Editing Cavern for a King

{{game icons|p4=y}}
{{infobox cave
|image     = P4 Voyage Log Louie 19.png
|size      = 270px
|caption   = 
|location  = Primordial Thicket
|sublevels = 20
|rescues   = 1
|treasures = 48
|onions    = 0
|suggested = {{icon|Blue Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|Purple Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|White Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}}
|wild      = {{icon|Red Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|Yellow Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|Blue Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|Ice Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|Purple Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}} {{icon|White Pikmin|v=P4 HUD}}
}}
{{guide}}
The '''Cavern for a King''' is a [[cave]] in the [[Primordial Thicket]] in {{p4}}. It is considered the game's final cave, due to it having a staggering twenty sublevels (the most of any cave in the series) as well as containing the game's final [[boss]]. It also features encounters with previous bosses, such as the [[Gildemander]] and features new encounters as well, such as the [[Toxstool]] (who is exclusive to the cave). This cave has {{sparklium|p4|2,935}} worth of treasure.

This cave contains six different types of [[Candypop Bud]]s, which would in theory allow all types of Pikmin to be in the player's squad at once, should other types of Pikmin be brought in to begin with. However, the game specifically prevents this from happening by changing the color of any Candypop Buds that would produce a seventh type of Pikmin. Buds are changed to Ice by default, White if Ice would also be a seventh color, and Purple if both those options are invalid. Glow Pikmin do not count for how many types are active at a time. It is likely this rule applies to all Candypop Buds in the game, though it can only be observed in this cave.

{{spoiler section|
Initially, the entrance to this cave is hidden by a massive boulder at the very north of the Primordial Thicket. Once [[Nelle]] has been rescued and later talked to at the [[Rescue Command Post]], the boulder will be gone and the cave will be available.

The final sublevel contains [[Louie]] riding atop the [[Ancient Sirehound]]. As there is no exit on visits prior to defeating the boss, defeating the boss and rescuing Louie will immediately have the player leave the cave. After which, the player will be given the option to finish the current day in the Primordial Thicket or end the day. Doing either will start the game's ending cutscene.
|the final boss of ''Pikmin 4''
}}

== How to reach ==
Before the cave can be accessed at all, the player must win [[Final Battle]], rescue [[Nelle]] and return to the Primordial Thicket on a later [[day]].

The cave is guarded by [[Bogswallow]]s and has [[mud]] areas where [[Oatchi]] and the player's Pikmin can drown, which would be detrimental for their army. There is a barely-visible walkable pathway through the mud, or 30 [[Ice Pikmin]] or an [[Ice Blast]] can be used to freeze the entire pool along with the Bogswallows inside.

== Notes ==
=== Louie's Voyage Log ===
[[File:P4 Voyage Log Louie 19.png|left|200px]]
{{transcript|Finally tamed that huge dog thing. I’m gonna lie down now for a while in its den. It’s really {{color|deep|darkorange}}, and there are {{color|plenty|darkorange}} of snacks. The others will give up and go home.|block=y}}
{{clear}}

== Sublevel 1 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 1.png|thumb|250px|Map of sublevel 1.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Sticky Jewel|v=P4|y}} (inside Toxstool)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Moldy Dwarf Bulborb|v=P4|y}} &times; 4
** {{icon|Moldy Slooch|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
** {{icon|Toxstool|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Sticky mold|v=P4|y}} (3 posion spotcaps) &times; 2 
** {{icon|Sticky mold|v=P4|y}} (4 posion spotcaps) &times; 2
** {{icon|Poison Spotcap|y|v=P4}} &times; 14 (all inside sticky mold) 
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Toxstool is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 white|y}} (White) &times; 2
* '''Others''':
** None
{{see also|Toxstool#Strategy|t1=Toxstool strategy}}

Bringing the bodies of the [[Moldy Dwarf Bulborb]]s and [[Moldy Slooch]]es back to the [[S.S. Beagle]], or shattering them with [[Ice Pikmin]] or an [[Ice Blast]], will prevent the [[Toxstool]] from resurrecting them. From there, a focused attack from [[White Pikmin]] should be able to dispatch it. If you don’t want to break apart the enemies with [[ice]] attacks, just focus on the [[Toxstool]] for now. 
{{clear}}

== Sublevel 2 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 2.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 2.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Mechanical Harp (Lullabies)|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Uniquely You Goo|v=P4|y}} (inside Jumbo Bulborb)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Dwarf Bulborb|v=P4|y}} &times; 4
** {{icon|Bulborb|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|Jumbo Bulborb|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Bulborb, Jumbo Bulborb, and four Dwarf Bulborbs are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4}} &times; 2
{{see also|Jumbo Bulborb#Strategy|t1=Jumbo Bulborb strategy}}

The [[Jumbo Bulborb]] hides in a bush, so be wary of it when fighting the [[Dwarf Bulborb]]s and the [[Bulborb]]. It is recommended that you go for the Dwarf Bulborbs first, then work your way up. Make sure the room is clear of any stragglers before taking back the [[treasure]]s.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 3 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 3.png|thumb|200px|Map of sublevel 3.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Talisman of Life (Phoenix)|v=P4|y}} (inside one of the Burrowing Snagrets)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Burrowing Snagret|v=P4|y}} &times; 3
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the three Burrowing Snagrets are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4}} &times; 2
{{see also|Burrowing Snagret#Strategy|t1=Burrowing Snagret strategy}}

For the first time in 22 years, it's time for the [[The Forest of Hope|Snagret triple threat]]. It is recommended to try and bait out and defeat each [[Burrowing Snagret]] individually. Prepare to [[rush]] each Snagret's head just as it pops out of the ground, which can deal with a Snagret in just a handful of attack cycles. Only one holds the [[treasure]], also like the original Snagret fight. 

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 4 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 4.png|thumb|250px|Map of sublevel 4.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Orbital Communication Sphere|v=P4|y}} &times; 3 (inside Arctic Cannon Beetle)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Dwarf Orange Bulborb|v=P4|y}} &times; 6
** {{icon|Arctic Cannon Beetle|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Clipboard|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (weight of 20)
** {{icon|Sticky mold|v=P4|y}} (5 poison spotcaps) &times; 1
** {{icon|Poison Spotcap|y|v=P4|l=Spotcap}} &times; 5 (all inside sticky mold)
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Arctic Cannon Beetle is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** {{icon|Geyser|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (plugged)
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** None
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4}} &times; 2
{{see also|Arctic Cannon Beetle#Strategy|t1=Arctic Cannon Beetle strategy}}

The [[Arctic Cannon Beetle]] is placed such that the player will have to constantly dodge its snowballs just to reach it. When they do get close enough to attack, the cramped space it resides in (exacerbated further by the presence of [[sticky mold]]) puts [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] at significant risk of being eaten if they are not [[whistle]]d away as soon as it begins to inhale. Using [[Oatchi]] is recommended to keep the squad together when dodging snowballs. Leading the [[Dwarf Orange Bulborb]]s into snowballs is an effective strategy, as they will die as soon as the snowball breaks.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 5 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 5.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 5.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Tremendous Sniffer|v=P4|y}} (inside one of the Emperor Bulblaxes)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Emperor Bulblax|v=P4|y}} &times; 3
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the three Emperor Bulblaxes are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4 large}} &times; 1
{{see also|Emperor Bulblax#Strategy|t1=Emperor Bulblax strategy}}

While it is theoretically possible to kill each [[Emperor Bulblax]] individually, in practice the roar of one Bulblax will wake up the other two, and on this floor, it will roar as soon as possible. Despite this, the player should try to fight them one at a time rather than spread their [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] thin trying to fight them all at once. Using [[bomb rock|Bomb Rock]]s and [[ultra-spicy spray|Ultra-Spicy Spray]] to dispatch one of the Bulblaxes quickly is a good tactic to avoid one waking the others.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 6 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 6.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 6.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Planetary Rubber Cutie|v=P4|y}} (on floating platform)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Honeywisp|v=P4|y}} x 2
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Hydro jelly|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|Clipboard|y|v=P4}} &times; 1 (weight of 20)
* '''Tools''':
** {{icon|Fan|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
** {{icon|Floating platform|v=P4|y}} &times; 4
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 ice|y|n=Candypop Bud}} (Ice) &times; 2
* '''Others''':
** None

A cutscene plays with [[Louie]] lounging around before escaping further into the cavern. After that, you can collect the [[treasure]] nearby, use the [[Candypop Bud]]s, and get nectar from the [[Honeywisp]]s on this rest sublevel. Once you finish, the player has the option to delve deeper or to leave the cave, as a [[cave exit]] is located on this sublevel.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 7 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 7.png|thumb|250px|Map of sublevel 7.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|S.S. Berry|v=P4|y}} (inside Titan Blowhog)
** {{icon|S.S. Peppermint|v=P4|y}} (inside Blizzarding Blowhog)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Titan Blowhog|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|Blizzarding Blowhog|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Titan Blowhog and Blizzarding Blowhog are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** {{icon|Bouncy Mushroom|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4}} &times; 2
{{see also|Blizzarding Blowhog#Strategy|t1=Blizzarding Blowhog strategy|Titan Blowhog#Strategy|t2=Titan Blowhog strategy}}

The [[Titan Blowhog]] and the [[Blizzarding Blowhog]] have the same abilities as their smaller counterparts, only much bigger and they launch Pikmin much farther. The same strategies should be applied for each: charge your [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] at them, and then [[whistle]] them back when the huge Blowhogs are about to throw them. But if you don't want to fight them, you can do a very easy jump around the [[numbered gate]]. 

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 8 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 8.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 8.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Dapper Blob|v=P4|y}} (inside Crusted Rumpup)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Crusted Rumpup|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Crusted Rumpup is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** None
{{see also|Crusted Rumpup#Strategy|t1=Crusted Rumpup strategy}}

This fight is similar to the one in the [[Serene Shores]], only this time, [[mud]] is involved. Be careful, as the [[Crusted Rumpup]] could launch some [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] into the mud, putting them in peril. However, the Rumpup itself is still the same and can still be easily defeated. Once defeated, the [[numbered gate]] will lower.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 9 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 9.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 9.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Heroic Sword|v=P4|y}} &times; 2 (inside Man-at-Legs)
** {{icon|Bright Sword|v=P4|y}} &times; 2 (inside Man-at-Legs)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Man-at-Legs|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Breakable pot|v=P4|y}} &times; 9 (two groups of 3 pots, one group of 2 pots, one group of 1 pot)
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Man-at-Legs is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 blue|y|n=Candypop Bud}} (Blue) &times; 2
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4 large}} &times; 1
{{see also|Man-at-Legs#Strategy|t1=Man-at-Legs strategy}}

The main battleground is submerged in [[water]], so bringing a sizable amount of [[Blue Pikmin]] is heavily recommended for this fight. Don't break any of the [[breakable pot]]s as they can be used as temporary defense against the [[Man-at-Legs]]. If [[Oatchi]] has [[upgrade]]d his Doggy-Paddle ability, he can comfortably avoid shots from the Man-At-Legs by simply swimming around at the edge of the arena. Otherwise, the starting area of this sublevel provides more than enough cover from fire.

Another method of fighting this [[Man-at-Legs]] is to [[freeze]] the water after activating the boss. The puddle of water will freeze with 50 [[Ice Pikmin]] (one [[Ice blast]] can be used too, but the freeze is only temporary), leaving you the other 50 Pikmin to break the [[boss]] while frozen.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 10 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 10.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 10.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Wayward Moon|v=P4|y}} (inside Smoky Progg)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Smoky Progg|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Smoky Progg is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4 large}} &times; 1
{{see also|Smoky Progg#Strategy|t1=Smoky Progg strategy}}

The [[Smoky Progg]] is significantly easier than how it was in {{P1}}, but can still cause mass [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] casualties if the player is unprepared. A good strategy is to use [[Oatchi]]'s [[rush]] skill to send all of your Pikmin onto it, defeating it quickly. Just be sure to jump to avoid the shockwaves produced by its projectiles, and [[whistle]] after it shakes off your Pikmin to ensure they don't [[panic]] directly into the path of its [[gloom]] or into the [[mud]] surrounding its arena. However, it's possible to break the egg by either using an [[ultra-spicy spray]], the [[Rush Boots]], a [[Oatchi#Rush|rush]] and tight movement{{cite youtube|_oROvjbABxg|of the Smoky Progg's egg being destroyed before it hatches|published={{date|21|August|2023}}|retrieved={{date|24|August|2023}}}}, or by watching the egg breaking [[cutscene]], leaving the cave and coming back.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 11 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 11.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 11.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Neon Goo|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Disk of Sorrowful Wisdom|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Disk of Amusing Wisdom|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Sphere of Desire|v=P4|y}} (attached to fishing rope)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Bloomcap Bloyster|v=P4|y}} &times; 3
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Fishing rope|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (weight of 7)
** {{icon|Iron fence|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the three Bloomcap Bloysters are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 blue|y|n =Candypop Bud}} (Blue) &times; 1
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4 large}}
{{see also|Bloomcap Bloyster#Strategy|t1=Bloomcap Bloyster strategy}}

[[Louie]] appears once again on this sublevel, only to run off. The [[Bloomcap Bloyster]]s will eat any [[treasure]]s they come across in this sublevel, so be sure to check if any of them have eaten a treasure, if the [[Gear#Treasure Gauge|Treasure Gauge]] isn't turning off. It's a good idea to lure the Bloysters out of any [[water]] in the cave, so you can deal with them with a full squad of Pikmin. If you still have [[Ice Pikmin]], you can use them to [[freeze]] a body of water while any Bloomcap Bloysters are in it to get them frozen solid, allowing for easy dispatching.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 12 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 12.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 12.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Unfinished Statue|v=P4|y}}
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Iridescent Glint Beetle|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|White Spectralids|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
** {{icon|Yellow Spectralids|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
** {{icon|Red Spectralids|v=P4|y}} &times; 3
* '''Obstacles''':
** None
* '''Tools''':
** {{icon|Tunnel|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 purple|y|n=Candypop Bud}} (Purple) &times; 2
* '''Others''':
** None
A rest sublevel reminiscent of [[Shower Room#Sublevel 4|the 4th sublevel of the Shower Room]] from {{p2}}. There is a [[cave exit]] to escape to the surface here, if the player is running low on [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]]. If you don’t have many [[Purple Pikmin]], try using the [[Candypop Bud]]s to produce more, for they are very handy for the final [[boss]]. 
{{clear}}

== Sublevel 13 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 13.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 13.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Memory Fragment (Center Right)|v=P4|y}} (inside breakable pot)
** {{icon|Mysterious Carriage|v=P4|y}} (inside Gildemander)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Gildemander|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Sticky mold|v=P4|y}} (6 poison spotcaps) &times; 2
** {{icon|Sticky mold|v=P4|y}} (2 posion spotcaps) &times; 1
** {{icon|Poison emitter|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
** {{icon|Breakable pot|v=P4|y}} &times; 2 (1 group of 2)
** {{icon|Poison Spotcap|y|v=P4|l=Spotcap}} &times; 14 (all connected to sticky mold)
** {{icon|Numbered gate|y|v=P4}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Gildemander is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 white|y|n=Candypop Bud}} (White) &times; 1
* '''Others''':
** None
{{see also|Gildemander#Strategy|t1=Gildemander strategy}}

This room is very cramped, so it is recommended to use [[Oatchi]] or a small group of [[White Pikmin]] to clear the [[sticky mold]] before engaging with the [[boss]]. Try to lead the [[Gildemander]] away from the walls, as the gold that is knocked off its back may land in a spot where it is hard to destroy. It is highly recommended to clear the sticky mold before engaging in combat with the boss, for your [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] will go for the mold first. 

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 14 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 14.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 14.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Foolish Fruit|v=P4|y}} (inside Horned Cannon Beetle)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Horned Cannon Beetle|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|Armored Cannon Larva|v=P4|y}} &times; 3
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Horned Cannon Beetle and the three Armored Cannon Larva are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4 large}} &times; 1
{{see also|Horned Cannon Beetle#Strategy|t1=Horned Cannon Beetle strategy}}

Take down the [[Armored Cannon Larva]] before dealing with the main [[boss]] of this sublevel. Be wary of their unusual boulder paths, which curve around the arena. A fairly useful strategy is to position yourself behind an Armored Cannon Larva so that the [[Horned Cannon Beetle]]'s boulder rolls towards it and defeats it in one hit. Alternatively, you can lead the Armored Cannon Larva's boulders into the Horned Cannon Beetle, dealing damage to it even when its shell is closed.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 15 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 15.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 15.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Trap Lid|v=P4|y}} &times; 10 (all inside Baldy Long Legs)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Baldy Long Legs|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Water spout|y|v=P4}} &times; 3
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Baldy Long Legs is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 blue|y}} (Blue) &times; 2
* '''Others''':
** None
{{see also|Baldy Long Legs#Strategy|t1=Baldy Long Legs strategy}}

[[Louie]] shows up before running off yet again in this sublevel. A [[Baldy Long Legs]] stomps between a [[water]]-filled pit and a [[mud]] patch, both of which are surrounded by blocks, so [[Blue Pikmin]] are recommended. Additionally, using ten [[Ice Pikmin]] (if you happen to have any left over) to [[freeze]] the water (or the mud) will also freeze the [[boss]], which can be used to the player's advantage. The mud patch is shallow though, so you don’t need Ice Pikmin. 

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 16 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 16.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 16.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Connection Detector|v=P4|y}} (inside one of the Waterwraiths)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Waterwraith|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
* '''Obstacles''':
**{{icon|Dirt wall|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
**{{icon|Potted plant|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
**{{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the two Waterwraiths are defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 purple|y|n=Candypop Bud}} (Purple) &times; 2
* '''Others''':
** None
{{see also|Waterwraith#Strategy|t1=Waterwraith strategy}}

Two [[Waterwraith]]s spawn almost immediately after entering this sublevel. However, they do not pose much threat if the player brought [[Purple Pikmin]]. If they did not, there are Purple [[Candypop Bud]]s blocked by [[dirt wall]]s available to create some. One of the Waterwraiths holds the [[Connection Detector]]. It is required to defeat both to unlock the path to the next sublevel.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 17 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 17.png|thumb|200px|Map of sublevel 17.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Fire-Breathing Feast|v=P4|y}} (inside Empress Bulblax)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Empress Bulblax|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
** {{icon|Bulborb Larva|v=P4|y}} (group of 10) &times; indefinite amount (created by the Empress Bulblax, when rolling)
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Boulder|y}} (group of 8) &times; indefinite amount (created by the Empress Bulblax, when rolling)
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Empress Bulblax is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** {{icon|Geyser|v=P4|y}} &times; 2
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** None
{{see also|Empress Bulblax#Strategy|t1=Empress Bulblax strategy}}

The [[Empress Bulblax]] on this sublevel occupies a small chamber which, unlike any other encounter with it, means that there is no single place to stand to avoid its rolling attack. Instead, there are two [[geyser]]s which shoot you to the opposite sides of the arena and a small passage in the back. The intended method is to use these to jump over the top of the [[boss]] or to slip behind it before making your way back to the arena, but it is far easier to use six or so [[Bomb Rock]]s and finish the job before it can even attack. Don't [[rush]] with [[Oatchi]] as that triggers its roll attack immediately.  Alternatively, [[Rock Pikmin]] can be used for their immunity to being [[crush]]ed against the soft floor of the sublevel. Be careful though, as other [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] can be crushed by its rolling attack as well as the boulders that spawn after it hits the wall. Rock Pikmin can also be eaten by the [[Bulborb Larva]]e that fall from the ceiling, so be careful of those as well.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 18 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 18.png|thumb|200px|Map of sublevel 18.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Don't-See-It Specs|v=P4|y}} (inside Sovereign Bulblax)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Sovereign Bulblax|v=P4|y}} &times; 1
* '''Obstacles''':
** {{icon|Numbered gate|v=P4|y}} &times; 1 (lowers after the Sovereign Bulblax is defeated)
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4 blue|y|n=Candypop Bud}} (Blue) &times; 3
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Egg|y|v=P4 large}} &times; 1
{{see also|Sovereign Bulblax#Strategy|t1=Sovereign Bulblax strategy}}

The [[Sovereign Bulblax]]'s arena is unique in that it can be changed during the fight. The boss's [[crushing]] slam and jump attack (as well as the boulders that come crashing down after it lands) can deform the landscape, which can create small pools of [[water]]. For this reason, using [[Bomb Rock]]s and [[Ultra-Spicy Spray]] to defeat the Bulblax before it can make the arena too hard to navigate is a good strategy. Note that the [[Don't-See-It Specs]] and the Sovereign Bulblax's corpse will need to be carried over or through the small ring of water surrounding the main arena, so use [[Blue Pikmin]] or an [[Ice Blast]] (it takes 50 [[Ice Pikmin]] to freeze the water here), or [[upgrade]] [[Oatchi]]'s super buff to allow him to carry through water.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 19 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 19.png|thumb|300px|Map of sublevel 19.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Cupid's Grenade|v=P4|y}} &times; 3
** {{icon|Zest Bomb|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Blonde Impostor|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Juicy Gaggle|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Sunseed Berry|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Heroine's Tear|v=P4|y}}
** {{icon|Pocked Airhead|v=P4|y}} (buried)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Honeywisp|v=P4|y}} &times; 7
* '''Obstacles''':
** None
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** {{icon|Candypop Bud|v=P4|y|n=Candypop Bud}} &times; 5 (Red, Yellow, Blue, Ice, and White)
* '''Others''':
** None

The penultimate sublevel of this cave is a very forgiving one, with no hostile [[enemies]]. A shallow body of [[water]] contains a few of the [[treasure]]s, so use [[Blue Pikmin]] to retrieve them. It is also recommended to utilize the [[Candypop Bud]]s to create some more [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] types, as they will be very useful in the upcoming sublevel. There is a [[cave exit]] present to escape, and the final sublevel entrance is buried under a pile of sand near the broken green bucket.

{{clear}}

== Sublevel 20 ==
[[File:P4 Map Cavern for a King 20.png|thumb|250px|Map of sublevel 20.]]
* '''Treasures''':
** {{icon|Gift of Friendship|v=P4|y}} (on Ancient Sirehound)
* '''Enemies''':
** {{icon|Ancient Sirehound|v=P4|y}} (Does not return after first defeat)
* '''Obstacles''':
** None
* '''Tools''':
** None
* '''Wild Pikmin''':
** None
* '''Others''':
** {{icon|Castaway|n=Louie|y|v=P4}} &times; 1 (on Ancient Sirehound)
{{see also|Ancient Sirehound#Strategy}}
This sublevel contains a landing area for the [[S.S. Beagle]], and a large arena where [[Louie]] and the [[Ancient Sirehound]] are found. It drops the [[Gift of Friendship]]. The player does not need to actually transport the Gift of Friendship or Louie, as it happens during a cutscene immediately after defeating the Ancient Sirehound. Additionally, on the first visit, this final sublevel contains no [[cave exit]], as the player, [[Oatchi]], and their [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] will use the S.S. Beagle to fly out of the cave instead. On return visits, a cave exit will appear next to the base.

{{clear}}

== Gallery ==
{{image}}
<gallery>
P4 Baldy Long Legs Water CfaK.jpg|The Baldy Long Legs on sublevel 15 while in the watery portion of the arena.
P4 Baldy Long Legs Mud CfaK.jpg|The Baldy Long Legs on sublevel 15 while in the muddy portion of the arena.
P4 Walking Waterwraith.jpg|A Waterwraith with its rollers destroyed on sublevel 16 near the [[S.S. Beagle]].

</gallery>

== Trivia ==
* It's possible that the name of this cave is based on [[Louie]]'s name as a treasure in {{p2}}: [[King of Bugs]]. Louie himself rarely uses the name Cavern for a King however, instead opting for descriptions such as "the dog-thing's den" (in his [[Pikmin 4 voyage log|voyage log]]) or "the giant dog's den" (in his explanation of the sixth Fit for a Feast [[Side Mission]], when requesting a single [[Sovereign Bulblax]]).
* This is the longest cave in any ''Pikmin'' game, beating the [[Hole of Heroes]]'s 15 sublevels by five. It is more than three times as long as the second longest cave in ''Pikmin 4'', which only contains 6 sublevels: the [[Kingdom of Beasts]].
* The skybox of sublevel 19 is the same as [[Blossoming Arcadia]] at night.
* The outside of the arena on sublevel 20 is littered with various objects from various areas of the game. These include:
** Plant pots.
** Wellington boots.
** Bricks.
** Empty metal cans.
** A yellow fork.
** Cardboard takeaway containers.
** Pillows.
** A paper cup.
** Various shoes.
** Toy trains.
** A yellow plastic bucket.
** A toy digger.

== Names in other languages ==
{{foreignname
|Jap  = 王の穴
|JapR = Ō no Ana
|JapM = King's Hole
|ChiTrad  = 王之洞穴
|ChiTradR = Wáng zhī Dòngxué
|ChiTradM = King's Cavern
|ChiSimp  = 王之洞穴
|ChiSimpR = Wáng zhī Dòngxué
|ChiSimpM = King's Cavern
|Dut  = Koningsgrot
|DutM = King's cave
|Fra  = Caverne du roi
|FraM = Cavern of the king
|Ger  = Kaverne des Königs
|GerM = King's Cavern
|Ita  = Caverna regale
|ItaM = Regal cavern
|Kor  = 왕의 굴
|KorR = Wang-ui Gul
|KorM = King's Cave
|Spa  = Caverna del Rey
|SpaM = Cavern of the King
|Por  = Gruta real
|PorM = Royal grotto
}}

== See also ==
*[[Primordial Thicket]]
*[[Ancient Sirehound]]
*[[Louie]]
*[[Dream Den]]
*[[Hole of Heroes]]

== References ==
{{refs}}

{{Primordial Thicket}}
{{p4 caves}}
[[Category:Cavern for a King| ]]