Nintendo has officially confirmed that the recently released Pikmin animated shorts, which sparked widespread speculation among fans, are not connected to any upcoming Pikmin game. Following the release of two short films titled Close To You, many fans had hoped that these videos were hinting at a new project in development. However, Nintendo has clarified that these animations are simply promotional works created by Nintendo Pictures.
In an official statement, the company said, “We hope you enjoyed the two ‘Close to You’ videos released on October 7 and 8. The second video is available on Nintendo Today!, a free app available on your smart device. These are the first short films created by Nintendo Pictures Co., Ltd. Nintendo Pictures will continue to explore new creative possibilities through video content.” This confirmation effectively ends ongoing fan theories suggesting that the shorts were intended as a teaser for a new entry in the Pikmin franchise.
The videos had initially caused a stir when they appeared online without any branding or context. The first Close To You short depicted a playful interaction between a baby and several Pikmin, sparking intense speculation among the community. Many believed the mysterious release might signal the start of a new marketing campaign for a future game. Fans noted subtle hints such as the music resembling tracks from Pikmin 4 and glimpses of familiar creatures in the background. The updated version of the short later confirmed the Pikmin connection, showcasing more characters and scenes reminiscent of the series’ distinctive tone.
Despite no immediate plans for another Pikmin game, fans can take comfort in the series’ continued prominence within Nintendo’s broader portfolio. Earlier this year, during a financial results briefing, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa highlighted Pikmin alongside The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros. as one of the company’s key franchises. This recognition signals that Pikmin remains an essential property for the company, even as its next major gaming installment remains unannounced.
For now, the Close To You shorts represent a creative showcase for Nintendo Pictures and a reminder of the enduring charm of the Pikmin universe. While no new game is on the immediate horizon, the franchise’s presence in multimedia projects suggests that Nintendo intends to keep the tiny plant creatures very much alive in the public eye.
