Like in Pikmin 2, Pikmin 3 has a 2-Player Battle mode. The overall rules have changed, but many of the same concepts return.
Basic Rules
One player will play as Alph, while the other will play as Captain Olimar. Unlike in Pikmin 2's 2-Player Battle, which requiered the player to capture marbles to win. This functions on carrying objects back to an assigned Onion. On the bottom of each player's screen, there will be a 4x4 card with random objects, such as the Male Sheargrub and Orange Bulborb. The player that collects all of the objects in a row, (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal) will win, similar to Bingo.
Pikmin
Unlike in Pikmin 2, each player can have any type of Pikmin. The only difference is that the color of the Pikmin's leaves, buds, or flowers will correspond with the player. (Player 1: Blue. Player 2: Red).
Controls
Similar to Pikmin 2, this involves 2 Players using the Wi Remote Plus and Nunchuck. Most standard controls apply, but down on the D-Pad now activates items. The Gamepad serves as HUD and can show where either player is.
Items
Once again, the player can get items by carrying back Cherries back to the assigned onion. Returning items include Pikmin + Items (+5, +10), and the Rocks to fall from the ceiling. A new items seems to act as lightning, as seen in the picture below. One can hold a maximun of 5 cherries.
