In Pikmin 4, the task falls to the player to rescue the stranded Captain Olimar. And while having vision and wits will help in this endeavor, making full use of the resources at hand is also an important skill to learn. This is where Russ of the Rescue Corps comes in, whose expertise with Raw Materials can lead to some interesting Gear and Items to be purchased in Pikmin 4.
How to Get Gear and Items in Pikmin 4
As mentioned, Russ has to be rescued first before players can think of getting fancy new toys for their adventure in Pikmin 4. Thankfully, he is unmissable as he will be rescued in the first cave in the Sun-Speckled Terrace level.
In addition to the starting offerings, more options will be unlocked with progression through the game.
Best Gear to Get First in Pikmin 4
While players will eventually have enough Raw Materials to purchase everything, there are a few more useful ones to grab first to make life easier when exploring.
Treasure Gauge - 40 Raw Materials
At such a low price, buying this Gear item is a no-brainer. It helps to detect both treasure and Castaways, with its meter filling up the closer players are to either. An upgraded Treasure Gauge+ will even show the total amount of treasures left in a level and the exact locations.
Rush Boots - 120 Raw Materials
While players will likely always travel on or with Oatchi, there will be occasions when they are separated from the rescue pup. In such cases, covering huge distances can take a long time, so having the Rush Boots will reduce traveling time for more efficient exploration.
Idler's Alert - 80 Raw Materials
With multitasking such an important aspect of the Pikmin 4 experience, wasting time trying to gather Pikmin who have completed their task back at the base is not the best way forward. Use the Idler's Alert to summon them for their next task without making an unnecessary trip.
Headlamp - 30 Raw Materials
There are plenty of caves to be explored in Pikmin 4, and it can be dangerous going in blind. Purchasing the Headlamp and its subsequent upgrades ensure that not even the darkest nights can stop the Pikmin.
Best Items to Get First in Pikmin 4
In a pinch, single-use items can also be very helpful out in the wild. Be sure to stock on these before embarking on a fresh day of adventure.
Emergency Kit - 5 Raw Materials
A life-saving item that prevents the player from being knocked out. The Emergency Kit will automatically recover precious health when low HP is detected.
Pikpik Carrot - 2 Raw Materials
Facing the many larger enemies in Pikmin 4 can be a daunting task, so use the Pikpik Carrot to even the odds. Eating the carrot will paralyze enemies, leaving them vulnerable to a rush from Oatchi and the Pikmin.
Bomb Rock - 8 Raw Materials
A surefire way to eliminate all opposition, use the Bomb Rock to blast any enemies standing in the way to smithereens. It also comes into use when faced with reinforced walls.
Ice Blast - 8 Raw Materials
Lacking Ice Pikmin and hoping to freeze creatures? Use the Ice Blast to make that happen in a jiffy, and it can also be used to freeze bodies of water instantly, allowing for travel across the ice.
Pikmin 4 is available for the Switch.