Editing Music in Pikmin

{{page title| Music in ''Pikmin''}}
{{game icons|p=y}}
The '''music''' of {{p1}} accompanies every aspect of the game, from the gameplay to the [[cutscene]]s and [[menu]]s. Generally, the textural style of the music reflects the futuristic world of [[Hocotate]], the organic environment of [[PNF-404]], and/or the small scale and nature of the [[Pikmin family|Pikmin]] themselves, by varying instrumentation, register, and rigidity of rhythm. During gameplay, the music sets the mood of the area and dynamically adapts its intensity according to what is happening on-screen, albeit to a lesser degree than the following games in the [[Pikmin series|series]]. During cutscenes, the music is predetermined and functions more linearly and punctually. While all of the music in ''Pikmin'' is melodically driven, no established melodic gestures seem to become motifs; that is, none of the soundtrack's unique melodies (besides perhaps the main theme's melodic gesture) become more important to the game than the rest, unless the melody is heard over most of the 30 [[Day|days]].

The soundtrack to ''Pikmin'' was composed by Hajime Wakai. All of the compositions in the game are either synthesized sounds or samples attempting to mimic real instruments. The majority of these are sampled from the [[Assets used in the Pikmin series#Kurzweil K2500|Kurzweil K2500]] and [[Assets used in the Pikmin series#Roland SC-88|Roland SC-88]] synthesizers.

''Pikmin'''s soundtrack was also released on CD under the title ''[[Pikmin World]]''. This official release features some minor changes to the music, including differences in mixing, instrument attenuation, and sample quality. Instances of the soundtrack being used outside of the ''Pikmin'' series, such as the [[Super Smash Bros. Brawl#Music|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]], always use the enhanced music from ''Pikmin World''.

== Menus ==
The menu themes of the game are generally shorter in length; whether or not the composition evolves complexly or remains a background piece depends on how often the menu will probably be visited during play.

{{infobox track
|name = Main Theme
|official = y
|jpname = ''{{j|ピクミン|Pikumin}}''
|internal=jungle.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNgU3gRC_WY&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=1
|header = y
}}
The main theme of ''Pikmin'', heard on the [[title screen]] and some menus accessed from it. This menu is not visited very often during a playthrough, so the percussion is soft-spoken and an instrument resembling a Native American bass flute is not extremely prominent. Eventually, the flute does play the five-note figure (D B♭ E♭ D B♭) that becomes the main motif of the series, but this is only heard if the menu is left running. Without pressing a button, the main theme will not finish before [[Cutscene#Attraction mode|attraction mode]] begins. The distinct whirling audio sample in the background is the sound of a cranked {{w|Lion's roar (instrument)|lion's roar}}. 

In {{ssbb}}, this song is titled ''"Main Theme"''.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Level Select
|jpname = ''{{j|航海日誌を選ぶ|Kōkai nisshi o erabu}}''
|internal=select.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGDEttj1IUs&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=3
|header = y
}}
Heard while [[saved game selection menu|selecting a save file]]. This theme is heavily synthesized, to enhance the theme of recording and storing [[saved game]]s. Its simple melody is chosen from one diatonic scale and hidden under softened sound effects, such that it does not distract from the file select menu itself.

{{clear}}
{{infobox track
|name = View
|jpname = ''{{j|全景|Zenkei}}''
|internal=map.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_Wu6L-QhnM&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=5
|header = y
}}
Heard while [[area selection menu|selecting an area]] at the beginning of a new [[day]]. This highly recognizable theme does not develop its natural-sounding melody before an [[area]] would presumably be chosen, leaving the normal time spent in this menu to be split between a synthesized pad at the beginning and trills in a flute and celeste later on. The melody comes much later in the track, yet is one of the strongest melodies in the game.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Challenge Mode
|jpname = ''{{j|レッツチャレンジ|Rettsu charenji}}''
|internal=char.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h06n4MYdwTQ&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=38
|header = y
}}
Heard in the [[Challenge Mode menu]]. This theme contains a more agile melody than the file select music, and it shines throughout the piece, even in a call-and-response pattern. The beat is more pronounced and the instruments all have more clout, to give [[Challenge Mode (Pikmin)|this mode]]'s menu more excitement than the main game's.

In ''Pikmin World'', the release on the sync synthesizer lead is much shorter compared to the in-game version.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Results
|jpname = ''{{j|チャレンジ結果発表|Charenji kekka happyō}}''
|internal=cresult.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mfr5rpJEOQ&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=39
|header = y
}}
Heard [[Challenge results menu|after a Challenge Mode challenge]]. This theme matches the excitement of the original menu, if not surpassing it by adding a rock drum kit to the mix. The track is still local to Challenge Mode however: the main melody is played on the same synthesizer that played the other menu's theme.

In ''Pikmin World'', the release on the sync synthesizer lead and piccolo is much shorter compared to the in-game version.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Today's Results
|jpname = ''{{j|今日の記録|Kyō no kiroku}}''
|internal=d_end2.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7xvU0u3BB8&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=23
|header = y
}}
Heard [[Day results menu|after the day is complete]] and the [[S.S. Dolphin]] has taken off. This theme was carried over to other games. All the instruments are intended to sound synthesized; at this point the game's referential environment has switched from the natural ground to the S.S. Dolphin in low orbit. Also, the beep-like tone that arpeggiates throughout the theme is a sound unique to {{p1}}, which can be heard in other tracks, normally associated with the S.S. Dolphin.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Journey Complete
|jpname = ''{{j|遭難の全記録|Sōnan no zen kiroku}}''
|internal=fresult.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-93lVgP9t-k&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=35
|header = y
}}
Heard after the [[Pikmin (game)#Endings|good ending]] cinema when the [[Final results menu|final statistics]] appear. This theme represents success in its orchestral instrumentation, and its rhythm is rigidly defined by snare drum and timpani. This is the most harmonically driven theme in the game; no instrument's voice exists alone.

{{clear}}

== Cutscenes ==
Cutscenes are pre-timed, and player input does not change the cutscene (other than skipping it). As such, the music is a score, accenting and controlling the evolution of what in the cutscene the player should focus on. 

Since the game runs at a slower [[frame]]rate in the European [[Region|version]], the music for numerous cutscenes has been modified and extended in order to better match the increased runtime. These differences will also be noted below each song, if any are present.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Carry, Fight, Increase and be Eaten
|jpname = ''{{j|運ぶ、戦う、増える、そして食べられる|Hakobu, tatakau, fueru, soshite taberareru}}''
|internal=cntA_S.h4m cntB_S.h4m cntC_S.h4m cntD_S.h4m
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPbLlAW5Mpw&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=2
|header = y
}}
Heard during the [[Cutscene#Attraction mode|attraction mode]] when the title screen is left idle long enough. This quaint waltz accompanies the demonstrations of how to play [[Pikmin (game)|''Pikmin'']]. Its simple but stimulating string section drive the piece; the melody on glockenspiel and organ uses mainly small intervals, to address both the small scale of the game and the simplicity of the short pre-rendered cutscenes.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Prologue
|jpname = ''{{j|プロローグ|Purorōgu}}''
|internal=opening.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sECcWOCGjF4&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=4
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/8/81/Opening_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard after beginning a new game, accompanying the [[Cutscene#Opening|prologue cutscene]]. This eclectic soundtrack begins in space, with synthesized drones and patterns gravitating around C to set the mood that the protagonist of the game is from an alien planet. [[Captain Olimar]]'s idling ship seems to produce a small hi-pass waltz in D♭, almost as though he is listening to a radio. This hint of D♭ resounds in a dramatic string section when a passing meteor approaches; the strings quiet down as the scene cuts back to the [[S.S. Dolphin]], but the drone of C gets more intense as hand percussion and an alarm sound effect join in. Finally as the meteor strikes the ship a cymbal roll and a leaping gesture on marimba and pizzicato strings warp the previous ethereal drone into chaos. The strings descend across stinging triads far from C as the ship plummets to [[PNF-404]]. Finally as the camera cuts to the sky and ground another cymbal roll changes the tempo and genre to an orchestral rock beat in D minor with another alarm sound overlay. The drums and orchestra simultaneously cut out to a residual ring when the ship crashes; as the entire cutscene has no sound effects on its own, this sudden {{w|tacet}} during the expected sound of a crash landing produces a wholly suspenseful effect, only to be resolved when the first [[day]] begins.

In the European version of the game, this song initially runs at a slower tempo, lengthening several synthesized sound effects in the process. The rock beat runs at its original speed, but the build up on strings becomes much more increasingly intense, as this portion of the song has to loop several more times before the cutscene's conclusion.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Discovery of Onion
|jpname = ''{{j|オニヨン発見!|Oniyon hakken!}}''
|internal=onion.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9iqRFcEDqU&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=16
|header = y
}}
Heard when Captain Olimar discovers a new type of [[Onion]]. This very playful theme on piano, oboe and marimba compliments the playful look and behavior of the Onion as it rises out of the ground to produce a Pikmin seed.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Meet the Pikmin
|jpname = ''{{j|出逢い|Deai}}''
|internal=demobgm.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRHW_5TXzNY&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=17
|linke = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxV1wnY9-2Y
|header = y
}}
Heard when Captain Olimar plucks a new type of Pikmin. This theme stresses curiosity, by way of a transposed melody. That is, the marimba establishes a key of G major, while the exotic synthesizer playing the melody is playing in A♭, making the theme not dissonant but odd. The perfect mood set for a player who did not expect a Pikmin to be plucked from the ground.

In the European version of the game, this theme is extended with an extra segment of the synthesizer ascending onto C before the melody begins.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Finding of Parts
|jpname = ''{{j|宇宙船パーツ発見!|Uchūsen pātsu hakken!}}''
|internal=demobgm.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awBfRDmw6EM&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=18
|linke = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnnURqYHzTA
|header = y
}}
Heard when Captain Olimar discovers the [[Main Engine]]. Triumphantly ringing through flute, piccolo, vibraphone, french horn, and two synthesized sounds used in the [[#Today's Results|Today's results]] theme, this short scalar melody aids both the understanding of how Pikmin can help and of how [[ship parts]] are important.

In the European version of the game, the first note of the melody is held for a much longer period of time.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Spaceship Part Obtained
|jpname = ''{{j|宇宙船パーツ回収成功!|Uchūsen pātsu kaishū seikō!}}''
|internal=demobgm.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8fx6RQ9D7w&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=19
|header = y
}}
Heard when any ship part is returned to the S.S. Dolphin. The main focus of this jingle is the mechanical look of the S.S. Dolphin, achieved through a very rigid and simple rhythm and mechanical sounding percussion. All the while, the theme is undeniably major and celebrates the recovery of the part.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Power-Up!
|jpname = ''{{j|宇宙船パワーアップ!|Uchūsen pawāappu!}}''
|internal=demobgm.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrSIMoFLYpQ&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=20
|header = y
}}
Heard when the S.S. Dolphin acquires enough parts to increase its capabilities and reach a new [[area]] of the game. This theme is a march with full strings and horns, along with high beep-like synthesized instruments filling up the top range of the melody. It partly accents the S.S. Dolphin fixing itself, and partly celebrates Captain Olimar's leadership in directing Pikmin. After the march is a much less intense loop that keeps the mood hopeful as [[Olimar's monologs#Recovered the engine|Captain Olimar monologs]] about his ship lifting off. This loop only occurs during the initial Dolphin upgrade after the Main Engine is recovered; otherwise the cutscene ends after the march.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Level Complete
|jpname = ''{{j|宇宙船完成!|Uchūsen kansei!}}''
|internal=demobgm.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_Cb-dELF90&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=28
|header = y
}}
Heard when the [[Secret Safe]] is returned to the S.S. Dolphin, meaning all 30 parts have been recovered. This theme begins in C major like the usual Dolphin upgrade march, but immediately turns much more triumphant, with every instrument in the orchestra and synthesizers contributing to the rhythm. Much like the end of a finale in a classical symphony, the entire orchestra ends on uplifting hits of its original key, calling and responding between C major and F major/C while a piccolo trills on top. The very end has cellos, basses, and an impossibly low bass extension of a marimba play C, G, C, G, C while slowing down; this is very reminiscent of the timpani gesture in Richard Strauss's [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rzDXNQxjHs ''Also Sprach Zarathustra''], most widely associated with the film {{w|2001: A Space Odyssey (film)|''2001: A Space Odyssey''}}. The very beginning of the [[#Prologue|Prologue cutscene]], with a background of deep space and a drone in C, may also be a reference to this piece and film.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Night Comes
|jpname = ''{{j|夜が来る|Yorugakuru}}''
|internal=d_end1.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb-FxCI8q78&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=22
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/c/cb/D_end1_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard when a [[day]] ends and Pikmin are returned to their Onions. The tone of this piece is very conclusive, yet also builds enough tension through augmented chords and strong melody that the player eagerly awaits the S.S. Dolphin's liftoff by the end. The reverb in this theme is more prominent and more polished than in other cutscenes, most likely since this theme is to be heard at the end of every day.

In the European version of the game, this song runs at a slower tempo, and gradually slows further right before the conclusion.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = My Mistake
|jpname = ''{{j|私のミスで…|Watashi no misu de…}}''
|internal=d_end3.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sWrVZ8q5uU&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=25
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/e/eb/D_end3_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard when Captain Olimar is returning to the S.S. Dolphin at night, after having his [[spacesuit]] sustain too much damage, or when [[Pikmin extinction|all Pikmin are lost]]. This sad chord progression sweeps through a full string section, with help from a gesture in horns and in vibraphone. Before this theme plays during a Pikmin extinction, a [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWW_1w_f3S8&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=25 low diminished chord in the strings] lingers while Captain Olimar agonizes over the loss. Out of context, such a sound would probably sound melodramatic, or even operatic. But in this situation, the chord suits the gravity of losing all one's Pikmin very well.

In the European version of the game, there is an additional chord progression on strings that leads into F minor, before the melody begins.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = End of Day
|jpname = ''{{j|時間切れ、いちかばちか宇宙へ…|Jikangire, ichi kaba Chika uchū e…}}''
|internal=badend0.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXlDU2jpius&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=29
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/a/a3/Badend0_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Plays when the S.S. Dolphin departs after day 30 with all mandatory ship parts but without all 30 ship parts. Flute, strings, vibraphone, marimba, and piano reprise the theme of the Sunset cutscene, with a more conclusive air and a slower tempo, although this reprise does not play the final note. Instead, the scene cuts to three curious Pikmin watching the S.S. Dolphin depart, and the music changes to a progression of loosely connected major and minor chords that sum into a feeling that the events portrayed are not the end of the story. The following cutscene uses the Epilogue theme.

In the European version of the game, there is an extra repetition of the D♭ major and C major chords.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Escape & Fail
|jpname = ''{{j|脱出、そして墜落…|Dasshutsu, soshite tsuiraku…}}''
|internal=badend1.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S27dgk9KdHY&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=30
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/b/b7/Badend1_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard when the S.S. Dolphin departs after day 30 without all mandatory ship parts. The beginning of the cutscene is the same as the Epilogue theme, but this theme is heard when the S.S. Dolphin is shown trying to escape the atmosphere. The theme begins the same way as the successful theme, but synthesized chromatic noises, again resembling alarms, intervene as the S.S. Dolphin slows its ascent. Finally the apex of the Dolphin's flight is accented by a dissonant synthesized glissando, after which all music cuts out and the ship falls.

In the European version of the game, this theme runs at a slower tempo.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Live as a Pikmin
|jpname = ''{{j|ピクミンとして生きる|Pikumin to shite ikiru}}''
|internal=badend2.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCltJXtzRFs&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=31
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/8/86/Badend2_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard after the final analysis of the [[Cutscene#Bad ending|bad ending]]. This bouncy theme sets a mood of failure and the request to try again more than it predicts the fate of Captain Olimar. A piano and some comical instruments play a frivolous tune, passively complemented with the motivic Native American bass flute from the game's main theme. Xylophone and marimba descend the chromatic scale as [[Olimar as Pikmin|Olimar as a Pikmin]] descends from the Onion. Then, the main motif of the game resurfaces in flute and trombone with a very jocular feel, before resolving and ending with Olimar planted in the ground. This theme's joyous mood helps indicate that this ending is roughly a joke, and not to be considered the serious, canon ending.

In the European version of the game, there is an additional snare roll before the chromatic descension. Strangely, the reverb is also missing.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Chapter Complete
|jpname = ''{{j|宇宙船完成、いざ宇宙へ!|Uchūsen kansei, iza uchū e!}}''
|internal=compend0.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adxopIVoL0E&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=33
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/9/9d/Compend0_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard after the S.S. Dolphin is completely repaired. The Sunset theme is reprised, more closely in instrumentation than the neutral departure, but veers off-course and elongates as Captain Olimar addresses a goodbye to the confused Pikmin one last time. The augmented conclusion of the theme still occurs when Olimar enters the Dolphin, and the D♭ major 7 chord on which it ends is extended back to the Pikmin as they attack a [[Bulborb|Spotty Bulborb]]. As they latch on, the theme cleverly combines both the beginning of the Sunset theme and the melody and piano of The Final Trial theme, until the final pan upward to the sky.

In the European version of the game, this theme initially runs at a much slower tempo, but returns to its original pace as soon as The Final Trial's theme begins to play, since area themes in this version still play at their original speed. The gesture played by the piano during this segment still needs to repeat an additional two times, however.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Escape to Hocotate
|jpname = ''{{j|脱出、そしてホコタテ星へ|Dasshutsu, soshite hokotate hoshi e}}''
|internal=compend1.stx happyend1.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaALVU-ypPc&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=35
|linke = https://pikmintkb.com/w/images/3/3a/Compend1_%28EU_Mix%29.wav
|header = y
}}
Heard after a happy or neutral departure. A full orchestra (the most instruments of any track) flourishes over this grandiose theme, which eventually contains the rhythmic motif of the game's main theme. The final iteration of this motif ends in a held A major chord and timpani roll, with a final hit and cymbal crash to see Captain Olimar off. If the player is successful in leaving the planet, but does not have all 30 ship parts, a [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5Ucl1L4hgc&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=33 shorter version] of this theme plays.

In the European version of the game, both the happy and neutral version run at a slower tempo.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Enemy Reel
|jpname = ''{{j|生物の全記録|Seibutsu no zen kiroku}}''
|internal=srhp_S.h4m
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAjsFcNhDCE&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=37
|header = y
}}
Heard after the Epilogue, during the [[enemy reel]]. A marching band and strings play this playful and memorable theme, with a square-wave synthesizer mainly taking the melody. The marching band also contains a samba whistle, referencing the [[whistle]] in the game. This piece has one major tonal theme that repeats for most of its duration, although it has instances of variations:
*a bridge (heard at 1:07) in which the melodic instrument becomes melodic, and a minor turn of a melody is played by glockenspiel and marimba playing {{w|tremolo}}.
*a march (heard at 2:20) whose structure resembles a sea shanty; a Pikmin can be heard singing along to the synthesized melody. This Pikmin singer returns at the very end, carrying the melody alone, above marching percussion.
This is the longest piece in the soundtrack.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Credits
|jpname = ''{{j|この旅を演出した者達|Kono tabi o enshutsu shita-sha-tachi}}''
|internal=sr_S.h4m
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gkxBuhJ3PY&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=36
|header = y
}}
Heard after the completion of the main game. The credits theme sounds rather different from any other track in the soundtrack; it is more meant to present the development team than to reference the story, since the story is complete. The ballad-esque waltz is founded on a simple rhythmic figure, repeated in piano and elaborated by strings and woodwinds. Eventually an electronic beat joins in, and carries the rhythm until a {{w|Tempo#Terms for change in tempo|ritardando}} late in the piece that signals a repetition of the beginning and then the smooth end.

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== Areas ==
The [[area]]s in [[Pikmin (game)|''Pikmin'']] all have memorable dynamic themes that set the mood for daily exploration. The themes are generally calm and meant to be background to the gameplay, but they will add extra instruments to heighten the intensity of the music whenever Captain Olimar is near an [[enemy]]. All area themes also have versions that play when the day is close to ending, normally using softer sounds and less intense instruments. The battle mix can still be added to these versions, however. Each area has a unique instrumentation for its theme and variations.

In [[Challenge Mode (Pikmin)|Challenge Mode]], all area themes undergo around a 20% increase in tempo to stress the added urgency of having one day to cultivate Pikmin.

The emboldened instruments in this section's tables are the instruments that predominantly carry a melody.

{{clear}}
===''The Impact Site''===
{{infobox track
|name = The Impact Site
|jpname = ''{{j|遭難地点|Sōnan chiten}}''
|internal=tutorial.jam
|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBsG-Vn79Xw&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=6
|links=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6oYoFJ8hiA&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=7
}}
A playful theme that immediately reassures the player that Captain Olimar is safe after he crash-lands at [[The Impact Site]]. The high-pitched melody carried on glockenspiel and pizzicato violin also accent the tiny stature of Pikmin as they are discovered.

'''Instruments'''
*'''Main version''': '''Oboe''', {{w|contrabassoon}}, '''glockenspiel''', '''violin''' (pizzicato and section), violas, and cellos.
*'''Enemy mix''': Trombones, timpani, snare drum, bass drum, clash cymbals, violins, violas, and cellos.
*'''Sunset version''': '''Oboe''', '''tenor recorder''', and nylon guitar.

When the enemy mix is added, the strings from the main version are substituted with a slightly more severe version, and the glockenspiel is removed (strangely, the glockenspiel remains in ''Pikmin World''). In the sunset version of the theme, the gestures played on timpani are slightly different.

{{clear}}

===''Forest of Hope''===
{{infobox track
|name = Forest of Hope
|jpname = ''{{j|希望の森|Kibō no mori}}''
|official = y
|internal=play3.jam
|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoY_s_iJ1uY&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=8
|links=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7G4vnr0ong&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=9
}}
A calm theme that highlights the natural wholesomeness of the wilderness of [[The Forest of Hope]], while still remaining simple and steady enough to encourage the player getting used to commanding Pikmin. This theme's distinct lead instrument is sampled from the [[Assets used in the Pikmin series#Kurzweil K2500|Kurzweil K2500]]'s "Malletoo" patch.

'''Instruments'''
*'''Main version''': '''Electric piano synthesizer''', piano, violins, violas, and cellos.
*'''Enemy mix''': Congas.
*'''Sunset version''': Marimba, '''music box''', violins, violas, and cellos.

In ''Pikmin World'', the piano is an octave lower than normal. The ''Pikmin World'' version makes an appearance in the {{ssb}}, with the English title  ''"Forest of Hope"''.

{{clear}}

===''The Forest Navel''===
{{infobox track
|name = The Forest Navel
|jpname = ''{{j|樹海のヘソ|Jukai no Heso}}''
|internal=cave.jam
|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnjS_FsXyhs&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=10
|links=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC4CJ6TrVvM&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=11
}}
With a widening scope of exploration, a new visual landscape, and three types of Pikmin, [[The Forest Navel]]'s theme can afford to sound more exotic. The principal of this theme is a chordal instrument upon a droning C, unlike the previous two areas with a solid melody over C major. The faster tempo may also encourage the player using this area to discover more efficient ways to organize Pikmin.

'''Instruments'''
*'''Main version''': Synth guitar, '''steel string guitar''' (played with slide and some audible squeaking), {{w|talking drum}}, and tambourine.
*'''Enemy mix''': Congas, bongos, gourd shaker, steel string guitar, and oscillating sounds resembling a {{w|sizzle cymbal}}.
*'''Sunset version''': Synth guitar (used as both the drone and the main melodic instrument) and soft pad strings.

The guitar squeaks meant for the steel string guitar are present in the sunset version as well. It's unknown if this is erroneous, as this is removed in ''Pikmin World''. Also, the oscillating sound is much lower in pitch in ''Pikmin World''.

{{clear}}
===''The Distant Spring''===
{{infobox track
|name = The Distant Spring
|jpname = ''{{j|大水源|Dai suigen}}''
|internal=yaku.jam
|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M4vUeQtf0s&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=12
|links=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avCZFqzFbVY&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=13
}}
[[The Distant Spring]]'s theme is the most ethereal in the game, having no easily definable rhythm until the enemy mix fades in. Its sounds are all soft and distant; the music is no longer trying to aid a rhythm of gameplay, but is instead resigning and forcing the player to explore the huge area and solve tasks on their own. It features a distinct cymbal-like melodic instrument from the Kurzweil K2500, which will make a comeback in the following games of the series.

'''Instruments'''
*'''Main version''': [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkVBGSWYNEY '''Pitched ride cymbal'''], echoing {{w|glass harp}}, piano-like synth pad (with flanger and slide), {{w|mark tree}}, pad strings, and female choir.
*'''Enemy mix''': Contrabassoon, timpani, snare drum, bass drum, clash cymbals, piano, violins, violas, cellos, and basses.
*'''Sunset version''': Tenor recorder, celeste, echoing {{w|glass harp}}, mark tree, reed organ, piano-like synth pad (with flanger and slide), and female choir.

Many prominent sounds drop out when the enemy mix fades in, most notably, the pad in the main version, and the recorder and celeste in the sunset version. Additionally, it's only during sunset when the contrabassoon can actually be heard in the enemy mix, as it replaces the basses.

{{clear}}

===''The Final Trial''===
{{infobox track
|name = The Final Trial
|jpname = ''{{j|最後の試練|Saigo no shiren}}''
|internal=flow.jam
|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YhakTB1Oo4&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=14
|links=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zv0z-cSQsBo&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=15
}}
The gentle, calm, and predominantly major music of the game so far suddenly takes a sinister turn in [[The Final Trial]]. Although the melody and some accompaniment are a chipper skipping tune, the texture underneath it is a bass drone in F and a chromatic glockenspiel that does not fit in wherever the piece goes. And whenever combat ensues, the piece becomes even more suspenseful with low piano octaves that accent at weird times.

'''Instruments'''
*'''Main version''': '''Flute''', french horn, pipe organ pedals, marimba, piano, glockenspiel, violins, and basses.
*'''Enemy mix''': Snare drum, clash cymbals, piano.
*'''Sunset version''': '''Flute''', french horn, harp, glockenspiel and violins.

The drone played by the pipe organ fades out when the enemy mix fades in, so that the pipe organ and low piano do not conflict and become muddy-sounding. In ''Pikmin World'', the drone is an octave lower, and cellos are briefly present in the first few stabs.

{{clear}}

== Bosses ==
The two boss themes of the game play when two of the bosses, the [[Beady Long Legs]] and the [[Emperor Bulblax]], enter their arenas. The themes will only play if Captain Olimar is inside the arena. Unlike the area themes, these boss themes do not dynamically change based on the conditions of the boss battle, and they do not have ending tags to conclude the battle. Instead, the ship part jingle is heard, and the music returns to the normal area theme.

{{infobox track
|name = Impending Doom
|jpname = ''{{j|巨大生物接近|Kyodai seibutsu sekkin}}''
|internal=boss2.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVvcMxk3R5s&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=26
|header = y
}}
This piece is very effective at conveying danger. The movie-score like strings and brass section play a bellicose march dissonantly orbiting around D minor, while a vibraphone hammers out an intense series of chords in eighth note triplets.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Final Boss Battle
|jpname = ''{{j|最後の巨大生物|Saigo no kyodai seibutsu}}''
|internal=boss3.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IepWO9wa0tk&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=27
|header = y
}}
This interesting piece is structured as an organ impromptu, almost reminiscent of the score to the 1922 silent horror film ''{{w|Nosferatu}}''. A rotary organ plays an atonal but rhythmically sound piece, accompanied by interspersed bits of hand percussion, and a few blasts of a large echoing cymbal. Even out of context, the piece is quite unnerving, and it certainly builds the necessary tension of this climactic boss battle.

{{clear}}

== Minor jingles ==
These minor musical cues are more sound effects than musical tracks, but the fact that they are specifically instrumental helps make them more salient and musical.

{{infobox track
|name = New Record
|jpname = ''{{j|新記録達成|Shinkirokutassei}}''
|internal=fanf5.stx
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjYKih0bzjM&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=40
|header = y
}}
{|
|{{listen|filename=New Record.ogg|title=New record}}
|}
Heard when a new record is obtained in [[Challenge Mode (Pikmin)|Challenge Mode]]. This is a simple dominant-tonic resolution in B♭ containing an ascending scalar line in celeste that ends up directing the ear and the eye to the top of the records board.

{{clear}}

{{infobox track
|name = Finding Lost Pieces
|jpname = ''{{j|宇宙船パーツ出現!|Uchūsen pātsu shutsugen!}}''
|internal=demobgm.jam
|link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqJqSdgO3fE&list=PL7OD1YcIxKb4X-oBCmYsZGKqRsQxTuox7&index=21
|header = y
}}
{|
|{{listen|filename=Find Lost Ship Part.ogg|title=Ship part found}}
|}
Heard when a ship part is recovered from an [[enemy]] or boss. This small jingle is played exclusively by the synthesized instruments that associate with the S.S. Dolphin, directing the player's attention to the part.

{{clear}}

;''<span id="Ship part discovered">{{tt|Ship part discovered|This title is conjectural.}}</span>'':
Heard when Captain Olimar comes close enough to an undiscovered ship part. A brief dominant 7 flourish by a harp invokes a sense of mystery as the player awaits the name and description of this new part. If the player presses {{button|gc|a|wii|a}} while near the part after this discovery, an even briefer flourish of G D F G will match the briefer description that appears.

{{clear}}

;''<span id="Swarm">{{tt|Swarm|This title is conjectural.}}</span>'':
Heard when the player directs Pikmin using [[swarm]]. This is a small looping track played on a horn, in a bugle call structure reminiscent of the {{w|Assembly (bugle call)|assembly call}}. It commands the Pikmin's position like an army.

{{clear}}

;''<span id="Obstacle removed">{{tt|Obstacle removed|This title is conjectural.}}</span>'':
Heard when a [[gate]] or [[bridge]] obstacle is overcome, independent of Captain Olimar's location. This very small synthesized jingle is a slight variation on the rhythm and arpeggiation of the {{w|Charge (fanfare)|charge fanfare}}.

{{clear}}

;''<span id="Daytime chimes">{{tt|Daytime chimes|This title is conjectural.}}</span>'':
Heard when the [[HUD#Sun Meter|Sun Meter]] passes a quarterly increment of the [[day]]. At one-fourth and three-fourths of the day, a small handbell is rung. At noon, the handbell is rung twice. Near [[Day#Sunset|sunset]], the HUD will display the message to gather stray Pikmin, accented by Olimar's whistle sound and a tubular bell playing a chime similar to the ''{{w|Westminster Quarters}}'' half-hour chime, which in Japanese schools represents the beginning or end of a period.

{{clear}}

== Trivia ==
*In the [[New Play Control! Pikmin|''New Play Control!'' version of ''Pikmin'']], the saved game selection menu has a slight change in its music. The sound effect that plays in the beginning is slower than in the [[GameCube]] version. The slower sound effect can be heard briefly at the beginning of [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NHxu-nacXg&list=PL67D9B2451819D268 this video].
*[[Pellet Posy|Pellet Posies]] (even younger buds), [[geysers]], and [[Candypop family|Candypop Buds]] are all considered enemies in the game; as such the enemy mix is added to the theme whenever Captain Olimar is interacting with them.

== See also ==
*''[[Pikmin World]]''
*''[[Ai no Uta]]''

{{music}}