offer in Pikmin 3 Deluxe Edition on Nintendo Switch, player will be able to play through Side Stories. These Side Stories are basically additional, new prologue and epilogue stories starring Olimar and Louie from Pikmin and Pikmin 2 fame. These help to further flesh out the story in Pikmin 3 and just add a bit of longevity to the experience. In this guide, we’ll talk you through how to unlock side stories in Pikmin 3.

Unlocking Side Stories in Pikmin 3 Deluxe Edition

To unlock side stories, you’ll simply need to progress through the main story missions in the game. Specifically, you’ll need to first find Charlie in the Distant Tundra area and defeat the Vehemoth Phosbat boss. This is all part of the story, so you can’t miss unlocking side stories.

From then, you can play through your side story missions you’ve unlocked from the ship. Simply select the ‘Side Stories’ option and then select the mission you want to play through. In the bottom right-hand corner of this screen, you’ll also find the option to play in either solo or co-op with a friend. Pick whichever and then press A to confirm to start the mission.

There are two missions within Pikmin 3’s side stories mode. The first one is called Olimar’s Assignment and has Olimar and Louie exploring together. The other side mission is locked until you clear the story mode, and we won’t share the details about that so you can enjoy uncovering it for yourself.

The good news is that these Side Stories missions can be played in both single-player and co-op.

Why Are Olimar and Louie on the Pikmin 3 Planet?

You may be wondering exactly how Olimar and Louie have ended up on the same planet as Alph, Brittany and Charlie, given this wasn’t explained in the original game.

According to Nintendo, Olimar’s employer was in debt again, and so sent the pair out to the Pikmin 3 planet to try and source some valuable materials all over again.

That’s everything you need to know about unlocking side stories in Pikmin 3 Deluxe Edition. For more tips, tricks, and guides, search for Twinfinite or check out more of our coverage on the game below.