As players begin their adventures in Pikmin 4, there will be more new things to take note of beyond the army of Pikmin that will be gathered. The latest entry in the beloved series sees new additions in gameplay mechanics and level design, and the sooner players can get up to speed with what to expect, the smoother the rescue mission will be.
One of the key components of Pikmin 4 is the arrival of the Rescue Corps' rescue pup, otherwise known as Oatchi. With this furry pal by their side, players will find their options for dealing with obstacles expanded, and its upgradable skills make it even more of a dependable ally in certain situations than the Pikmin themselves. For players hoping to maximize the potential of Oatchi in Pikmin 4, it is paramount to understand just how Pup Drive works.
What is Pup Drive in Pikmin 4?
Essentially, Pup Drive is the currency players can spend to level up the various skills of Oatchi. After rescuing Russ the scientist, returning to Rescue Command will see Captain Shepherd offer to tutor Oatchi in various skills.
There are a total of 13 skills that Oatchi can master, with one more Legendary Skill that only becomes available once everything else is maxed out. Needless to say, a rescue pup at that level will be an invaluable ally in any situation in Pikmin 4.
How to Get More Pup Drive for Oatchi in Pikmin 4
As the game will quickly point out, the best and only way one can get more Pup Drive in Pikmin 4 is by rescuing Castaways. This can be characters central to the plot, such as Captain Shepherd and Olimar, or the many other NPCs that can provide side quests and commentary on the happenings during the mission.
Each rescued Castaway will reward one Pup Drive, so it is in the best interests of everyone involved that all the Castaways found are rescued immediately. This means anyone found both above and underground, held hostage by boss enemies, or even those turned into Leaflings. Completing Dandori Battles and Challenges will enable players to rescue these turned individuals.
While fully curing these individuals will require Night Expeditions and the use of Glow Sap, the moment they are returned to Rescue Command is enough to count. So make full use of the Pup Drive accumulated and start upgrading Oatchi to become a better rescue pup whenever possible.