Pikmin 3 Adds New Characters and GamePad Functionality

The Nintendo Direct has let loose with new information about the upcoming Wii U game, Pikmin 3. Olimar won't be returning (he's presumably training up for the new Super Smash Bros. title), but we'll be getting three new heroes instead.

Joining the Nintendo family of heroes are Alph, Charlie, and Brittany. These three come from the Planet Koppai, which is experiencing a severe shortage of food. They are tasked with gathering up new fruits, with the help of the friendly Pikmin, in order to bring back seeds to their home planet and grow a new source of sustenance for their people.

While players can use the Pikmin to aid in the adventure, they can also take advantage of the Wii U's GamePad, which will act as a device called the KopPad. With this handy instrument, players can view the whole map and see what each character is doing. They can use it to control Alph, Charlie, and Brittany, as well as run through a replay of the events of any given day, complete with charts full of stats.

The game also supports off-TV play, so players can command Pikmin while exploring their own homes. Check out the screenshots below and let us know what you think of the new Pikmin.