Pokémon Go developer Niantic releasing new Pikmin AR game, Pikmin Bloom

Pikmin BloomA new app for augmented reality from Nintendo Pokémon GoCreator Niantic will be available on mobile devices beginning Tuesday. The new app will be released in Australia and Singapore first, and will roll out globally over the coming days on Apple’s App Store and the Google Play Store, according to a news release. The app will be free to download.

“For both me and everyone at Niantic, helping this app take shape has been a new experience and lots of fun,” Shigeru Miyamoto said in a new trailer for the game. “My hope is that everyone will be able to create lasting memories together with Pikmin.“

This app brings colorful, insect-like Pikmin along with real-world AR technology. By doing this, it aims to “spice up” banal commutes like going to the park or to the grocery store by allowing you to interact with your Pikmin.

Pikmin mainline console games include a variety of strategy games in which you can grow and manage groups of Pikmin, much like an army. This app takes a more peaceful approach and doesn’t involve fighting other creatures. This app is available in English. Pikmin Bloom Pikmin grow naturally as you move, and then you can pluck them. You can make more Pikmin friends the further you walk.

Image by Niantic/Nintendo

Your Pikmin can also walk with you and leave a trail full of flowers for your Pikmin to pick up items. Although there aren’t any new Pikmin, they will still collect outfits they like. When they gather certain items such as fruits, they can be used to feed their Pikmin. Feeding them will then cause flowers to bloom on their heads that you can use to plant even more flowers on your walk — allowing you and others to plant virtual gardens all throughout your city.

You can still work with trainers. Pokémon GoYou can also use the app to compete with your friends and take over gyms on behalf of your team. Pikmin Flowers won’t have you picking any teams and aims to be more collaborative. You will plant plants with other players and face challenges that can help you earn rewards.

Image by Niantic/Nintendo

Pikmin bloomis more about celebrating ordinary memories. The journal will allow you to take stock of your day and reflect upon it. The app allows you to track your steps each day and generates a journal entry. You can add photos or create an entry.