- This article is about the Pikmin 3 item. For the persistence of a playthrough's progress, see saved game.
Data files are collectibles scattered around the surface of PNF-404 in Pikmin 3. They appear as glowing yellow SD cards that float in place. Data files may contain text and/or images, and there are 120 of them in all. There are 88 that must be physically picked up and 11 more received by doing certain optional tasks (such as collecting a spacesuit upgrade). The remaining 21 are automatically obtained during progress through the main story.
Once one has been collected, it disappears from its spot, and is added to the Exploration Notes menu on the KopPad. This app is unlocked after one data file is collected, and keeps a collection of all obtained data files. When the active leader touches a data file, a brief cutscene takes place, where the gameplay pauses, the leader is seen celebrating with joy, and the data file is opened automatically. If, however, an inactive captain touches a data file, the object will still be collected, but the gameplay will not pause, nor will the file be opened – instead, the leader in question will announce they have found a data file.
Purpose
It is through data files that Alph, Brittany, and Charlie (and by extension, the player) gain understanding of the Pikmin and the world they come from. Data files, when collected, provide various hints and bits of information of various topics. Most of them are left behind by Captain Olimar, and besides leaving tips, they are used to keep an exploration log, and to try to contact anyone else who may be on the planet.
Some data files are not made by Captain Olimar however; at least not apparently. Some data files are obtained automatically by reaching certain points in the game, and merely explain some gameplay elements important exclusively to the player. In addition, a category of secret memos exists that is only useful outside of the game itself.
Categories
Data files are organized in six categories, which can be found in the Exploration Notes menu. These categories are:
Pikmin Behavior
- Main article: Pikmin Behavior.
This group (known as Pikminology in the European version) gives brief details about the various Pikmin types and their abilities. It also gives tips on what to do to rescue Pikmin in peril, and tips on using the Onion.
Controls
- Main article: Controls.
This group consists of brief info on controls, such as using the KopPad, as well as upgrade information. Most of these files are obtained once a certain requirement is met.
Indigenous Life
- Main article: Indigenous Life.
This group gives brief details about an enemy, such as its attacks and weak points. For example, one file in this group states that the Bulborb's eyes are its weak points.
Area Hints
- Main article: Area Hints.
This group holds various logs that Olimar wrote. These logs provide a bit of a hint as of what the explorers must do to overcome challenges in the area. There are two per main area.
Olimar's Log
- Main article: Olimar's Log.
This group contains logs that Olimar wrote on his journey on PNF-404. Some can be found in various areas, but most are found in the Formidable Oak, when Olimar was trying to escape the Plasm Wraith.
Other
- Main article: Secret Files.
This group holds nothing but pictures of Pikmin holding various numbers. There are two per area, and entering the code they form on a Wii U exclusive website allows the player to view video logs of Captain Olimar's journey during Pikmin 3.
Gallery
Brittany and some Yellow Pikmin coming across a data file.
- Albert.PNG
Alph when he first discovers a data file.
A data file found in a body of water.
