That Pikmin 3 manages to pack in so much RTS complexity into such an adorable, approachable package is a true feat, and something Nintendo still excel at. There are moments in Pikmin 3 that are extremely funny (a familiar household object abruptly puked up by a monster in its death throes is a stand-out scene), moments of unbearable tension (getting a vital piece of fruit back to the ship before sundown always gets the pulse going), and occasional moments of genuine wonder.
Unlike, say, a major new Zelda game, Pikmin 3 may not be the title that will endear the Wii U to the masses, but it is undoubtedly the most engrossing, challenging and adorable system exclusive yet released for the console. Ultimately, Pikmin 3 is that rarest of things: a game with depth and complexity, but also colour, humour, and Nintendo's seemingly infallible lightness of touch.