Nintendo has recently released the first screenshots of the sequel to Miyamoto's early GameCube masterpiece, Pikmin.

Imaginatively titled Pikmin 2 these first screens look promising and reveal one crucial detail missing from the original game - a multi-player option.

It's unknown at this stage, but it's likely that two-player Pikmin will contain both competitive and co-operative stages. Those not in control of intrepid explorer Olimar will assume the role of his apparent sidekick, as yet unnamed.

Pikmin 2 will hopefully release this side of 2003 in the UK. We'll keep you posted.