Star Fox Remake Announced for Switch 2, Launches June 25

Key facts

• A new Star Fox remake for Switch 2 has been announced.
• The game is a ground-up remake of Star Fox 64, also known as Lylat Wars.
• It features a graphical overhaul and new story moments.
• Multiplayer modes include online battles against Star Wolf and local co-op.
• The game includes familiar elements like Arwing flight, Landmaster tank, and Blue-Marine submarine sections.
• Switch 2 mouse controls and N64 controller support are new features.
• Star Fox launches exclusively for Switch 2 on June 25.

Surprise Reveal of Star Fox Remake

Nintendo has unveiled an ambitious remake of its classic space combat title, Star Fox, for the upcoming Switch 2 console. The announcement arrived via a surprise, shadow-dropped Nintendo Direct broadcast, catching fans and industry observers alike off guard. The game, simply titled Star Fox, is a complete reimagining of the Nintendo 64 original, Star Fox 64, a title known in some regions as Lylat Wars. This reveal follows a period of heightened anticipation for the franchise, marked by the character's recent appearance in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and a significant leak that hinted at a new game. The remake promises to bring the beloved Arwing battles back to the forefront, with players once again soaring through the skies of familiar planets alongside iconic companions Falco, Peppy, and Slippy. The game's existence was confirmed just minutes before a dedicated 15-minute broadcast began, which aired on YouTube and the Nintendo Today! app. The broadcast itself was only announced approximately ten minutes prior to its commencement, underscoring the secretive nature of the reveal.

Reimagining a Classic for a New Generation

Star Fox for Switch 2 retains the core on-rails shooting experience that defined its predecessor, allowing players to pilot their Arwing with familiar controls for boosting, braking, and performing the signature barrel roll. However, the game has undergone a substantial graphical overhaul, presenting the beloved universe with modern fidelity. Familiar gameplay elements, including sections piloting the Landmaster ground tank and the Blue-Marine submarine, are set to return, offering a comprehensive Star Fox experience. Nintendo has also introduced fresh narrative content, with new cutscenes designed to expand upon the game's existing story and deepen character interactions. The campaign mode will offer multiple difficulty settings, including easy, normal, and a challenging hard mode that removes the ability to continue after a Game Over, testing the mettle of even veteran players. Beyond the main campaign, a robust Challenge mode allows players to revisit levels with unique objectives not present in the original game. An Expert difficulty is also available for those seeking an ultimate test. The visual presentation of characters like Fox, Falco, Peppy, and Slippy has been updated to appear more animalistic, a notable departure from their previous iterations.

Expanded Multiplayer and Control Options

The remake significantly bolsters its multiplayer offerings, introducing new ways for players to engage with the Star Fox universe. A Battle mode allows for head-to-head competition against the rival Star Wolf team. These battles can be contested online, locally via GameShare, or through an online GameShare option that incorporates GameChat functionality. Map objectives vary depending on the chosen planet. On Corneria, players will vie for zone control, while on the frigid world of Fichina, the objective is to collect energy crystals while evading hazardous meteorites. Deep space missions in Sector Y will task players with collecting vital cargo. Innovations in control schemes aim to cater to a wider audience. The game will feature Switch 2 mouse controls, offering a new precision option. Furthermore, a two-player co-op mode allows friends to share a single Joy-Con, with one player managing the Arwing's movement and the other handling the ship's weaponry. For those seeking a nostalgic touch, the game will also support the Nintendo 64 controller.

Context and Franchise Resurgence

This announcement marks a significant moment for the Star Fox franchise, which has seen limited new releases in recent years. The game's reveal follows weeks of persistent rumors circulating about a new entry in the series, which have now been confirmed as accurate. The timing aligns with a broader resurgence of interest in Nintendo's iconic characters, exemplified by Fox McCloud's recent prominent role in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, where he was voiced by actor Glen Powell. The game's development appears to be a ground-up effort, differentiating it from previous iterations and suggesting a commitment to revitalizing the series. While other rumored remakes, such as one for Ocarina of Time, remain unconfirmed, the Star Fox announcement signals Nintendo's continued investment in its established intellectual properties. The release date for Star Fox is set for June 25, exclusively on the Switch 2. This exclusive launch platform underscores Nintendo's strategy of leveraging its hardware for its flagship titles, aiming to drive adoption of its next-generation console.

The bottom line

• A full remake of Star Fox 64, titled Star Fox, is coming to Nintendo Switch 2.
• The game features enhanced graphics, new story content, and expanded multiplayer modes.
• Players can experience familiar Arwing combat alongside Landmaster and Blue-Marine sections.
• New control options, including mouse support and local co-op, have been added.
• The remake supports both modern and retro controller options.
• Star Fox launches exclusively for Switch 2 on June 25.