Pikmin 4 is on course ෴to hit Nintendo Switch consoles on July 21 – but if you can't wait till then, why not take its for a spin right now? 

The fourth evolution of Nintendo's long-serving real-time strategy series is as endearing as ever, and is the perfect game for relaxing, soaking up its gorgeous world, and exploring at your own pace. There's challenge there for those whoꦜ dare look for it, but as the first mainline series entry in 10 years, is the perfect entry point for new players. 

This is the first-ever Pikmin game to include customisable characters, for example, meaning you can craft your own pint-sized avatars before setting off to rescue the adorable Captain Olimar who's posted absent without l🍌eave. In doing so, you'll be joined by newꦚ canine pal Rescue Pup Oatchi, with two new Pikmin types – Ice, who can freeze enemies and environments such as bodies of water; and Glow, who can stay out at night, fly, and merge to form one united ghost-like blob – joining the familiar cast of red, blue and yellow critters. 

Through all of this, Pikmin 4 is designed to suit players of all tastes. It's for fans of cosy games who want nothing more than to explore and experiment in a beautiful and thoughtful world; to kick back and chill out, and to go on an adventure with some of the cutest characterღs to have ever graced our screens.

– which not only lets you sample over two hours' worth of gameplay, but also lets you transfer your progreꦦss into the main game, should you choose to grab it at launch on July 21.