Best Pikmin version?

[TyrannicalFascist]

I must admit, I never really played Pikmin. In fact, I pretty much overlooked it when it was released on the GameCube.

With Pikmin 3 on the horizon, I've been thinking about rectifying this oversight. I have both a GameCube and a Wii/Wii U. Which version of the 2 Pikmin games does everyone recommend - the original GameCube releases, or the Wii New Play Control versions?

[Blueprint]

I like the original versions of pikmin 2 on the gamecube. not much improvement over on the wii besides the difference in the controller. but since you missed the original released on the gamecube the wii version might be better for you since you have a Wii U as well.

[CrimsonEnigma]

Personally, I found the Wii versions of Pikmin 1 & 2 to be the best:

-The motion controls allow you to do things the original controls couldn't, like throw Pikmin in the opposite direction you're walking.
-The game's save function lets you restart from any day, meaning you won't have to reset the entire game if you fail on day 30 in the first game.
-It's available in 16:9.
-Unlike the GameCube versions, they're compatible with the Wii U.
-GameCube versions of Pikmin 2 still sell for around double the cost of the New Play Control version, even though they can do less.

Aside from an extremely minor sound bug that may have actually been intentional, there's really no reason to get the GameCube versions.

[AO007]

If you want my honest opinion...

Pikmin 1
I heavily recommend going Gamecube for this one. The control scheme, while it works, requires more patience than the gamecube controls, and since you're on a 30 day time limit(Which, in the Wii version, you can turn back the clock), you'll always have the feeling of being rushed, and with the motion-sensitive controls, it really doesn't do you any favors. I just find the Wii version of Pikmin 1 nearly unplayable for those reasons, which is unfortunate as I find the "turn back the clock" feature to be brilliant. Alas.

Pikmin: Gamecube Edition
Pikmin: New Play Control

Pikmin 2
This one, you could definitely go either way, and I actually own both versions. As mentioned before, the Wii control scheme is great for Pikmin, and unlike the original, Pikmin 2 doesn't force a time limit, so you can take your time to learn the controls and enjoy the scenery and such. While you can't turn back the clock like in Pikmin 1 Wii, the fact that you can reset the game in caves without having to get up and press the button yourself is a total godsend... lol. Also, the Wii version of Pikmin 2 was released for $19.99 MSRP, so getting a new copy for $20 shouldn't be a difficult process.
Also, a minor nitpick, but I find the packaging for the Wii version to be so much more beautiful than the Gamecube packaging.

Pikmin 2: Gamecube Edition (Wow, less than $30 for a used copy is a godsend now... used to go for above MSRP)
Pikmin 2 Nintendo Selects

So, in conclusion, get Pikmin 1 on Gamecube, and Pikmin 2 on Wii. The fact that the Wii version of Pikmin 2 will be playable on Wii-U is a definite bonus, and a good way to get accustomed to what will be the control scheme for Pikmin 3(It's the reason why I got the Wii version despite owning the Gamecube version)

[AO007]

-GameCube versions of Pikmin 2 still sell for around double the cost of the New Play Control version, even though they can do less.

There is currently an offer on Amazon for $24.99+$3.99 shipping for a "Like New" used copy of Pikmin 2 for Gamecube. Wii versions are going for $15-$20, so not double, but the gamecube version is becoming more reasonably priced as time goes on... makes me happy that the Pikmin games will be more accessable for more people.