When the Pikmin Bloom mobile app was released on October 26, 2021, I was one of the first to download and dive into this new world. As a HUGE fan of the original Pikmin series, I was intrigued to see how this beloved franchise would translate into the mobile platform. Little did I know, this game would become more than just another app on my phone, it would assist me in achieving a balanced life and a healthier lifestyle.
Pikmin Bloom Review: More Than a Game
When reviewing Pikmin Bloom, one of the first things I discovered was that it was far from just a mobile game (if you could even call it a "Game" at all). It's an exercise motivator cleverly disguised as a playful adventure. To my surprise, it was not merely about collecting cute and colorful Pikmin; it was an ingenious way to encourage daily physical activity.
I quickly found myself aiming to get more than 10,000 steps a day, roughly 5 miles, just to progress in the game. This might seem like a tall order, but the game's design made it feel like an enjoyable challenge rather than a daunting task.
Building a Community
Pikmin Bloom isn't just a solo endeavor. The game offers options to join missions with friends, a feature that fosters a sense of community. Together, we can collect a variety of special event Pikmin, adding a refreshing and competitive twist to our daily walks.
However, the game is not without its shortcomings. I often find myself wishing for more connections to the mainline series of Pikmin, such as battling monsters or finding ship parts. Such features would undoubtedly add more motivation and variety to the experience. But even without these, the app, in its current state, is more than adequate.