Star Fox Returns: Nintendo's Space Shooter Classic Revived on Switch 2

After a 10-year absence from the gaming landscape, Star Fox has returned as a stunning remake of the beloved Star Fox 64, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2. This isn't just a remaster—it's a complete audiovisual overhaul that transforms the N64 classic into a cinematic space adventure.

What is Star Fox on Switch 2?

Star Fox (2026) is a full remake of 1997's Star Fox 64, developed by Velan Studios in collaboration with Nintendo. The game stays faithful to the original's rail shooter gameplay while delivering massive visual and audio upgrades that leverage the Switch 2's hardware capabilities.

As Fox McCloud, you'll lead a squadron of anthropomorphic pilots—including Slippy Toad, Peppy Hare, and Falco Lombardi—on missions across the galaxy to defeat the evil scientist Andross. The game features branching paths, intense space combat, and the iconic Arwing starfighter.

Star Fox Release Date and Price

Release Date: June 25, 2026
Price: $49.99 (digital or physical game card)
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive

Unlike most Nintendo releases at $69.99, Star Fox launched at a more accessible price point, making it an attractive entry for fans returning to the franchise or newcomers curious about the series.

Key Features and New Additions

Complete Visual Overhaul

The Switch 2 version features photorealistic character designs, detailed environments, and spectacular visual effects. Ships leaving trails in ocean water, gigantic enemies filling the screen, and waves of lava crashing around you—this is Star Fox as you've never seen it before.

James McCloud Prologue

A new opening chapter explores Fox's relationship with his father, James McCloud, adding emotional depth to the story and providing context for Fox's motivations throughout the campaign.

Fully Voiced Cutscenes

Unlike the original's brief text exchanges, every mission is now accompanied by voiced cutscenes that flesh out the story. You'll spend more time with characters outside their ships—Fox sipping an energy drink between battles, for instance.

Reorchestrated Soundtrack

The classic soundtrack has been reimagined with a fully rerecorded orchestral score, bringing new life to iconic themes while preserving the spirit of the original composition.

Multiplayer and Gameplay Modes

Pilot and Gunner Co-op

A new two-player local co-op mode lets one player steer the craft while the other aims and fires weapons. Using GameShare, friends can join locally or online to experience the campaign together.

4v4 Online Battle Mode

The multiplayer Battle Mode has been expanded to support eight players in 4v4 matches across three dedicated arenas. Online play via GameChat includes AR avatar filters that map player facial expressions onto Star Fox character models.

Challenge Mode

A new single-player mode focused on completing level-specific tasks and achieving high scores, adding replayability beyond the main campaign.

Control Options

Star Fox supports multiple control schemes: standard Joy-Con buttons, the Nintendo 64 Wireless Controller, and new Joy-Con 2 mouse controls for precise aiming. Players can choose their preferred playstyle.

Why Star Fox Matters for Nintendo's Future

Star Fox on Switch 2 feels like more than just a remake—it feels like a setup for something bigger. The franchise has been dormant since Star Fox Zero in 2016, and this remake demonstrates Nintendo's commitment to revitalizing classic IPs.

With the success of this remake, fans are hopeful that a fully original Star Fox title could be in development, potentially marking the beginning of a new era for Fox McCloud and his team.