Editing Music in Pikmin 2

{{game icons|p2=y}}

{{page title| Music in ''Pikmin 2''}}

The '''music''' of [[Pikmin 2|''Pikmin 2'']] accompanies every mode of the game, from themes during gameplay to scores of cutscenes and menus, in order to provide a more engaging and focally directed experience. Generally, the textural style of the music reflects either the game's new mission from [[Hocotate]], the organic overworld of [[PNF-404]], or the specific visual theme of a [[cave]]; by vastly varying its unique instrumentations, register, and rhythms. During gameplay, each piece of music sets the mood for the particular environment, and adapts dynamically to what tasks Pikmin are carrying out, the identity and condition of the controlled [[leader]], and the time of [[day]]. Some tracks even adapt specifically to the actions of bosses. Between gameplay, pre-rendered cutscenes are scored with a large orchestra, and in-game cutscenes are scored with small ensembles. In general, compared with [[Music in Pikmin|the music of the previous game]], the soundtrack of ''Pikmin 2'' is less melodically driven, and more atmospheric, although this iteration of the game contains quite a few {{w|leitmotif}}s, or musical gestures that become associated with characters or ideas.  

All the compositions of this game consist wholly of synthesized sounds or samples attempting to mimic real instruments. Although compared with [[Pikmin (game)|the previous game]], the technology used to mimic these instruments is more advanced and can cover a wider collection and range.

*Hajime Wakai and Kazumi Totaka's differing equipment can be used to determine which of the two composers was responsible for each particular song, as their songs will use samples recorded from their respective synthesizers. Hajime Wakai uses 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, while Kazumi Totaka primarily uses samples from the [[Assets used in the Pikmin series#Yamaha S90|Yamaha S90]].{{cite web |https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1s5wRceP34gaPr-CkNSnnlaCSEID5HjWTX4TSR_OxeqA/|Detailed spreadsheet that documents sound sources used in the series, maintained by fans|Google Sheets|rname=spreadsheet}}

*''Pikmin 2''{{'s}} sequenced music uses a bank system to hold instrument programs. Songs exclusively use instruments from either bank 4 or bank 5, belonging to Hajime Wakai and Kazumi Totaka respectively. Samples from the Roland SC-88 and Kurzweil K2500 exist exclusively in bank 4, while the Yamaha S90's instruments are within bank 5.

Using evidence obtained from all of the methods above, every song's composer has been identified, and listed within this article.

{| class="responsive-col" style="width:100%"

Heard in the [[bonuses menu]]. This is a simple playful waltz played on {{w|Calliope (music)|steam calliope}}, an instrument that was usually reserved for circus acts or riverboats but could sometimes find itself at a theatre in the early 20th century. Eventually joined by bandoneon, electric bass, and a simple bass drum and snare kit, the tune becomes a sort of polka waltz. However, this polka section was probably not considered likely to be heard; not much time is spent in the Bonuses menu.

Heard in the [[Piklopedia and Treasure Hoard menu]] screens. This quiet theme in 5/8 time signature has a low melody on fretless bass, enhancing its subtlety. As the theme goes on, the bass gets more ornamental in its style, but the piece mainly stays at one intensity level, so as not to distract from the articles to be read. This theme also contains instances of the same [[Music in Pikmin#The Distant Spring|synthesized cymbal]] instrument heard in the first game, used as complements to the harmony.

 

Under the title "flora and fauna", this theme was featured on the Club Nintendo exclusive album ''[[mariowiki:Nintendo Sound Selection Vol.3: B-Side Music|Nintendo Sound Selection Vol.3: B-Side Music]]'', released in 2005 in Japan.

|internal=c_result.w.32.c4

Heard during the [[Cutscene#Attraction mode|attraction mode]] if the main menu is left idle long enough. Very different from [[Music in Pikmin#Carry, Fight, Increase and be Eaten|the first game's attraction mode theme]], this theme is simply African drums and percussion along with a modal melody on a flute and a Pikmin making small noises to the beat. The entire track has a low pass filter, probably so as not to distract from the video. But the high register of the melody and Pikmin's voice convey the scale of the pre-rendered cutscenes very well.

Heard after the opening cinema during a new game. This intro to PNF-404 begins with the Hocotatian motif as the ship flies in for a landing. The hits by tree branches are {{w|Mickey Mousing|Mickey-moused}}, or synced exactly with the music. Specifically, they are synced with strings playing {{w|Col legno|''col legno''}}, until a bell and chromatically descending flute match Louie's ejection from the ship. Chromatic oboe and xylophone score the struggle of the ship to regain balance, until it lands and the score ends on a whole-tone glissando from the harp, leaving the mood in limbo.

Heard any time the ship gives information to the player unrelated to any recent discovery. This seems to be the cutscene score on which all other [[Ship's dialogs|ship dialog cutscene scores]] are based. The introduction during which the catalyst of the dialog occurs is a simple melody on xylophone, sometimes accompanied by hand percussion in cutscenes farther from the ship. After the introduction, time freezes and the ship begins explaining. During this time, a looping texture plays, since the dialog can last indefinitely. Simple, background pad instruments and electronic percussion (plus hand percussion like castanets) connect the ship's character to the dialog and to the lesson this cutscene teaches.

Heard when a new type of Pikmin is discovered. This theme is quite multi-layered; it has marimba and trumpet playing a call and response of the ''Pikmin 2'' motif, underneath which a celeste and oboe play {{w|polyrhythm}}s. After all the instruments but the celeste relax into a held G major chord, the piece smoothly transitions to the same synthesized loop as the new Onion discovery cutscene (above), since the ship has begun its dialog.

Heard whenever a normal [[treasure]] or the first [[Burgeoning Spiderwort|berry]] of one type is brought to the ship or [[Hocotate ship#Research pod|research pod]]. This little orchestral iteration of the Hocotate motif is heard the most out of any iteration. It is followed by a small and high xylophone gesture when the name of the treasure appears; this synchronization is broken if the cutscene is rushed by pressing {{button|gc|a|wii|a}}. Afterwards, another looping texture of synthesizers plays the main gesture of the end of day theme (below).

Heard at the end of a day on which no treasures have been collected. This skeleton of the end of day theme has a much less intense muted trumpet and accordion sharing the melody, and a xylophone handles the otherwise complex harmonies of the normal tune. The untuned percussion remains the same, however.

|internal=ff_annihi.w.32.c4.ast

Heard at the automatic end of a day on which a [[Pikmin extinction]] has occurred or both leaders have [[Leader#Leader is down|fallen]]. A vibraphone and organ bass play the end of day theme over A minor, which devolves into a descending cello line and ending. The only percussion instruments in this version of the theme are a gong and one brief instance of clash cymbals.

Heard when [[The Key]] is collected. This unique rendition of the treasure collection theme replaces the winds with a harpsichord and ringing bell, enhancing the image of the golden key with an element of class, suggesting a feeling of luxury, or even wealth.

Heard above ground when any 10% increment of the debt is paid off, excepting 100%. Muted horns make a rightful fanfare of the Hocotatian theme, accented by clash cymbals and a timpani roll. The fanfare is made even more effective since gameplay is stopped for it.

Heard in a cinema unlocked when every challenge in [[Challenge Mode (Pikmin 2)|Challenge Mode]] is perfectly completed. This score is exactly the [[Cutscene#Attraction mode|attraction mode]] theme from [[Pikmin (game)|the first game]]. This choice is comical because although [[Cutscene#Louie's Dark Secret|Louie's dark secret is rather vexing]], the music is cheerful and simplistic, which makes the whole cinema appear jocular or even teasing.

*'''Task mix:''' If the active leader is near Pikmin carrying out a task such as breaking down a [[gate]], building a [[bridge]], or carrying a [[treasure]] (only treasure works, no other carried items trigger this),  a unique complement to the music will be added. This can vary greatly from theme to theme.

*'''Treasure mix:''' If Pikmin are currently carrying a treasure, a new instrument complementing the melody (or main instrument) will be added to the music, in addition to the task mix instruments. Unlike the task mix complement however, the volume of the new instrument that is specific to the treasure mix is always static, and will not fade out if the active leader moves far away from the treasure.

*If a Pikmin death has occurred today and the number of the Pikmin in the field is less than 10, specific instruments will skip notes in the theme. Pikmin sprouts do not count for this check, and entering or exiting a cave will reset the "Pikmin death has occurred today" flag. In this article, these instruments will be indicated by having their names emboldened.

These changes can also occur to cave themes.

*'''Main version''': Harp, pizzicato cellos, '''synth handbells''', and sleigh bells.

*'''Enemy mix''': Harpsichord.

*'''Combat mix''': Concert clash cymbals, concert bass drum, hi-hat, tom-tom set, and timpani.

At the beginning of the first day, no music plays in the area. After [[Louie]] first plucks a [[Red Pikmin]], the area theme plays, but as a completely non-dynamic version of the Olimar version of the area's sunset theme. After the two leaders are reunited, the area's theme plays as it normally does on any other day.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>This area has no [[Burgeoning Spiderwort]]s, so there is no Spiderwort mix. However, hacking the game to insert a [[Burgeoning Spiderwort]] into the stage will allow the game to play the missing variation, as it is present in the game's data.{{cite youtube|ZRGVL125w7Q|of a hacked game that has the Spiderwort mix in the Valley of Repose}}

*'''Main version''': Violins, french horns, trumpets, '''trombones''', '''oboe''', and '''marimba'''.

*'''Combat mix''': Conga, supertumbas, concert clash cymbals, cowbell, muted anvil, {{w|Roland CR-78|CR-78}} hi-hat, distorted snare drum and timbale shell samples, and splash cymbal.

*'''Task mix''': Timpani, trombones, flutes, and strings.

*'''Main version''': Bell synthesizer, '''piano''', chorused electric guitar, '''vocal synthesizer''', and triangle.

*'''Combat mix''': Concert bass drum, timbales, shaker, ride cymbal (bell), claves, cowbell, and crash cymbal.

*'''Task mix''': Santur and synth bass.

The [[Wistful Wild]] has a wistful march for its theme, if anything representing the struggle the leaders are going through to rescue Louie. The drone in C, the acoustic guitar rhythms, and the sitar resemble [[Music in Pikmin#The Forest Navel|The Forest Navel's theme]], but without percussion and with a somber melody on a contrabass this theme becomes less exploratory. The theme is almost threatening, to warn the player of the more dangerous fauna present in this area.

*'''Main version''': Electric guitar with distortion (used as a drone), sitar, acoustic guitar ensemble, flutes (with notable chiff), waterphone, and '''solo contrabass'''.

*'''Enemy mix''': Modified guitar sample, played very high.

*'''Combat mix''': Timpani, and distorted snare drum, timbale shell, and tom-tom samples.

*'''Task mix''': Piano, double bass, and hi-hat.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Normally, this area's sunset theme has the melody played out by a music box, mirroring the other areas. But in the US and European versions of the GameCube original, the game will erroneously continue using the flutes and contrabass for the music box's melody, resulting in those instruments sounding incredibly high-pitched. This only plays through once at the beginning of sundown, and when the song loops, those instruments will then properly be switched to the music box instrument. This can be witnessed by pausing the game, or by opening an [[Onion]]'s menu, and does not happen at all in the ''[[New Play Control! Pikmin 2|New Play Control!]]'' versions.

The 14 '''[[caves]]''' of the main game and the 30 caves of [[Challenge Mode (Pikmin 2)|Challenge Mode]] use a total of 24 different compositions (plus a default 25th in Challenge Mode) for their sublevels (not including sublevels set exclusively for boss battles). The cave themes are different from the area themes in that they are minimalistic and randomly generated, to reflect the more minimalistic and random layout of cave floors. Specifically, normal cave themes have very few instruments playing at once, and the instruments will randomly select from a set of short musical gestures, playing these snippets at either preset rhythms, or on randomly selected beats. That being said, the music will still dynamically add mixes to reflect parameters in gameplay. These parameters are the same as the [[#Areas|area themes]], but since the time of [[day]] has no impact inside caves, there are no Sunset versions of these themes. In Challenge Mode, there is also no tempo reduction when a leader's health drops to 50%. Although Burgeoning Spiderworts cannot be found underground, many cave themes do have fully functional, [https://tcrf.net/Pikmin_2/Unused_Music#Cave_Spiderwort_Mixes unheard Spiderwort mixes].

 

The selection of a cave theme for a certain sublevel seems to depend on the design and content of the sublevel, although this happens more noticeably with some themes than with others; in Challenge Mode this is even less of a priority. Many cave songs also have several near-duplicate variants, known as "variation songs".<ref>From a comment at the bottom of <code>/user/Totaka/BgmList_BgmTest.txt</code>.<br>"同一シーケンス、同一波形セットを使ったバリエーション曲を用意してください｡"<br>In English, this comment asks developers to prepare "variation songs" using the same sequence and waveform data.</ref> Variation songs are slight alterations upon the original song, and can feature a slightly different melody, a different instrument, or even some minor adjustments to the mixing. Besides a few minor instances however, the majority of these variants go unused, with only one specific variation of a song being utilized across the entire game. The reason for this is unknown.

The list of themes below is in a reasonable main-game order: [[Emergence Cave]], [[Hole of Beasts]], [[White Flower Garden]], [[Citadel of Spiders]], [[Bulblax Kingdom]], [[Snagret Hole]], [[Subterranean Complex]], [[Frontier Cavern]], [[Shower Room]], [[Glutton's Kitchen]], [[Submerged Castle]], [[Cavern of Chaos]], [[Hole of Heroes]], [[Dream Den]]. It should be noted that any names for these themes are conjectural; the themes in this list draw influence from the internal names and developer comments leftover within <code>/user/Totaka/trackMap_Cond_T.txt</code>. Also, the recordings of these themes are recordings of single iterations; the themes are random and will not play the same way twice in-game.

=== Emergence Cave 1 ===

|name      = Emergence Cave 1

A simple composition for the player's first introduction to caves. An electric piano-esque instrument alternates between randomized 4-voice arpeggios of E and B (with a 3-voice arpeggio every 4th time), and a randomized bell-piano sort of sound is introduced that will alert the player to [[Enemy|enemies]] in a few other caves. This minimal texture works alongside the minimal look of snow-based sublevels that use few colors.

*'''Main version''': '''Organ-like synthesizer'''.

*'''Treasure mix''': '''Bell synthesizer'''.

=== Emergence Cave 2 ===

|name      = Emergence Cave 2

With the cave delving concept now established, this theme accompanies the exploration of a layout that is considerably larger than the previous. Although this piece has a randomized sine-wave instrument, the main texture is very rigid each iteration. Its use of fifth intervals gives the piece an added sense of stability since the fifth is a {{w|perfect fifth}}.

=== Relax ===

|name      = Relax

|altname  = Rest

|internal  = caverelax.cnd

Heard in any [[rest sublevel]]. This music is probably the most random in the game; although the pitches are mostly chosen out of the diatonic D-major scale (with the occasional A♯/B♭on the bass sine-waves), their order is random and their timing is random. Although enemies can appear on rest sublevels, they do not trigger any additions to the theme. The only addition made is when a treasure is being carried in a rest sublevel, such as the [[Brute Knuckles]] or the [[Lost Gyro Block]]. This extra instrument is specifically tied to the task mix.

*'''Main version''': Bass sine-waves, organ-like synthesizer (with very long attack and release), and chorused sine-wave pads.

*'''Task mix''': Pulse-waves (with a modulating wah-wah filter added).

Often heard in sublevels where there is an abundance of [[fire]] hazards. The cave themes get more experimental with this rhythmic bed over which one instrument can improvise random pitches. The main instrument still plays to a specific timing, however; each two measures the note density increases from 1 to 2 to 3-5, and then resets. A noticeable factor in this composition is the echo in the normal version, giving the sublevel ambiance a sense of depth. The treasure mix in this piece does not complement the melody but the rhythm. Instead, the combat mix adds harmony to the melody.

*'''Combat mix''': Processed drum kit and chime-like synthesizer.

*'''Treasure mix''': '''Organ-like synthesizer'''.

|altname  = Hot House

*'''Enemy mix''': Harpsichord.

*'''Main version''': '''Bass extension of a marimba''', conga, cowbell, low glockenspiel, and electric piano synthesizer.

*'''Combat mix''': {{w|Noise gate|Gated}} splash cymbal, distorted timbale shell sample, conga, supertumba, {{w|Roland CR-78|CR-78}} hi-hat, and gated timpani.

*'''Task mix''': Muted bass drum, muted {{w|Anvil#Musical instruments|anvil}}, {{w|Roland CR-78|CR-78}} hi-hat, and pizzicato violins and violas.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>A [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JR8KeDcGIKs&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGN8mGTqvDhsBs37SW4TkHcw&index=134 variation of this theme] with a slightly different melody plays exclusively on the second sublevel of the [[Secret Testing Range]], with the internal name <code>cavemetal_05_0.cnd</code>. In this variation, the main melodic guitar is also swapped out for an electric-guitar-like synthesizer, and the treasure mix's acoustic guitar is replaced with a steel-stringed guitar.

*'''Main version''': Tubular bells, sound effects (a heavy anvil crash, and an echoing pile driver thud), '''chorused acoustic guitar''', and pad synthesizer.

|caves    = [[White Flower Garden#Sublevel 4|White Flower Garden sublevel 4]], [[Bulblax Kingdom#Sublevel 2|Bulblax Kingdom sublevels 2]] and [[Bulblax Kingdom#Sublevel 3|3]]*, [[Frontier Cavern#Sublevel 6|Frontier Cavern sublevel 6]]

*'''Task mix''': Brushed snare drum, piano, electric piano synthesizer, and log drum.

Caves often tend to include more purposely synthetic-sounding instruments, since the landscape is likewise more unfamiliar than general [[area]] terrain. Although instruments in cave themes may sound like a particular natural instrument, there are timbres that distinguish this instrument as synthesized. For example, the main instrument here mimics a trombone, but still has enough differences in attack and cutoff to be an independent sound. This theme also uses the same tabla groove from "[[#Fire|Fire]]", though the tabla has been swapped for an electronic one, and the bass tabla has been replaced by the same bass instrument used in ''[[#Emergence Cave 2|Emergence Cave 2]]''.

*'''Treasure mix''': Bell synthesizer.

 

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Due to a [[Mistake#Broken Switch port instruments|mistake]], the trombone-like synthesizer is impossible to hear in the [[Pikmin 2 (Nintendo Switch)|Nintendo Switch port]], resulting in this song being melody-less in that version.

=== Concrete 3 ===

|name      = Concrete 3

*'''Main version''': '''Synth bass''', '''conga''', cowbell, and Pikmin-esque FM synthesizer.

=== Concrete 2 ===

|name      = Concrete 2

|linko    = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFokmsmLL0Q_w&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGN8mGTqvDhsBs37SW4TkHcw&index=36

|linkl    = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTizyV6FwAA_w&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGN8mGTqvDhsBs37SW4TkHcw&index=37

As another example of synthetic instruments mimicking their real-life counterparts, this theme's main melodic wind instrument was created with {{w|physical modeling synthesis}}, which is a unique form of sound synthesis that attempts to replicate the natural noise and intricacies of real-life acoustic instruments. Although this lead may not be designed to sound like any exact blown instrument, the timbre does slightly resemble a sort of single-reed.

A pulse is implied in this piece, but a meter to organize that pulse is not as definable, especially when the percussion is randomly ordered. The highly varied instrumentation and erratic timing of patterns may influence the mixed and random selection of enemies on these floors.

*'''Main version''': '''[[Assets used in the Pikmin series#Expansion boards|Synthesized wind lead]]''', '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BON1hkygaw davul]''', '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjJ7EBjhh-s maman]''', fretless bass, and timpani (the side of the drum is struck).

=== Bulblax Kingdom ===

|name      = Bulblax Kingdom

*'''Combat mix''': Bass drum and clash cymbals.

=== Snagret Hole ===

|name      = Snagret Hole

In the main game, this is exclusive to the [[Snagret Hole]], although it has the same key (A minor) and similar tempo to [[#Bulblax Kingdom|the "Bulblax Kingdom" theme]]. The instrumentation is very loose and in the game very quiet, and more randomness is allowed in the melody and minimal harmony.

*'''Combat mix''': Log drum and Native American brass bell shaker.

*'''Task mix''': Two seed pod shakers.

=== Grass ===

|name      = Grass

*'''Main version''': Violin-like synthesizer, wood blocks, '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvRgWASqRKY tingsha]''', and [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OftdeE1pTeA udu].

*'''Combat mix''': Metal bowl and [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BON1hkygaw davul].

|caves    = [[Subterranean Complex#Sublevel 6|Subterranean Complex sublevel 6]], [[Snagret Hole#Sublevel 5|Snagret Hole sublevel 5]]*, [[Cavern of Chaos#Sublevel 1|Cavern of Chaos sublevel 1]]

<nowiki>*</nowiki>A [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvv8ZJXGBY0&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGN8mGTqvDhsBs37SW4TkHcw&index=54 variation of this theme] with a slightly different melody plays exclusively on the fifth sublevel of the [[Snagret Hole]], with the internal name <code>cavemetal_10_4.cnd</code>. The normal track's melody uses the atonal group A♭, A, B♭, B, D♭, D, E♭, E, G. The melody in Snagret Hole sublevel 5 uses A♭, A, B♭, B, C, D♭, D, E♭, E, F, G♭, meaning only G is unused.

*'''Main version''': {{w|Waterphone}}, impossibly low celeste, '''santur''', and congas.

*'''Combat mix''': Gated splash cymbal, distorted timbale shell sample, muted anvil, concert bass drum, and hi-hat.

=== Frontier Cavern ===

|name      = Frontier Cavern

In the main game, this theme is exclusive to the [[Frontier Cavern]]. This theme's noticeable waltz rhythm is rigidly defined by a strict harmony in harp-like synthesizer. The structure is also very rigid, consisting of a randomly selected gesture from the flute, and a randomly selected response from harpsichord.

*'''Enemy mix''': Pitched metallic "bong" sound effects.

*'''Combat mix''': Hand cymbals, and Native American drum and shaker.

*'''Task mix''': [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjJ7EBjhh-s Maman] and wood blocks.

=== Tile ===

|name      = Tile

This interesting piece in a 3/4 time signature is tied with ''[[#Concrete 3|Concrete 3]]'' for most popular, and is only heard in tile-themed sublevels. This piece actually uses water drop samples as percussion, and not only steady percussion but a randomized percussion solo, as though the drop samples are a pitched instrument. Meanwhile the melody is based off of random tri-tones, the interval made by splitting the octave in half.

*'''Main version''': '''Steel drum''', water drop samples, and electric piano synthesizer.

*'''Combat mix''': Snare drum, bass drum (raised in pitch), distorted snare drum, distorted tom-tom, and distorted timbale shell.

=== Jellyfloat ===

|name      = Jellyfloat

|linko    = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvsOXzKYqs4&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGN8mGTqvDhsBs37SW4TkHcw&index=56

|linkl    = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp9mFAYQG1k&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGN8mGTqvDhsBs37SW4TkHcw&index=57

Named after this theme's simultaneous debut with the first [[Jellyfloat family|Jellyfloat]] encounter in the [[Shower Room]]. This theme is in 7/4 time signature, punched in by an electric piano playing a repetitious gesture that seems to mimic the movement of this theme's associated floating enemy. Some random notes on the electric piano are sustained, and the melody this time is quite noticeable since the general texture is easy to follow and repeats often the same way.

*'''Enemy mix''': Detuned organ-like synthesizer, playing the electric piano gesture at a different time and transposition.

=== Toy ===

|name      = Toy

In the main game, this theme only occurs in room-based sublevels with wooden block layouts. The music is once again intentionally overcomplicated, and this time the multiple colors used in the music complement the unusual and toy-based landscape. Although the texture is thin, the ensemble for this theme is rather sizeable, for a cave theme. This theme is also in 3/4 time signature, best established by the task and combat mixes.

*'''Combat mix''': Piccolo snare drum, triangle, tenor drums, and concert clash cymbals.

=== Toy Railroad ===

|name      = Toy Railroad

This simple theme accompanies one particular layout with a wooden toy railroad. The theme itself sounds toylike, and takes a much more chipper, less atonal mood than other themes in the game, or even in the [[Glutton's Kitchen]]. The organ gestures are randomly selected, but each gesture is so similar that the general melody easily becomes recognizable.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>A [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jba2WjhHZAM&list=PLwyW5mbdZMGP4hZDf_mvHbXZUA5wb0O3r&index=36 variation of this theme] plays exclusively on the fourth sublevel of the [[Glutton's Kitchen]], with the internal name <code>new_08_1.cnd</code>. This version replaces the bell sound effect with a rapidly oscillating FM sound that occasionally skips notes. This unique corruption upon the original theme effectively removes its strongest tie to the railroad motif, and instead scores the presence of the sublevel's threatening [[Spotty Bulbear]].

*'''Main version''': '''DX electronic organ''', '''{{w|Roland TR-808|TR-808}} congas''', and a '''panned railroad crossing bell''' (or an '''oscillating FM synth sample''' in the altered version).

*'''Combat mix''': {{w|Roland TR-808|TR-808}} snare rim click and hi-hat, and a kick drum from a {{w|Roland TR-909|TR-909}}.

*'''Task mix''': Tambourine.

*'''Main version''': '''Modified bass piano samples''', '''hand cymbals''', '''baritone saxophone''', glassware clink, '''xylophone''', and an electric piano sample rising in pitch, resembling the sound made by a Pikmin ready to be [[throw]]n.

*'''Combat mix''': {{w|Roland TR-909|TR-909}} bass drum and {{w|Roland TR-808|TR-808}} hi-hat, playing slightly off-beat.

*'''Task mix''': {{w|Roland TR-808|TR-808}} congas.

=== Flooded Stump ===

|name      = Flooded Stump

This theme is very similar to "[[#Jellyfloat|Jellyfloat]]", with a mostly synthesized ensemble and an irregular time signature conveyed by one repeating gesture. Although the scenery of the sublevel, an underground submerged stump, does help this particular synthetic theme feel more organic. Interestingly, the tempo, drum kit, and tablas (along with their groove pattern) are identical to what's used in "[[#Fire|Fire]]". The shared instruments superimpose a 4/4 rhythm on the irregular gesture played by sine-waves.

*'''Main version''': '''Sine-wave''', '''two chorused trombone-like synthesizers''', and '''synth bass'''.

=== Key Get (Challenge Mode) ===

|name      = Key Get (Challenge Mode)

|internal  = cavekeyget.cnd

Heard when a 2-Player battle begins. A brass section, timpani, and clash cymbals play a fanfare for opening the battle, but rather than sounding militaristic, the brass section sounds like jazz brass playing big band hits. This drives home the lighthearted triviality of the battle, yet still builds enough tension to prepare the two players for competition.

Heard when both sides' Pikmin are attacking each other, or attacking [[leader]]s. A hard bass drum and clash cymbal add intensity to the mix as combat engages. The music does not vary based on leader, however.

Heard when the opposing leader takes too much damage and falls. Dissonant muted trumpets play a frivolous version of the "leader down" gesture from the main game, again leading into the default march. Louie's damage victory is also swung.

Heard in the instance that both sides simultaneously lose all their Pikmin. A stripped-down version of the normal Pikmin extinction default theme plays on solo xylophone and bell cymbal. In this condition, both Pikmin chants are heard, although Louie's chant interestingly sounds more interrogative and soft-spoken.

Heard in the instance that both leaders take too much damage and fall. A stripped-down version of the normal leader damage default theme plays on xylophone, bell cymbal, and organ. In this condition, both Pikmin chants are heard, although Louie's chant interestingly sounds more interrogative and soft-spoken.

These small jingles are treated as sound effects rather than musical tracks. They often indicate specific in-game events, but do not interrupt gameplay itself.

Heard after gameplay begins on the final sublevel of a cave. This drastically intense jingle immediately builds tension about what could lie on the [[final floor]]. The jingle is mostly synthesized bass jumping up intervals and stepping down half-steps, which makes it bear a slight, uncanny, and perhaps intended resemblance to part of the [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0SuIMUoShI underground theme] in ''[[mariowiki:Super Mario Bros.|Super Mario Bros.]]''.

Heard when the player directs Pikmin using [[swarm]]. Like [[Music in Pikmin#Swarm|the first game's swarm jingle]], this jingle has a bugle call structure reminiscent of the {{w|Assembly (bugle call)|assembly call}}. However, unlike the first game, this jingle has three sections instead of two, and while the first section is tonal and coherent, the latter two sections take radical turns into atonal patterns. The end of the third section eventually brings the melodic line back to the beginning key, so that the loop can begin again. The current leader determines the key and instrument of the jingle. For [[Captain Olimar]], a toy horn plays the jingle in E. For [[Louie]], a clarinet plays the jingle in G. For [[the President]], a bassoon plays the jingle in F.

Heard when an [[obstacle]], such as a [[gate]] or [[bridge]], is overcome. This jingle is very similar to [[Music in Pikmin#Obstacle removed|the first game's obstacle jingle]] in that its structure resembles the {{w|Charge (fanfare)|charge fanfare}}. However, the last note is different from the previous game: it is a non-diatonic #4 scale degree, making the whole jingle sound odd and even comical, since the expected ending gets slightly bent.

As explained [[#Areas|above]], area and cave themes dynamically change according to several factors, like interaction with enemies. When the player is near an enemy, the "enemy mix" is added; the "combat mix" is only added when an enemy is performing specific actions or animations. This table explains the reasons for the combat mix, as well as extra notes about either the enemy mix or combat mix.{{cite youtube|yvSxqvDJ9bo|of a hacked game that better shows off the enemy and combat mix triggers for bosses}}

{| class="wikitable sortable"

|[[Armored Cannon Larva|Armored Cannon Beetle Larva]] (buried)

|[[Armored Cannon Larva|Armored Cannon Beetle Larva]] (free)

|Combat mix plays when the Dwarf Bulbear is biting and eating Pikmin.

|[[Dwarf Bulborb|Dwarf Red Bulborb]]

|[[Bulborb|Red Bulborb]]

|The enemy mix plays whenever the player is near the enemy. No combat mix whatsoever, likely due to the Toady Bloyster and Ranging Bloyster being coded internally as the same enemy.

|Enemy mix plays when the Waterwraith is stunned from Purple Pikmin (in either form), and when it is trying to catch its breath. No combat mix whatsoever.

*Depending on the Pikmin in the player's group, and what treasures remain in the area or sublevel, the Pikmin will [[Easter egg#Singing|sing]] different melodies.

*''Key Get'' and ''Metal 2'' (the Secret Testing Range version) are the only two tracks in the game to not have a tempo-reduced version when a leader's health drops to 50%, since these tracks are exclusive to Challenge Mode, where this musical alteration is absent.