Nintendo has announced Star Fox for Nintendo Switch 2, a remake of the 1997 classic Star Fox 64, aiming to reintroduce the franchise to a new generation and reignite nostalgia for long-time fans. The game features updated graphics, new voice acting, cinematics, challenges, and expanded multiplayer modes, set to release on June 25, 2026.
Players can expect a familiar yet enhanced experience, with the core gameplay of the original remaining intact. Controlling the Arwing feels smooth, with maneuvers like barrel rolls and precise homing shots proving as rewarding as ever. The visual overhaul brings detailed ship models and environments to life, making iconic locations like Corneria look fantastic. Exploration of areas such as the ocean floor of Aquas and the lava flows of Solar are more immersive, while moments like watching the sun of the Lylat system creep through the ship graveyard of Sector X are described as mesmerizing.
The campaign mode has been fleshed out with more organic mission briefings and context, providing deeper insight into the conflict against Andross. Cutscenes between missions further develop the characters and their dynamics, with General Pepper acknowledging branching paths and laying out the stakes of each selectable mission, making player choices feel more impactful. The game also incorporates lore details within a Holoviewer, allowing players to unlock information about allies, enemies, and planets.
Gameplay additions include new challenges for each level, offering specific tasks to complete that encourage replayability akin to classic arcade experiences. The remake also makes the requirements for different routes more transparent, aiding players in exploration. The return of familiar elements, such as the secret encounter with the Attack Carrier and the kaleidoscope effect of the warp zone in the Meteo mission, preserves the essence of the original while enhancing the presentation.
Multiplayer modes have seen a significant expansion, moving beyond the barebones offerings of the original. The Switch 2 version supports online or GameShare multiplayer for up to eight players, featuring varied objectives across three maps. Modes include zone control on Corneria, energy crystal collection on Fichina, and a large-scale All-Range Mode in Sector Y where teams of Star Fox and Star Wolf battle pirates. Bots in multiplayer have proven surprisingly competent, adding a challenge even in incomplete matches.
Nintendo's character designs for the remake, while initially polarizing, are noted to pay homage to the original SNES puppets and have grown on players once seen in motion. The new music, including choral additions to boss themes, is also highlighted as exceptional, with the stirring score evoking emotion during the game's final moments.
While the remake successfully updates the Star Fox 64 experience, both previews and reviews suggest that the franchise is long overdue for entirely new content beyond remakes. Nevertheless, this iteration is seen as a joyful and updated reminder of why Star Fox 64 remains a high point for the series, offering a compelling blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements that should satisfy both returning fans and newcomers.