At its core,Pikmin 4is a game about cooperation and working with others to overcome obstacles and challenges. That is the relationship between the player, the Pikmin, Oatchi the rescue pup, and all of the other members of the Rescue Corp. While it is most certainly possible to enjoy the game solo, having a friend to assist will always be helpful.
InPikmin 4, co-op mode takes a different form than it does inPikmin 3 Deluxe. While players can experience the entire story together, the second player’s role is different from the main adventurer. To ensure things go more smoothly, it is essential to understand justhow best to support a co-op partnerduring the journey.

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What is Co-op Mode in Pikmin 4?
Selecting co-op mode inPikmin 4can be done via the Options menu, which then makes it possible for two players to enjoy the story together. The second player will take control of the Pebble Pitcher, which can be used to throw both pebbles at enemies and items to thearmy of Pikminwhenever available. Another way to help out is by throwing pebbles at the treasure or creature that Pikmin are carrying, which increases their carrying speed for a short time.
Co-op Points and The Best Items to Give Pikmin in Co-Op Mode
Only by working together can co-op partners hope to earn co-op points.Defeating creatures, breaking walls, and transporting things are just a few of the many different ways to accumulate co-op points. With enough points, the co-op gauge displayed near the Pebble Pitcher will be filled and the second player will receive an item that they can use to help. These items include:
Item’s Function
Nectar
Giving Pikmin Nectar will enable them to bloom a flower, which makes them move faster and tougher than before. Feeding Oatchi with Nectar helps it to recover its health.
Scrummy Bones
A favorite of Oatchi, a Scrummy Bone will restore its HP, or increase its max HP up to five times if its health is already full.
Pikpik Carrots
An irresistible treat for many creatures, players can use Pikpik Carrots as bait and then paralyze enemies. The more they eat, the longer the paralyzing effect.
Bomb Rock
A powerful rock that explodes when thrown, players can use it to break down reinforced walls or inflict heavy damage on creatures.
Ice Blast
An item that freezes any and all targets within its blast zone, the Ice Blast can also be used to freeze bodies of water.
Lightning Shock
The Lightning Shock can be used to call down lightning onto creatures and briefly paralyze them with a powerful electric shock.
Although the items received for filling the co-op gauge are random, knowing when and how to use these items will make everybody a better co-op partner. As a recommendation, using Nectar to help power up Pikmin is always a smart move, while the offensive items are best left when faced with multiple enemies or a dangerous boss battle.