Niantic and Nintendo announce Pikmin mobile app designed to make walking more fun

Pokemon GO developer Niantic and Nintendo have announced a partnership to jointly develop mobile apps that combine Niantic’s real-world augmented reality technology with Nintendo characters, the companies announced. The first title in development is based on the Pikmin franchise, with gameplay activities designed to encourage walking and make it more enjoyable.

The Pikmin app will be published by Niantic as the first title created by Niantic Tokyo Studio, which was established in April 2018, and launch later in 2021.

“As we continue to expand our games portfolio, it was a natural next step to team up with Nintendo,” Niantic CEO John Hanke said in a press release. “We’re looking forward to shaping the future of AR together, bringing Nintendo’s beloved game characters to life for mobile game players around the world.”

Nintendo representative director Shigeru Miyamoto added, “Niantic’s augmented reality technology has made it possible for us to experience the world as if Pikmin are secretly living all around us. Based on the theme of making walking fun, our mission is to provide people a new experience that’s different from traditional games. We hope that the Pikmin and this app will become a partner in your life.”

Pre-registration is available at the Niantic Labs website.