Pikmin 2 2-Player Battle Mode Guide In-Depth FAQ By Joshua Morgan (opuren2) E-mail: faqs@nreviews.com Most recent version: Version 0.6 (December 20, 2007) Copyright 2006 Joshua Morgan. I am the Webmaster of www.nreviews.com. All content on www.nreviews.com Copyright 2000-2006 Joshua Morgan. This guide is proudly hosted on GameFAQs (www.gamefaqs.com) and NReviews (www.nreviews.com). Special thanks to GameFAQs for existing and hosting this guide! = = TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1 (S100): Introduction -1.1 (S101): Version History Section 2 (S200): Basics -2.1 (S201): What You Need -2.2 (S202): Controls Section 3 (S300): Rules of Play -3.1 (S301): Marbles -3.2 (S302): Growing Pikmin -3.3 (S303): The Playing Area -3.4 (S304): Olimar/Louie -3.5 (S305): Pikmin -3.6 (S306): Sprays Section 4 (S400): Cherries -4.1 (S401): Purple/Red Nectar -4.2 (S402): Volatile Dweevil -4.3 (S403): Fiery/Watery Blowhogs -4.4 (S404): Withering Blowhog -4.5 (S405): Swooping Snitchbug -4.6 (S406): Marble Recovery -4.7 (S407): Boulders -4.8 (S408): Flower Pikmin -4.9 (S409): +5/+10 Pikmin -4.10(S410): Invisibility Section 5 (S500): Battle Arenas -5.1 (S501): Battle Field -5.2 (S502): War Path -5.3 (S503): Carpet Plain -5.4 (S504): Angle Maze -5.5 (S505): Colosseum -5.6 (S506): Rusty Gulch -5.7 (S507): Brawl Yard -5.8 (S508): Tile Lands -5.9 (S509): Dim Labyrinth -5.10(S510): Hostile Territory Section 6 (S600): Strategies Section 7 (S700): Questions/Miscellaneous Information Section 8 (S800): Other Legal/E-mail Information -8.1 (S801): Contributors Listing -8.2 (S802): Copyright Information -8.3 (S803): What It All Means to You -8.4 (S804): Conclusion = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION (S100) Welcome to my first so-called guide, of FAQ as it is known on GameFAQs. I have done a few game help sections for my website, a few being very successful. I found it interesting, because whenever I need help in a game (which is rare) I turn to GameFAQs. For whatever reason, people tend to use search engines for their game questions. That opened my site to tons of visitors for my Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald game help page and my Sims Bustin Out game help page. I can't even tell you what compelled me to start this guide. Maybe I felt a longing for a more complete help page, as most of the stuff that people submit to GameFAQs is very thorough. I don't want to do a complete walkthrough yet, but it also has to be thorough enough to even be considered a guide. That's where GameFAQs In-Depth FAQs come in handy for people like me. Not that I would skimp on making a thorough guide, but it's a little less work to get a guide going on one subject rather than the whole bundle. Okay, so I decided I should do a guide. I originally was going to a guide for Mario Kart DS. I don't even own the game, but I play off of someone else's DS everyday online, and I know the online mode pretty well. And nobody has made an In-Depth FAQ for the topic of online play for that game. I got a little discouraged when I realized that a few of the complete walkthroughs have pretty extensive sections on the topic anyway. So I abandoned the idea, for now (but hey, there's an idea for someone else who has more motivation on the topic). But I'll tell you the main reason. I needed more knowledge of the way to connect to the Wi-Fi connection, and I would feel like reinventing the wheel to make a guide on this topic when it's already pretty thoroughly discussed in other guides. So, I'll lay it straight. I haven't looked at any other walkthrough for this game. So I don't know how thorough anyone else's guide is on the topic of 2- Player Battle Mode. So I hope that this guide covers everything you can think of in terms of this mode. And going back to the reason I am doing this, I still don't know. I am already very busy as it is. But you know, something feels right about making this guide. I don't feel like a nerd who is just wasting his time making a guide that takes tens of hours to complete. If I help one person, I'm going to feel good about having made this. The same goes for my entire website (www.nreviews.com). By the way, I am a nerd. When it came down to picking the game and topic, I chose from what I've already done for my site. My game help site for Pikmin is hardly comprehensive; mainly basic stuff. At this point, I don't feel like making a guide to the game. There are already plenty. But the 2-P Battle Mode hasn't been covered In-Depth, so I hope that I am the only one making this guide right now so that I'm not taking away from someone else. We'll see. And thanks for reading this rant. Now onto the guide. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 1.1: VERSION HISTORY (S101) -Version 0.6 (December 20, 2007): After a huge delay, I finally make another update (I can't believe I made no updates last summer). I added the fourth, fifth and sixth battle arena guides. For some reason, I never recorded when I did the second and third level guides in the version history. It was likely the February 4, 2007 update. -Version 0.52 (April 1, 2007): This update simply rids the version history of the second decimal point. I didn't like it (i.e. This would be version 0.5.2, but this update gets rid of the second decimal point, so it's truly 0.52) so I took care of that. I played the 2-P Battle Mode for an hour the other day, so believe me, I'll be finishing this soon. -Version 0.51 (February 4, 2007): Will I EVER finish this guide? Well, I updated the e-mail section with a new form that has replaced the former e- mail address. Sick of spam, that's all. -Version 0.5 (October 7, 2006): After a two-month hiatus, I decided to actually do something to the guide. Finished up the Cherries section, and begun the Battle Arenas section with the introduction and the first level. -Version 0.4 (August 2, 2006): Continued writing Cherries section. Added 'Threat Level' for each cherry. Slight revisions made for clarification. -Version 0.3 (July 30, 2006): Finished 'Sprays' subsection. Began Section 4 with a few of the Cherry symbols explained. Re-formatted guide for proper submission. IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON MAKING A GUIDE, DO NOT PRESS TAB. I LEARNED THIS THE HARD WAY TODAY, AND IT'S A GOOD THING I FOUND OUT SOONER THAN LATER. -Version 0.2 (July 29, 2006): Wrote all of Rules of Play section except 'Sprays' subsection. Wrote Table of Contents. -Version 0.1 (July 28, 2006): Began guide. Added template for Legal/E-Mail Section. Wrote Introduction and formatted the guide. Began Section 2 with 'What You Need' and 'Controls' subsections. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 2: BASICS (S200) Whether you've never picked up a GCN controller or even played Pikmin, the goal of this section is to get you familiar with how to play the game. That includes the controls and rules of play. The first subsection below will help you get started playing. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 2.1: WHAT YOU NEED (S201) Here's what you need to play besides the game disc and a working Gamecube (or Nintendo Wii). -2 controllers Yep, that's it. You don't even need a Memory Card for any part of the mode. The mode consists of 10 levels, which are already available right from the start. And since there's nothing to save or unlock, you don't need a Memory Card. There's very few games that do this. In fact, I can't think of any right now. I remember going to Japan and not even being able to play Custom Robo with my friend because he didn't have his Memory Card with him. What a bummer. You may as well insert a Memory Card because it will load the other settings that the game uses, like Surround sound, anti-flicker, etc. Unless you're real picky about settings, then you don't really even need to touch them in order to play the game. If you can, I'd suggest playing with a Surround sound system and putting the game to that setting. Just for graphics quality, I'd also suggest leaving the anti-flicker turned on. Other than that, this is all you need to play, literally. One reason I love this game. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 2.2: CONTROLS (S202) Below is a list of the controls used for every aspect of the battle mode. Just a heads-up that the player using the controller plugged into Slot 1 will control Red Pikmin with Olimar. The controller plugged into Slot 2 will control Blue Pikmin with Louie. Player 1 plays on the top screen, and Player 2 plays on the bottom screen. Control Stick: -Move Olimar/Louie around. C Stick: -Move Pikmin who are under your command in the direction that this is pointing. A Button: -Throw Pikmin from your army. -Hold button to hold onto one Pikmin and carry with you. -Pick Pikmin out of the ground (when near them). Continue pressing A to continue pulling more and more out of the ground without slowdowns. Stop pressing A to revert back to normal control of throwing Pikmin from your army. B Button: -Call all of your Pikmin back to you when they are not under your command. The Pikmin within range of your whistle will come back. Y Button: -Use a Cherry. Collect one with your Pikmin and wait for the roulette to stop on a symbol that will indicate what will occur when you press the button (See Section S56352 for info on what each Cherry symbol means). X Button: -Dismiss Pikmin under your command (See Section S56323 for info on idle Pikmin). Z Button: -Toggle between an aerial camera and a normal view camera. L Button: -Put the camera behind the direction Olimar/Louie is facing. R Button: -Toggle between three different zoom levels of the camera. It is defaulted to a normal view, and can go to a far zoom and close zoom and toggle back to normal. Normal or far zoom is recommended. -Hold button to fix camera at a closer, more horizontal view. Up on the + Pad: -Use purple spray. Down on the + Pad:-Use red spray. Start/Pause: -Pause the game. Use the Control Stick to choose whether or not to continue. Nothing else is seen on the Pause Menu, though the actual gameplay can be seen, but is faded. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3: RULES OF PLAY (S300) Okay, so let's lay down the rules of the 2P Battle Mode. You begin the game with a set amount of Pikmin. The default is 10, but you or your opponent may change this by pressing L to decrease by 5 and R to increase by 5 on the main menu for the mode. The minimum starting amount is 5, and the maximum starting amount is 50. A little more on Pikmin numbers later. This is the absolute only thing you can change about the gameplay. Think of it as a handicap. One person could have a few more than you if they are beginners, or vice versa. Personally, I always play with just 10 Pikmin to start. I think 5 Pikmin is a little too low, but for every five Pikmin you increase it by, you are lowering the amount of time to play. Then select one of the 10 levels, and you're ready to begin (Only Player 1 has control of choosing the level). Now that the game has begun, what do you do? A big part of this game is growing your Pikmin numbers, but it's not the ultimate goal. You may know that in the main game, you use your Pikmin army to find treasures. Sometimes these treasures are buried in the ground, and sometimes they are in enemies. Well, the treasures you collect in this mode are Marbles. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3.1: MARBLES (S301) Marbles are scattered all over each level. They are all colored yellow, as either player may take the marble. But your opponent and you both have a marble that is the same color as your Pikmin. Your Pikmin cannot move that marble, but your opponent can take it. Here are the two ways you can win: -Collect four yellow marbles. -Collect your opponent's marble. 'Collect' means to use your Pikmin to carry the marble back to where yours started at. This is also the place where your Pikmin sprout from and grow. The game calls it your Onion. Okay, but I'd like to think of this game as partially a game of capture the flag, errr...capture the marble. Plus it really isn't just your Onion. It is the area around it that feels like your own. So I am calling it your base. Pikmin automatically carry all items back to the same place (your base), and are programmed to take the shortest route possible to get there. In most levels, the shortest route should be obvious, but I will admit that the levels are all big to some extent. There's even one level that is very random, and may even be hard for you to remember where you are (See Section S34162). This is just a hint if you get lost. You can simply follow your Pikmin back to your base. I should also touch down on the basics of what Pikmin carry. Every item that they can carry (except for cherries) has a minimum amount of Pikmin needed to even lift it off the ground, and a maximum amount, which allows for fastest travel. Each enemy is a little different, but for marbles, you only need 1 Pikmin to carry it back to your base. However the maximum is 8, and if you're in a hurry, I'd suggest putting that much to the marble. Once the marble is safely inside the Onion, a symbol will appear to indicate that you have one marble. Each player has symbols to indicate how many they each have. Use this to your advantage, because if your opponent somehow has three yellow marbles, and have none, this may be a good time to plan on infiltrating their base and stealing their marble. Why? Because if you get it back to your Onion with it, you win. And when I say you win, there's no catch. That ends the round and you win! Sounds pretty good, but there are strategies to doing it. This is only the rules section, so see the section on strategies. But keep one thing in mind. You cannot move your marble, nor your opponent his. That means if you only get halfway back to your base and your opponent attacks you, you may be left helpless without any of your Pikmin with you. But here's the good thing. He cannot move the marble wherever it is. So your effort to get it halfway won't have been in vain. And here's another good thing. Whatever Pikmin your opponent's Pikmin defeat go back to your base. You just have to pick them out of the ground under your Onion. So now you know how to win. But you're going to need Pikmin to do it. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3.2: GROWING PIKMIN (S302) There are a few different ways to grow Pikmin. The most obvious and well- known way is to bring fallen enemies back to your base. You can also use two cherries to grow your Pikmin numbers (See Section S537238). There is only one restriction on Pikmin numbers. -You may not have more than 50 of your colored Pikmin anywhere in the field. That goes for your opponent, so just like the main game, only 100 Pikmin can exist in the field at once. And unlike the main game you cannot store Pikmin for later in your Onion. So any enemies or cherries you use to increase your Pikmin when you have 50 are useless. There are two numbers on the bottom of your screen. The first is how many Pikmin are under your command, and the second number is how many color of your Pikmin exist somewhere. Keep in mind the number includes those in the ground. The number of Pikmin you theoretically need to win the battle depends on you. You will want to spend a little bit of time growing Pikmin to get your numbers up, but spending too much time at your base leaves your opponent room to take all of the yellow marbles on the field. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3.3 THE PLAYING AREA (S303) Each level is different when it comes to enemies and obstacles. But there are some general things you should know. There's only one major thing that every level contains, and that is seven yellow marbles. That means there are not enough marbles for both you and your opponent to get four each, but there is enough for both of you to get three, and the one person to get four. This leaves for very interesting rounds, as you may end up fighting for the last marble. In some levels, the marbles will be inside of enemies. Read the section on levels for specific levels in which that is the case. But your base is very unique in that there are always a few things you can count on at your base. Below is an outline of what you can find there at the beginning of each match. -Your Onion (never moves) -Your Marble (an opponent can move it) -Eggs (contains nectar of some sort; anyone can break it, including yourself) -A few Pellet Posies (A few pellets grow in them, and can help you start growing your Pikmin army. -Yourself (Where you always begin) Later on you may also find these things at your base. -Enemies (Unless you lured an enemy there, your opponent used a cherry to drop them there. They disappear 50 seconds after dropped there) -Pikmin sprouts (from enemies you brought back to your Onion, from Pikmin defeated by your opponents Pikmin, or from a cherry) -Your opponent (Who is likely trying to steal your marble) Except for the last level, there aren't really any obstacles to run into in the game. In fact, let's review a few things you won't find in any level. -Walls to break down. -Water of any kind, and no fire spouts (though fiery/watery blowhogs can appear from enemies' cherries. See Section S403). -Other colors of Pikmin. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3.4: OLIMAR/LOUIE (S304) What rules apply to Olimar and Louie? Not much. You are hardly restricted to anything, except a few cases where your Pikmin can venture off into areas not accessible to you because of mini-walls, and etc. But there are a few ways they can get injured, listed below. -an enemy (such as biting) -boulders, from enemies and cherries. -bombs, from enemies and bomb spiders from cherries. -electricity (in the last level. See Section S510). There are also a few ways you cannot get hurt. -Fire or water (shot from a fiery blowhog or watery blowhog). -Opponent's Pikmin. Though you will not get physically hurt by opposing Pikmin, they can become annoying when they are all over you. Rotate the Control Stick to shake them off. They will continue to follow you, so best to get some of your Pikmin to help you out. Or a sneaky thing to do (if you have time, and see Section S6278 for more on this before you think about it) is to feed them to Bulborbs. The reason I point out that you can get hurt is that it is also possible to lose the match in two different ways, in addition to the fact that you can win two ways. Below are the two ways you can lose a match. -Your health is fully depleted. -All of your available Pikmin die. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3.5: PIKMIN (S305) There are a few things you should know about the Pikmin. One important thing that you may know from the main game is that red Pikmin are a little stronger than blue Pikmin. In this mode, to keep things fair, they are both of the same strength. There are also many ways they can die. Here are the all the ways. -defeated by opposing color Pikmin -eaten by an enemy -squashed by a boulder or some enemies -a bomb explosion -taken underground by a Breadbug -falling off of the course -electricity Remember, for specific levels that have these enemies and obstacles, see the Section for Battle Arenas. It is possible to give Pikmin flowers on their heads instead of just leaves. They start out as leaves when first picked, and the ones you start the game with you. The only benefit of Pikmin with flowers instead of leaves is that they travel faster, but it does help to have this. There are a few ways to change their leaves into flowers. -Any Pikmin who touches yellow nectar (can be from eggs, or in specific cases from enemies. See Section S306 for the special case on nectar from enemies). -From a cherry symbol (See Section S408) -Growing for extended periods of time in the ground. In addition, there are a few ways they can lose their flowers, and go back to leaves. NOTE: Instant Loss means the condition causes the flowers to go away immediately. Gradual Loss means the condition causes the flowers to go away after repeated exposure to the condition. -Caught in a wind from an orange blowhog dropped at your base (Instant Loss) -Caught in a wind from a big puffy, blue blowhog (Gradual Loss) -Shaken off by an enemy (Gradual Loss) -Forced into sprouts by your opponent's purple spray (Instant Loss) = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 3.6: SPRAYS (S306) Part of the rules is being allowed to use sprays. There are two types of sprays: red and purple. You use the + Pad to use a spray (See Section S202). In most levels, you begin with two of each kind, but in War Path you begin with just one of each (See Section S502 for info on War Path). There are a few ways to get more of the sprays. -Find purple or red nectar. -Use a cherry that corresponds to an additional purple or red spray (See Section S401) I'll start by talking about the purple spray. This spray is used in the main game to freeze enemies. In Battle Mode, you can also use it to freeze your opponent's Pikmin, and that's probably how you should use it. If you decide to freeze enemies, you can defeat them without problem. If you defeat enemies while they are frozen, instead of their body being there, you will be left with nectar. Usually it is yellow nectar, but occasionally it is purple or red nectar, which increases your sprays by one depending on the color. Simply walk over it with Olimar/Louie to get it. When I say freeze your opponent's Pikmin, you are really putting them into the ground. They will stay underground for about 10 seconds. It doesn't seem like long, but it really works well when your opponent is left helpless. During the time that they are underground, your opponent can try to pick a few out of the ground. But after 10 seconds, all affected Pikmin will simply pop right back up. Remember that since they have been put underground, they lose any flowers they have. Here's another good thing. If they were supercharged from a red spray and you use a purple spray, that condition also disappears. It will make your opponent feel like he wasted a red spray, and that's a good thing. Now onto red sprays. All Pikmin under your command will be supercharged when you use the red spray. When they are supercharged, the following conditions apply: -Run a little faster than flower Pikmin (regardless of whether they are flowers or leaves, they all run with the same speed). -Fight much stronger (Enemies and opponent's Pikmin stand little chance). There are a few other things to note. The condition wears off after about 40 seconds. Also keep in mind that Pikmin who engage enemies and are shaken off of them will lose the condition faster than the rest of the Pikmin. It's similar to the gradual loss of flowers on Pikmin when getting shaken off of an enemy. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4: CHERRIES (S400) Cherries are lying around every level, and are always regenerating. They mix up the game, but never very drastically. Cherries are very lightweight, and only take one Pikmin to carry back to your Onion. One is actually the minimum and maximum amount. They can travel very fast back to the Onion, usually fast enough to dodge enemies. They may brush by enemies, disturbing them. And if it's a big Bulborb, that could be very bad. Of course, a flower Pikmin will travel faster back with a cherry. When a cherry reaches the Onion, a roulette will spin for about 5 seconds and stop on a symbol. This section details what every symbol means and what to expect from each one. But you may find more than one cherry at one time. Well, every additional cherry that you receive from the roulette is stored and marked by a red dot. The roulette appears on the right side of the screen, and the red dots appear above the roulette. When you use a cherry (by pressing Y) the condition takes place immediately, and the roulette will spin again until there are no more red dots (additional cherries stored). Then the roulette will disappear until another cherry is stores in the Onion. You can have a maximum of five stored. That's four plus the one the roulette stopped on. You shouldn't have more than two or three at one time, anyway. The only way you might have four stored is if you are holding onto one and collect four more. Only four cherries can appear at one time in a level. Of course, they will regenerate forever until there are four present somewhere in the level. Where you find cherries differs on each level, but usually where you find one, you can find more regenerate there in the future. But once they are stored in the Onion, they will continue to regenerate randomly. Another cherry appears every 10 seconds, so you could easily spare a Pikmin every time you find a cherry to bring it back to the Onion and get heavily rewarded. The rest of this section covers what each symbol does, and how to use the symbols, and etc. They are ordered based off of the cherry symbols in the game's rules off of the main menu. A few of the symbols were combined since they are very similar in effect. Each description for the cherries uses these categories. -Looks Like: What the symbol looks like. -Effect: What the symbol does when executed. -Threat Level: The level of threat to your opponent when used or vice versa. -When it should be used: When the cherry should be executed. -Notes: Additional descriptive notes on effects and on recommended usage. Below are the definitions of each description for 'Threat Level'. -Low: Won't affect your opponent too much. -Medium: Can cause some negative effects on your opponent. -High: Will drastically affect your opponent. -Varies: Can sometimes do Low-High threats. Read Notes for additional information. Below are the definitions of each description for 'When it should be used'. -Always Immediately: Should always be executed immediately. -Usually Immediately: Should be executed immediately, but sometimes is better to be held. -Depends: Sometimes it should be used right away, but may be best to be held. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.1: PURPLE/RED NECTAR (S401) Looks Like: Purple goo and Red goo (Two different types of symbols) Effect: Adds one spray to each respective type Threat Level: Medium When it should be used: Always Immediately Notes: These should be pretty straight-forward. There's no reason to hold onto these, as you'll want/need all the sprays you can get. See Section S306 for info on the purple and red sprays. The threat level is considered Medium because even just one additional spray can mean a victory in a Pikmin-on- Pikmin battle. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.2: VOLATILE DWEEVIL (S402) Looks Like: A bomb spider Effect: Drops a dweevil right on your opponent, and will set off a timer for a bomb explosion if it spots movement. Threat Level: Varies When it should be used: Depends Notes: Really the only time you absolutely shouldn't use it if you are engaging your opponent and his Pikmin. You could also wait it out, and use it when your opponent has the most Pikmin with him. It's also smart to use this when your opponent is in a small area or a corner. Usually you can outrun the spider if you call your Pikmin right away and keep running, so it's not the most effective cherry. There is one little catch to it. If you drop it on your opponent, and your opponent runs away fast enough, he can actually escape it before it sees him and sets off the bomb. Of course, it will not go away, and it will follow anything it sees moving. So if it is dropped between you and your opponent, and your opponent runs away, the spider may just decide to come back to you rather than chase after the opponent. Just be careful, and it could be very effective, if you're lucky. That is why the threat level varies-it could be devastating or do little to nothing. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.3: FIERY/WATERY BLOWHOGS (S403) Looks Like: Two fat white things, one with a red spout, one with a blue spout. Effect: Drops a fiery or watery blowhog at your opponent's base. If your opponent has red Pikmin, it will be a watery blowhog. If your opponent has blue Pikmin, it will be a fiery blowhog. Lasts for 50 seconds. Threat Level: Medium When it should be used: Usually Immediately Notes: This little monster will spray water or fire, depending on which one would kill the opponent's Pikmin. Since it is dropped at the base, it could end up killing stray Pikmin that may have been taking something back to the Onion. This one depends a little on timing, though you can usually use it immediately and be safe. It could be just as bad for your opponent when he is at the base than when he isn't at the base. Let's consider both opportunities. If your opponent isn't at his base, you should only use it if you know there are stray Pikmin there to be affected by the enemy. However, it may be in your best interest to just use it and move on to another cherry. But what if your opponent is there? He may be trying to pick some Pikmin out of the ground, and with the rest of his army running crazy from fire/water, it can be hectic for him. And stalling him can be a good thing. The enemy isn't too hard to defeat, so the threat level remains at Medium. But what if it happens to you? Usually, it is unwise to interrupt what you are doing to go back to your base to save a few Pikmin. But if you are caught at your base with one, it may be wise to destroy it quickly as to not impede your progress. And keep in mind that you and your opponent can send in as many as the cherries will allow it. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.4: WITHERING BLOWHOG (S404) Looks Like: A big orange puffy balloon. Effect: Drops an orange blowhog at your opponent's base; blows Pikmin making them stumble and lose their flowers, if they have any. Lasts for 50 seconds. Threat Level: Low When it should be used: Usually Immediately Notes: This enemy will become a problem for your opponent if he is at the base. But either way, stray Pikmin at the base will lose their flowers, which will make it harder on your opponent. It may be helpful to hold onto it until your opponent comes by his base, or when you are away form the base, but since it isn't a huge burden either way, it's usually best to simply execute it right away. It will also cause your opponent to fall down, so it will be more effective if your opponent is there. Then again, you could use it when your opponent isn't there, and there will be an unpleasant surprise waiting for him when he gets back. But to move onto another cherry, for you, it's probably best to use it right away. If this beast is in your base, it may be worth your time to bring it down. Of course, if all of your Pikmin are leaves anyway, then maybe waiting it out is best. But usually, you'll find these guys' annoyances too much to keep alive. Though they are annoying, they can't kill Pikmin, so the threat level is low. This is also because it isn't too hard to either get a flower symbol from a cherry or find yellow nectar to bring your Pikmin back to flowers, if affected by this enemy. And besides all of that, he isn't too hard to take on. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.5: SWOOPING SNITHCBUG (S405) Looks Like: A bee with two legs, dark-brownish to black color. Effect: Flies in the air waiting for nearby Pikmin. Makes a quick swoop down to attempt to grab one, and can occasionally get two at once. If not touched for about 10 seconds, it will shoot the Pikmin into the ground, where it must be picked again, and will lose flowers/red spray capabilities. Lasts for 50 seconds. Threat Level: Low When it should be used: Always Immediately Notes: These enemies can become major pests to your opponent. Regardless of where your opponent is, it's common knowledge that a few Pikmin will eventually end up at the base. And it can swoop down to get both idle Pikmin, and Pikmin under your opponent's command. Because it goes after bigger groups of Pikmin rather than stray Pikmin who are near no other Pikmin, it will go after your opponent's group. That can also irritate him and not only cause his Pikmin's amounts to deplete, but may also cause him to attack the Swooping Snitchbug, wasting his time. Once again, if you are plagued with one at your base, and you are there, I would suggest destroying it real quick. They are a bit agile at times, so if you choose to engage it, try doing so when it is holding Pikmin. They don't move as fast when holding Pikmin, because they are more concerned about where to place it in the ground than about other things. And finally, it is recommended to be used right away. Even though there may be no Pikmin there, the threat level isn't very high. They are too slow to do major damage, and would probably be a hindrance to you if you held onto the symbol. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.6: MARBLE RECOVERY (S406) Looks Like: A marble with an arrow coming out of it, indicating retrieval. Effect: Your marble will automatically be brought back to your base, regardless of where it is (the only exception is if it underground, and that can only happen at Dim Labyrinth. See Section S509). Threat Level: Varies When it should be used: Depends Notes: Okay, this is the major cherry symbol that can really help you out. Your opponent can move your marble back to his Onion and win the game. But you cannot use your Pikmin to move your marble, so if he gets halfway to his base with it, it's stuck there until he moves it. That's where this symbol comes very handy. Simply use it, and no matter how far away your marble is, it will come bouncing back to your base. This includes instances where your opponent's Pikmin are carrying it. If they are carrying it, they'll automatically drop it. So the time to use it depends. If you want the marble back, you could wait until your opponent gets close to his Onion and use it. But here's something. Holding onto this symbol (and making sure your opponent knows) basically ensures that they won't go after it. I know people who will hold onto this symbol the whole battle and hope that you don't go after their marble. Of course, there's something else to that. If they don't notice that you are taking their marble, you can still win, even if they are holding onto this symbol. After all, the symbol is useless until you use it. Kind of like money. But anyway, it really depends on when to use it. You may want to hold it for protection, but then you'll be at a loss for future cherry uses. So, if it's early in the game, you may want to simply use it to get rid of it. But if you see your opponent stealing your marble, you may want to hope that this symbol comes up, if you can't easily attack them. The threat level also varies, because it could make or break the game for your opponent. The threat level almost goes both ways, because not using this symbol properly could mean a loss for you, too. Dim Labyrinth will really make you think about when to use this, but it's a very sneaky case that is described in that section (Section S509). = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.7: BOULDERS (S407) Looks Like: A brown rock. Effect: Drops boulders onto your opponent. Threat Level: Varies When it should be used: Always Immediately Notes: A lot of the threat of this symbol depends on whether or not your opponent can escape it. Nevertheless, it should always be used immediately. The threat level is usually low, as your opponent can escape it. But if you're lucky, and he's standing still (like drinking purple or red nectar) and a boulder may fall right on top of him or his Pikmim army. Either way, it's better to get rid of it and move on to another symbol. And unless you're standing right next to your opponent, then it's best to use it immediately. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.8: FLOWER PIKMIN (S408) Looks Like: A white flower. Effect: Changes all of your active Pikmin into flower Pikmin instantly. Threat Level: Low When it should be used: Depends Notes: It can be very helpful to have all of your Pikmin who are in the field to travel at the same speed as you. When they are not flower Pikmin, they can't always keep up with you. It's best to use this cherry when there are enough Pikmin on the field to take maximum advantage of this. If your opponent has frozen your Pikmin and/or many of your Pikmin are buried in the ground, then you should pick some out and then use cherry. Also remember this little tidbit-Pikmin who are not completely out of the ground when you use the cherry will not take the effect. A Pikmin is fully out of the ground when it is standing on its two feet, and more noticeably, the bar on the bottom part of your screen indicates one more Pikmin has sprouted. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.9: +5/+10 PIKMIN (S409) Looks Like: A Pikmin leaf sprout with a +5/+10 symbol. Effect: Adds 5/10 more Pikmin to your base and total Pikmin count (up to the point where total Pikmin count is 50). Threat Level: Varies When it should be used: Usually Immediately Notes: This is pretty self-explanatory. Just go back to your base to pick some more Pikmin out. The only thing that should be noted is that this shouldn't be used of you have 50 Pikmin. But, you may also be under the circumstances of needing to get rid of a cherry. Also understand that just five Pikmin could mean a lot of damage to your opponent. The threat level always varies because it's not always the most threatening cherry. Otherwise, you should always use this immediately. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 4.10: INVISIBILITY (S410) Looks Like: A light blue, ghost-like Pikmin figure. Effect: Makes all of your Pikmin, and Olimar/Louie invisible. Lasts for 55 seconds. Threat Level: Medium When it should be used: Always Immediately Notes: I honestly cannot think of a situation not to use this cherry immediately. The threat level can be decent if you sneak by your opponent. But there are some minor effects of this cherry that need to be noted. You are your Pikmins' footsteps are noticeable, so once you get somewhat close to your opponent for a surprise attack, don't hang back because they'll notice and attack you first. But if you keep charging your opponent, he won't have additional time to react to noticing your Pikmin this way. Another thing to note is that the pink glow of Pikmin with red spray on them is always visible. This little wrinkle shouldn't be much of a problem, as your attack with sprayed Pikmin should go rather well regardless of invisibility. Invisibility takes effect on all of your Pikmin, even ones grown after you started using the cherry. The effect lasts for 55 seconds, which also contributes to the threat level. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5: BATTLE ARENAS (S500) It's time to explore the game's ten levels for 2-Player Battle Mode. What makes this game's mode so interesting is that the levels are not the same every time. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to play the same exact level with everything in the same exact position twice. Each of the ten, while varied, still has its own unique style that even with some variants and differences between each version of the level, the levels still hold a common theme. No matter which version of Hostile Territory you get, for example, you'll always have to encounter electricity. This is just one of many examples that you'll find. In each section, I'll try to describe the level a little, including the variations, but the main goal is to point out key things about each level that can help you win. Most of the levels have multiple versions, which are detailed in no particular order. However, what I do is try to explain the general information of the level, then go into the first version There are enemies you should know about (besides your opponent's Pikmin). Here is a brief explanation of each enemy, so when I use the names of the enemy, you'll know what I am talking about (in order of appearance in levels). -Dwarf Red Bulborb: The small version of the Red Bulborb. These are the little guys with red coating, and white spots. The easiest of all bulborbs to defeat. Simply throw a Pikmin on one, or the usual attacking of many Pikmin. -Female Sheargrub: The little white bugs that cause no damage, and live underground. Simply use a few Pikmin to take it down. It will go back underground if nothing is near it. These enemies do not hurt Pikmin, so there are no worries. -Snow Bulborb: The small version of the Hairy Bulborb. As the name suggests, these little guys are white-colored. They pose the same threat as the Dwarf Red Bulborbs, which is small, anyway. As with the Dwarf Red Bulborbs, simply pop a Pikmin on top of it to kill it instantly. -Dwarf Orange Bulborb: This bulborb has slightly better senses than the Snow and Dwarf Red Bulborbs. The other two bulborbs, you could get really close and throw a Pikmin on top for a quick kill. This bulborb will sense you from a bigger distance, so doing that won't be as easy unless you're much quicker. These guys also have slightly higher health which makes it a more formidable foe. -Puffy Blowhog: This blue flying balloon moves swiftly when it spots Pikmin. It will face you and move backwards the direction you are moving as to get a good angle to blow your Pikmin away. He can also knock you down if you're not careful. These guys can be brought down if you shoot a lot of Pikmin to the bottom of him, where the Pikmin will attach and fight. If there are few Pikmin attacking it, it will easily shake them off. Once it is brought down by a lot of Pikmin, you can then attempt to swarm it. Be warned that it will shake them away and rise back into the air in only a few seconds, so be quick. An annoying and strong enemy. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5.1: BATTLE FIELD (S501) Battle Field begins the big list of levels available for 2-Player Battle Mode. Being the first level means that a lot of the difficulty that one may encounter in later levels isn't here. This level really does act as a basic level for beginners, but the cool thing is that there is enough variety for veterans to keep playing it. General: The level is sandy/rocky ground with just a few Dwarf Red Bulborbs here and there, and those are the hardest enemies you'll find. Female Sheargrubs should cause little problems, distractions at most. That also leads to noting that there's also less opportunity for growing Pikmin. However, you won't need too many Pikmin here, anyway. First Version: Your base and your opponent's are a short walk from each other directly straight leading out of your base. The only obstacles are the bulborbs, basically. There are four marbles are in the four corners of the main arena, and three more spread out in the middle. Second Version: Instead of being able to directly walk to your opponent's base, the main portion is like a donut. Simply walk on either side of the circle that separates the otherwise straight walk. Halfway around each side of the circle are a few inserts with marbles inside. Again, a few marbles are spread elsewhere. Third Version: In this version the main portion requires you to head straight out of you base, and then make a 90-degree turn to a long hallway that connects you with your opponent's base. Halfway to your opponent's base, you can make another 90-degree turn into the main portion of the level with a few marbles lying around. Of course, you'll notice a few marbles in that hallway up for grabs, as well. The bulborbs are located in the main portion, as usual. Strategies: I would suggest simply going after the marbles. You should be able to get two before running into your opponent, unless you are on the third version, where the marbles are closer together. Keep in mind that the enemies are a minor hindrance in this level, so if you have a lot of Pikmin, don't bother killing them. Unless your opponent is extremely distracted and you can really sneak by, I wouldn't go for his marble. If you can get two marbles, then win in a possible fight over the last ones, you should turn out the victor! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5.2: WAR PATH (S502) War Path is a small level, like the first level, Battle Field. However, in this level, because of the closer quarters to your opponent, you begin with one of each spray, instead of two like other levels (See Section S306 for info on sprays). You'll find that you can also use this level as a way to have a bit quicker of a battle than the other levels. General: Another level with sandy ground. Stone walls and some stone floors also make up the level. There are several female sheargrubs, and in two versions, there are some snow bulborbs. Obviously, that only slightly increases the level difficulty from the first level. Because of the tight space, you'll find the battles lasting a bit shorter than usual. You won't need to grow many Pikmin here to get the job done. First Version: Both bases are square shaped, with the usual Pellet Posies waiting near your Onion for come early Pikmin growing. There is one main, sandy path that curves once 90 degrees, intersects with other stony paths and leads to your opponent's base. This main intersection is where the cherries fall to. Depending on which side of the level you got, there will be either three or four paths leading from your base. One of those is the main path. That leads two or three curvy stoned paths. Two should lead to your opponent. If you have the third one, it is simply an alternate route to the main intersection. The marbles are located on these paths. There are also eggs located on these paths. Second Version: In this version, there is one curvy stoned path that leads directly to your opponent's base. Otherwise, you can enter the main area, not available in the other two versions. This main area is triangularly shaped, with the hypotenuse of the triangle acting as a wall. This main area features some of the snow bulborbs, and should contain a few marbles. Third Version: This is the famed version. If you get this version, your base and your opponent's base are literally right next to each other. There are two stone paths that curve 90 degrees from your base to your opponent's base, at different sides. Your bases are also cut diagonally on opposite ends. This is the smallest version of this level. Look for the marbles near cut-out corners of your base, and in the two curved stone paths. Strategies: Despite the differences in the versions, there should always be an opportunity when your opponent goes elsewhere and you can sneak by to get to his marble. However, the differences in versions will determine if you can easily get back to the base or not. In the second version, you can get by your opponent without him ever seeing his stolen marble. That's because there are ultimately two paths to get to your opponent's base-the main area, or the curvy stoned path. So, if you see your Pikmin walking toward the direction of your opponent, you may want to call them back. Also bear in mind that the level is small in any of the versions, so stealing the marble may depend more on the number of Pikmin you have over your opponent, or how effectively you use your sprays. In the first and third versions, you'll be hard-pressed to get by your opponent without him noticing. That's because the first version makes your Pikmin go through the main intersection, which your opponent will likely notice; and, the third version is so small that they really have to not be looking. On the other hand, because the third version is so small, you may be able to pull a fast steal and win. If stealing your opponent's marble isn't your thing, you can still win by quickly pursuing the half-buried yellow marbles. Like the first level, you should be able to get two marbles, and fight for the last ones. Just go into the level knowing where they are to have the advantage. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5.3: CARPET PLAIN (S503) Carpet Plain starts the series of big-sized levels, and this one is fairly big. This level is a small step up in the scale of difficulty. There are more enemies to contend with, and a more fearful size and distance from your opponent. I would consider this a veteran's level. General: The land is carpet, and the walls are toy items, like wooden blocks. This is no kid's level, though. A few dwarf orange bulborbs make their appearance, along with some dwarf red bulborbs and a puffy blowhog. Under some yellow marbles are also male sheargrubs, who can fly and eat Pikmin. There are a few boulders that can fall if you step over certain parts of the level. Finally, the size is rather large, so be prepared for a longer fight than the first two levels would render. The level is certainly harder than previous affairs. First Version: This level features bases with several inlets that contain a few goodies like an enemy or an egg. There is a house object that is the forms the corner of the path to one main area adjacent to your base. Heading 90 degrees to the right will lead you to your opponent's adjacent main area. Once in your opponent's main area, heading 90 degrees left will lead to your opponent's base. Obviously, stealing a marble is a bit tricky with this version. In these two main areas, you'll have to contend with a puffy blowhog. There are also additional inlets that contain marbles. Second Version: In this version, the bases are huge. The two main areas are still present. However, one path directly from your base will lead you over two wooden ramps that leads to your opponent's adjacent main area. Heading straight through that area leads to your opponent's base. It's not any quicker to get there, but it is a bit more clandestine. Essentially, that boils down to the fact that you don't have to go through two main areas to get to your opponent's marble. Alternatively, you can travel through your main area and simply slip over to your opponent's main area, which is visible and right next to your main area. There are two small paths that lead from your base to your main area, two small paths that connect each main area, and your opponent will likewise have two small paths with which to enter. That's not including the bonus path that I mentioned that connects from their base to your main area and vice versa. It's a bit more complicated, but all makes sense when seen. Strategies: This level only has two versions (unless I've never got the third version, which I doubt), which makes explaining strategies a little easier. With either version, you'll likely have to deal with the puffy blowhog. I would suggest using the enemies that are there as objects you can take back to the Onion to grow more Pikmin. In fact, I would recommend taking a bit of time to get grow some Pikmin. I would also recommend using those Pikmin to quickly take down the puffy blowhog. I think it's easier in this level to get rid of the puffy blowhog in your area and then collect a few marbles. You might only have three in your area, so get some sprays and Pikmin ready to get a fourth marble in your opponent's main area. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5.4: ANGLE MAZE (S504) The name comes from the sharp turns and tight spaces that feature more enemies and slightly harder navigation. Not a huge level, but can prove intimidating in its mysteriousness. Angle Maze also features more varied versions of the same level than the other levels sport. Please read the versions carefully because of some big differences. General: This level continues the slight increase in difficulty by providing several of the bigger red bulborbs. Dwarf Bulbears are also introduced, which can see your Pikmin from quite a distance and are usually located around the bigger bulborbs. First Version: Players' bases are on white dirt and contain the usual pellet posies and an egg. This version has a square center of brown dirt. It spirals down to the center of the level, which is sunken in. The spiral is also formed around the square. There are three levels to the spiral. The first/top level can be navigated to get to your opponent's base. There is also one long path of white dirt that leads to marbles and a sort of backdoor path to your opponent's base. The enemies are located in the spiral area. Second Version: This is more related to the first version that the third version is. This version has a circular center and it's a straight path to the opponent. However, this version is the only version of any 2P Battle Mode level that features a boss. If someone steps in the dead center of the arena, a big black spider will appear (I've forgotten the name right now). It has fat legs that will stomp your Pikmin for an instant death. It's kind of a secret, because it won't appear unless someone steps in the center. This version still features the powerful bulbears and bulborbs. Player's bases may contain bulbears/bulborbs or on the path leading out. Marbles are located in inlets around the spherical center, and are usually surrounded by enemies. This version also contains the most possibilities for variations. It's possible to have a backdoor path from your base to the spherical center, but unlike the first version, there will never be a backdoor path directly to your opponent's base. This version is without a doubt the hardest of the three. Third Version: This version is very different from the first two, as it is basically a maze. There is no central area-instead there are several twists and turns that will somehow get you to your opponent. It's more likely that in this version you won't encounter your opponent than in the other two. The bases always contain an elevation that requires walking up a ramp, but the actual Onions may or may not be on this elevated portion. There is one section off of what can be considered the main path to your opponent's base that contains more marbles than what is regularly strewn about. Although this version is compact, it is about the same size as the other versions that have the big center to it. Strategies: They vary greatly for this level because of the vast differences in the versions. If you have the second version, a big difference is the inclusion of the spider boss. If both players are aware if the second version, it's possible to avoid the center for the entire match. Just remember that the Pikmin themselves may bring the creature out by walking in the center carrying an item. The other two versions don't have that problem, but still contain the somewhat difficult enemies (that being the bulbears and bulborbs). You'll have to clear some enemies away to get four marbles, or to even safely steal your opponent's marble no matter which version you get. A lot of the difficulty also depends on how well your opponent handles the enemies and the level's layout. Like I mentioned in my description of the versions, you'll likely run into your opponent in the first two versions, so be prepared for a fight. In the third version, it's still very possible to run into your opponent, but timing will also help you avoid your opponent if necessary. I would suggest sticking to the straightforward collecting of yellow marbles. I would simply add a precaution to watch your Pikmin, and possibly your base. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5.5: COLOSSEUM (S505) While none of the versions are massive, this level is a bit bigger than others and sports the name likely due to the enemies being centered toward one area. It is also dark and secluded, having a sort of dungeon like feel to it. The entire level is white and introduces monsters that shoot out rock cannon balls. It is also required that some enemies die as random enemies contain marbles. Get ready for a battle here at the colosseum. General: As mentioned above, the level is entirely white ground. The level follows some distinct patterns no matter which version you get. There are two green monsters that spit rock balls in the level, but no harder enemy than that. It's no short walk to your opponent's base and the feeling of seclusion will likely keep you near your Pikmin, anyway. While the sheer number of enemies can quickly lead to tough battles, it will also lead to growing your Pikmin amount very quickly. It's easy to build bigger armies of Pikmin here. Also, there are only three buried yellow marbles here, and the rest are randomly placed inside of the enemies. You'll have to defeat enemies to find which ones have the additional yellow marbles. Each version can be distinguished by what your base looks like. First Version: This version is the one with a tree stump at the base, and a circular ramp leading up to the stump, although there is no connection to the top of the stump for you. If you walk out to the first section, there will be a number of bulborbs, along with a rock opening and a brown dirt inlet that leads nowhere. If you head right, you'll come to the middle section which contains a tree ramp that leads to a high wooden section that will contain some enemies. You can throw Pikmin to this upper section and then use the C Stick after calling them to lead them up and around to the tall portion. This section may only be necessary to access if the yellow marbles are not in other enemies that are already on the ground. This version can give favor to one side because the enemies who happen to contain yellow marbles may all be in one area. That area could be the first section of either player's base. So there is luck to winning this version, but one who is diligent and quick in navigating through should be able to claim victory. Also, the two green monsters are randomly placed in the three sections, so it's possible that you'll have two green monsters in a spot where your opponent simply has bulborbs. Second Version: This version is the one with several inlets at the base that contain eggs. One of those supposed inlets leads out to the first section, which contains the tall wooden section that in the first version of this level was described to have a some enemies and only navigable for Pikmin. Because this is the first section, your opponent will have one of these wooden sections, too. Because that tall wooden section is seen quicker than the other version, the central area is already different. This middle section is bigger than the one featured in the first version. It features an accessible white ramp that sometimes contains additional enemies, or a buried marble. The ramp is closer to one of the player's bases than the other. Many of the enemies conjoin in the center, and that increases the possibility of finding many yellow marbles. Finally, luck plays a similar role in this version, as the green monsters can be near your base, your opponent, or in the middle. Third Version: This version is the one where both bases contain that big white ramp found in the center of the second version. Your onion is between the decline of the ramp, and the narrow path that leads to the center. That big middle section found in the second version is duplicated, so this is the biggest of the three versions. You can choose to go left or right out of your base. It will then curve the opposite direction 90 degrees and will lead you to your opponent's base. The section in between these two paths is the same 'first section' found in the second version, with the tall wooden section that is in all three versions. Because both bases have two paths out and they both lead to the opponent's side, there are two different ways to get to your opponent. The strategy comes into play when you consider the possibility of sneaking by your opponent and to his base down a different path than where your opponent is. If you zoom out the camera (toggled with the R button) all the way and head to the edge of your big base area, you can see a bit of your opponent's side. Otherwise, the enemies are the same and so are the strategies. Strategies: I like the way this level was designed because although there are three versions, it is very uniform in its layout. And although the positions of the enemies that contain the yellow marbles are random, the level is predictable in its approach. I would suggest going after the bulborbs by throwing a Pikmin on top of them to bop them in the head. Don't be scared by the white bulborbs, either-they're about the same as the red ones. If you happen to have a green monster near your base and you need to fight it to pass through, be careful as your Pikmin number is likely low at that point. I would suggest a rinse and repeat method of throwing the Pikmin on the guy, calling them back when he throws them off, but before he rolls the rock over them. Growing Pikmin here is fast because of the amount of enemies, so don't take too much effort in growing. I would suggest throwing the minimal amount of Pikmin to carry the enemies back. That's three Pikmin for the bulborbs and seven for the big green monster. There's no rush after you have a good 20 or so Pikmin. You can always go back to your base when you need more. You also may not have to engage your opponent. All the battling of bulborbs you do should give you enough yellow marbles. Then again, it is random where all the marbles are, so be diligent no matter what. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 5.6: RUSTY GULCH (S506) The level's name comes from all the paths being rusted metal, and there being a big drop that if Pikmin fall down will disappear forever. This level features few enemies, but longer paths. Not the most fun of levels to play, but can prove challenging nevertheless. While there are three different versions, each version itself never changes its layout or yellow marble positions. First Version: Your base will contain a couple inlets (one with pellet posies), and three paths that lead outward. You'll know it's this version because of a circle made of turquoise pebbles at each base. This version has a middle section containing a Gatling Groink, who will shoot projectiles up in the air. Direct hits will instantly kill Pikmin, and even nearby bulborbs. He's a tough enemy; refer to the enemy section at S500 to read more. The seven marbles are near the center of the level, one being right next to the foe. This version is uniform and mirrored on each side, in the sense that the layout is exactly the same on both sides if you put a mirror in between you and your opponent. Second Version: This is the only version where your base is marked by pink pebbles. Both bases are circular, and every 90 degrees is a path. One of those is an inlet leading nowhere, while the other three lead to your opponent. Instead of there being a center with one Gatling Groink, the two side paths each contain one Gatling Groink that is elevated. This is the easiest version because there are five marbles in the center, and one by each gatling groink. The center is simply a straight path to your opponent. Like the first version, this version is an exact mirror on both sides. Third Version: This version is a unique version of this level because, like the other two versions, the layout is always the same, but it is not uniform in any way. I will describe it from one perspective, but either player could begin from this side. Both player's bases contain what looks like a bunch of turquoise pebbles, surrounded by a circular brown metal mall that sinks down as you leave the base. As you leave if you turn left, you'll come across a dead end. It will curve slightly to the right and then back to the left for an inlet, but that's it. However, that slight curve to the left connects to a path that is higher up. Your opponent can use this path to come down to your base quickly. To get up to that point, go back the way you came (toward your base) and follow the path to a ramp. Turn left at the 90 degree corner to go down the ramp, and turn left again and you'll come to an intersection. If you ignore the intersection and keep going straight, you'll go up a gradual incline, and come to the spot that I was talking about earlier where you can drop down quick to get down to your base. Going the opposite direction will lead to your opponent's base. A gradual incline and then a gradual decline before another turn will signal the path to your opponent. Now about that intersection-that path is a long ramp up that leads to two marbles. This is the highest point of the level, and you can see the entire rest of the level from the top of here. Both you and your opponent have two marbles near your base, and the seventh marble is in the middle path that connects the two bases. This version is always the same, so it is the most predictable of all the levels. Strategies: What's great about this level is that if you end up playing it enough, you'll find what I found-every version in and of itself never changes. So there are three versions, but each version is different. The last version will prove to be the most challenging and haphazard because of which side you end up on. I would say that the side from which I described the intersection being close to has the advantage because the path that leads from the top of the level with the two yellow marbles. On the other hand, because your opponent has less of a walk with that shortcut to your base, it could go either way. I would stick with going after the yellow marbles no matter what version you get. In the second version, you can probably avoid they gatling groinks. In the first version, you and/or your opponent will pretty much have to destroy the gatling groink, even if you decide to steal your opponent's marble instead of getting the yellow ones. Because of the closeness of the yellow marbles in the first two versions, and the narrow inter-connecting paths of the third, chances are you'll have to engage your opponent. There's not much opportunity for Pikmin growth here, so look for those cherries if you want to increase your chances of more Pikmin and other goodies. Of course, if you take back a gatling groink, you'll get a lot of Pikmin, so keep that in mind if you're really short and can somehow fight it off. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 7: QUESTIONS/MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION (S700) Nothing so far! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 8: OTHER LEGAL/E-MAIL INFORMATION (S800) You may e-mail me if you think there is an error in the guide, or for contributions to this guide. I know there are a lot of strategies or alternate ideas to mine, and I like bouncing ideas off of you guys, so don't be shy when e-mailing stuff like that. You may also send in any questions pertaining to Pikmin 2. If it's relevant, and I haven't covered it in the guide, I may just write the answer right into the guide. Otherwise, I won't reply. In fact, I may not reply to you directly at all. I may just post the information in here. All contributors will receive credit. That means most of the time, your handle name will appear as a credit, though I will use real name, if you allow it and/or prefer it. Contributors to this guide are listed in the section below. The website for the e-mail form is: http://www.nreviews.com/faqs/form.html I have set up this form through my website that filters out a ton of spam. I was getting an insurmountable amount of spam e-mails when I was giving out an e-mail address to people. The form on the website goes to my e-mail address, but it requires that somebody fill out the form manually every time. Spam doesn't work that way, so this should solve my problem. Oh, and you may search my site and find a few other e-mail addresses that go to my site. I will likely regard it as spam if it isn't sent using the form provided at the web address above. So, just use the form and we'll be square. Oh, and remember to write "Pikmin 2" somewhere in the subject line. That just lets me know that it is for that game. Thanks. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 8.1: CONTRIBUTORS LISTING (S801) None so far! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 8.2: COPYRIGHT INFORMATION (S802) This guide is copyright 2006-2007 Joshua Morgan. This guide is for personal and private use only. The following two websites below are the only two sites that may host this guide. www.gamefaqs.com www.nreviews.com This guide may not be placed on any other website or otherwise distributed publicly without advance written permission. Use of this guide on any other website other than the two listed above or as a part of any public display is strictly prohibited and a violation of copyright. All trademarks and copyrights used in this guide are owned by their respective trademark and copyright holders. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 8.3: WHAT IT ALL MEANS TO YOU (S803) Basically, this guide can be used for any purpose that you feel you may need it for, like beating someone in 2-P Battle Mode. But don't go posting it around the net. And I would really appreciate if you let me know if you find this guide anywhere else but the two sites listed above. I may as well repeat them in case you're too lazy to scroll up (plus it reminds you of my website, if you're reading this on GameFAQs). www.gamefaqs.com www.nreviews.com Get it? So this guide existing on some other site is very bad. Once again, please let me know using the form at http://www.nreviews.com/faqs/form.html to inform me of any instances of this guide being somewhere else. That would be copyright infringement, and will be dealt with seriously. Okay, here's one I get a lot: requests to put on other sites. At this time, I am not accepting ANY requests to put this guide on any other site. And to be honest, it's not necessary. It's already on two sites that are reliable on server uptime and it's not too hard to link to my site at www.nreviews.com (GameFAQs doesn't allow links directly to the guides). And finally, all copyrights and trademarks related to Pikmin 2, as in the title, and the published work as a whole, is the sole copyrights and trademarks of the owner (I'm assuming it's just Nintendo). Thanks for making an excellent game, Nintendo! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = SECTION 8.4: CONCLUSION (S804) Well, thank you for reading this guide. Once again, this is my first guide, so also feel free to write in comments and suggestions for this guide. I hope to do some future guides, and I will use this guide as a basis for future guides. So, if there's something that really irritated you, or something you really liked, let me know. I hope you enjoyed it, and I hope you visit my website at www.nreviews.com and see what else I've been doing as webmaster of NReviews for the last four years. -Josh