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Although the Pikmin series has always been about the tiny, alien creatures that can perform a multitude of functions, Pikmin 4 is taking a different approach with the addition of a furry companion for players. The arrival of Oatchi, the rescue pup, brings another layer of strategy to the puzzle adventure, and this puppy is more than just a cute face.
Indeed, as players progress through the game, Oatchi will become much more proficient at being a helpful ally. From gaining strength to pull big objects to becoming a master digger, there are many ways in which players can use Oatchi to gain an advantage in Pikmin 4. For those hoping to understand the potential of Oatchi in the game, this guide to all of its skills will be very helpful.
How to Unlock Oatchi Skill Upgrades
In order to be able to upgrade Oatchi's skills, players will first have to rescue Russ from the first cave in the game. This is unmissable, and once that is done, Captain Shepherd will make it possible to teach this dog some new tricks.
All Oatchi Rescue Pup Skills in Pikmin 4
As a rescue pup, Oatchi is a steadfast companion that can provide support both by attacking creatures or carrying items alongside the Pikmin. Eventually, the puppy will also become a dependable transport option for both player and Pikmin.
New skills are learned using Pup Drive, a currency accrued by rescuing Castaways. Most skills have three different levels, and here's what Pup Drive can be spent on:
Rescue Training Skill | What Can They Do? |
|---|---|
Buff | The base skill lets Oatchi move things with the strength of three Pikmin. At level 2, that becomes the strength of five Pikmin, while level 3 increases the strength to 10 Pikmin. |
Super Buff | Unlocked after maxing out Buff, Super Buff will enable Oatchi to possess the strength of 20, 30, and 100 Pikmin with each level. |
Swallow | Learned from Captain Olimar after he's rescued, Oatchi is now able to swallow and transport items, making the process easier. |
Chomp | The base attack of Oatchi, each level for Chomp will make its attack more powerful. For example, the third level of Chomp makes it possible to bring down a Pellet Posy with one bite. |
Big Chomp | Available only after mastering Chomp, the first level of Big Chomp enables Oatchi to attack airborne enemies. The rest enhances the attacking power of the attack. |
Rush | A base skill that can be used to break and knock down objects, putting in the work shortens the charging time and increases the impact. |
Mega Rush | Unlocked after mastering Rush, the first level of Mega Rush makes it possible to stun enemies. The subsequent levels increase the potency of the attack. |
Doggy Paddle | As the story progresses, Oatchi will learn how to swim in water and can help transport Pikmin on its back. Level 2 sees the puppy swim faster, and level 3 allows Oatchi to dive and retrieve items in the water. |
Jump | A base skill, Oatchi is able to carry the player on its back and jump over small ledges. |
Pluck | A skill that sees Oatchi help pluck Pikmin sprouts along with the player, each upgrade increases its speed. |
Dig | Learning Dig will let the rescue pup dig up objects from the ground, and at its final level, Oatchi is even more proficient than Yellow Pikmin. |
Heal | Upgrading Heal will ensure the furry companion recovers much quicker when hurt in combat. |
Command | The first level of Command lets Oatchi distinguish scents to help search for things like Castaways, treasure, and rare Pikmin. Level 2 brings commands to head to base, go to a specific spot, or come to the player. Lastly, the final level lets Oatchi gather Pikmin to the player's location. |
Once players have pumped in all the required Pup Drive and mastered all of the skills available, there is also the matter of the Legendary Skill that can be learned.
Oatchi's Ultimate Skill
Talking to Captain Shepherd after learning and maxing out the skills above will see her share about the Shephard Way. This comes in the form of the final skill for Oatchi, Infinite Rush.
For the price of eight Pup Drive, players can unlock unlimited stamina for Oatchi, allowing the rescue pup to use Rush forever. This can make exploration much quicker, while helping to smash through all the weaker enemies.
In any case, a fully powered-up Oatchi will make life in Pikmin 4 that much easier and shorten the time needed to beat the game.
