Nintendo Announces Star Fox Remake for Switch 2, Launching June 25

Key facts

• Nintendo announced a new Star Fox game titled 'Star Fox' for the Nintendo Switch 2.
• The game is a remake of Star Fox 64 and will launch on June 25, 2026.
• It features a complete visual overhaul with redesigned characters and revamped stages.
• New content includes a prologue mission with Fox's father and cinematic cutscenes.
• The game will include a four-on-four online dogfighting multiplayer mode.
• Star Fox will be priced at $49.99 digitally and is expected to be $60 physically in the U.S.

Surprise Return of a Space Shooter Icon

Nintendo has ended a ten-year silence with the surprise announcement of a new Star Fox game, simply titled 'Star Fox', for the Nintendo Switch 2. Revealed during a special Direct presentation, the game marks the return of the beloved space combat franchise. Fox McCloud's recent appearance in the Super Mario Galaxy Movie now appears to have been a deliberate hint at this long-awaited revival. The new title is described as being "based" on the classic Nintendo 64 release, Star Fox 64, but promises a significant modernization. Players can expect redesigned characters and upgraded visuals, aiming to deliver a thoroughly modern experience. Early glimpses reveal incredibly detailed character models, including a surprisingly realistic depiction of Slippy Toad. Beyond the familiar Arwing, the game will introduce additional vehicles for players to pilot, such as a submarine. This blend of nostalgia and contemporary design aims to capture both long-time fans and newcomers to the series. The game is set to launch on June 25, 2026.

A Modernized Classic with New Features

Nintendo producer Yoshiaki Koizumi and Star Fox creator Shigeru Miyamoto introduced the game, confirming it as a remake of Star Fox 64. While the stage layouts remain faithful to the N64 original, the visuals have undergone a "complete visual overhaul." Nintendo stated the game is a "cinematic take on the Star Fox 64 game, featuring newly overhauled character designs, freshly revamped looks for each stage, plus detailed cutscenes, fully voiced dialogue, and a sweeping orchestral soundtrack." Significant new content has been added to enhance the gameplay experience. A prologue mission will delve into the backstory of Fox's father, offering players a deeper understanding of the Star Fox team's origins through new cinematic cutscenes. A Challenge Mode will allow players to revisit cleared stages with new objectives, providing replayability on Normal or Expert difficulties. The game also introduces a robust multiplayer suite. The new four-on-four dogfighting battle mode will feature online play, allowing up to eight players to compete as Team Star Fox or Team Star Wolf. This mode includes three distinct stages with unique objectives: controlling a zone on Corneria, collecting energy crystals on Fichina, or retrieving cargo in Sector Y. Private matches and matchmaking for players worldwide are supported.

Innovative Controls and Avatar Integration

Star Fox will offer several innovative control options for the Switch 2. Players can opt for traditional gameplay or utilize mouse controls, compatible with the Switch 2's Joy-Con. A co-op mode allows a second player to take on the role of the gunner, adding a new dynamic to the campaign. For those seeking an authentic retro experience, the game will support the Nintendo 64 controller. This flexibility in control schemes caters to a wide range of player preferences, from those who embrace new technology to those who cherish the original hardware. A particularly surprising addition is the integration of realistic character avatars for online play. Nintendo describes this feature as an "interactive avatar that mirrors your expressions and movements in GameChat." This technology allows players to embody Star Fox characters during online interactions, using an AR filter for expressive communication.

Pricing and Switch 2 Lineup Context

The digital version of Star Fox will be available for $49.99 on Nintendo's eShop. Physical copies are expected to be priced higher, with an estimated cost of $60 in the U.S. In Japanese currency, the digital release is 5,480 yen, while the physical version is 6,480 yen. This positions Star Fox as a more budget-friendly option compared to some other Nintendo Switch 2 titles. This announcement arrives as Nintendo's lineup for the Switch 2 for the remainder of 2026 appears relatively sparse. Outside of Star Fox, the confirmed first-party titles scheduled are Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, Rhythm Heaven Groove, Splatoon Raiders, and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave. The confirmation of a new Star Fox game aligns with recent industry speculation. Reports last month, citing prominent Nintendo insider 'Nate the Hate' and corroborated by other sources, indicated that a new installment was in development for this year.

Campaign Mode and Multiplayer Scenarios

The Campaign Mode invites players to journey across a variety of planets, navigating treacherous asteroid fields and engaging in free-flying dogfights. At the outset, players can choose between Easy or Normal difficulty settings, with the goal of honing their skills to unlock the Expert setting. Player actions, such as objectives completed and foes defeated, can dynamically alter routes through the game's system, ensuring that each playthrough offers unique challenges and discoveries. Challenge Mode offers a distinct way to re-engage with the game's content. Players can replay previously cleared stages and tackle a range of new objectives and challenges not found in the main campaign. These challenges are available in both Normal and Expert difficulty settings, providing ample opportunity for players to test their mastery of the game's mechanics. The Battle Mode is designed for competitive play, pitting players against each other in all-new 4-vs-4 dogfights. Up to eight players can participate, divided into Team Star Fox and Team Star Wolf. This mode features three distinct stages, each with unique objectives: securing a designated zone on Corneria, collecting energy crystals on Fichina, or retrieving cargo from space pirates in Sector Y. Online play is available through private matches, allowing players to connect with friends or compete against a wider audience.

The bottom line

• Nintendo has officially announced a new Star Fox game for the Nintendo Switch 2, titled 'Star Fox'.
• The game is a remake of Star Fox 64, featuring a complete visual overhaul and updated character designs.
• Launch date is set for June 25, 2026, with a digital price of $49.99.
• New features include a prologue mission, Challenge Mode, and a four-on-four online multiplayer dogfighting mode.
• The game will support various control options, including mouse controls and the N64 controller.
• Star Fox's announcement adds a significant title to Nintendo's otherwise sparse Switch 2 lineup for 2026.