Pikmin 3's Japanese box art has popped up in NeoGAF, revealing the game will have online leaderboards, among other details.
First off, the game will render in 720p, but can output to as high as 1080p.In regards to Nintendo Network features, it will have both an online leaderboard and Miiverse functionality. It confirms the game will be playable via Gamepad, Pro Controller or Wiimote and Nunchuk, and 5.1 stereo sound.
Nintendo earlier confirmed that due to technical issues they were not able to overcome, the game was not going to get online multiplayer. As a consequence, development was focused on improving local multiplayer instead. Now, the addition of online leaderboards to Miiverse functionality means that there will still be some more online connectivity for the game.
The box art also reveals that White and Purple Pikmin will only be available in multiplayer, highlighting differentiation between it and prior installments. This version introduces two new types of Pikmin with unique abilities: Rock Pikmin and Flying Pikmin.
On the side, notoriously severe Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu has released the first score to come out for Pikmin 3: a solid 37 out of 40. It breaks down to three 9s and one 10 out of 10.
As expected, Pikmin 3 is a Nintendo game to the core. Its production values go through the roof, but the game also has all these little drawbacks and issues that turn many people off, but don't negate the game's quality. Pikmin is particularly more niche than other franchises, but Miyamoto is hopeful to widen the game's market base with this one.
You can read more about Miyamoto's design choices for Pikmin 3 here.
