So, about six months ago I played and finished Pikmin (NPC Wii) for the first time ever. Amazing game, phenomenal even with the time pressure. Such a beautiful style of game and even in a world with two sequels (!!) it still feels fresh in amongst today's environment.
I finished Pikmin 3 within the first two weeks since it came out here, loved it and the multi-tasking aspect of the game is genius in its implementation and how it changes the balance of the daily duties.
"So, I suppose I should try Pikmin 2" was what I said after finishing Pikmin 3, and currently I am about 15 hours into it. Got all the treasure in the first two worlds, currently delving into the underground bits in the third level, and have already 'paid off the debt'.
Thoroughly enjoying Pikmin 2 - but the thing that stands out to me is that all 3 games feel unique and relevant on their own. None of them have been made redundant by the existence of a successor. Pikmin still feels new and has a wonderful sense of discovery after playing Pikmin 2. Pikmin 2 has a great sense of risk/reward and caution in the underground caves, as well as a nice way to send your two units across the map working on two independent objectives.
In comparison, Pikmin 3 is like a veritable orchestra, with you as the conductor and able to do all the things Pikmin 1 and 2 let you, only with a lot more control over how to plan the day.
It's very rare for me to play a series where it retains relevant at every entry, despite the arrival of a new and improved follow up. Well worth playing all of them I say.
And as if it needs stating: Louie is the star of the show.