Nintendo unveils Star Fox remake for Switch 2 in surprise Direct reveal
A modernised take on the classic N64 shooter launches on June 25, featuring interactive avatars and a submarine vehicle alongside the original dogfighting mechanics.
Nintendo has confirmed a new entry in the Star Fox franchise for the Nintendo Switch 2, revealing the title during a surprise Direct presentation. The game, simply titled Star Fox, is scheduled to launch on 25 June and marks the first new release in the series for a decade.
The announcement clarifies that the project is a modern remake rather than a direct port of the 1997 classic, Star Fox 64. While it retains the original level design and in-ship banter, the title features redesigned characters and significantly upgraded visuals. Early impressions highlight detailed character models, including a notably realistic depiction of Slippy Toad.
In terms of gameplay, the reboot introduces several new elements beyond traditional aerial combat. Players can now pilot a submarine vehicle and utilise mouse controls for navigation. The online component has also been expanded with a new four-on-four dogfighting multiplayer battle mode, adding a competitive layer to the single-player experience.
A standout feature in the online mode is the inclusion of interactive avatars. These digital representations mirror the player's facial expressions and movements via GameChat, creating a more immersive social environment during multiplayer sessions. Nintendo has not yet detailed the specific data protocols used for this functionality.
For purists seeking the original hardware experience, the game will support the N64 controller. This option ensures that players can access the franchise's legacy mechanics without relying on the Switch 2's native controls, bridging the gap between modern enhancements and retro authenticity.
The reveal arrives amidst a relatively sparse schedule of first-party titles for the remainder of 2026. Alongside Star Fox, the confirmed lineup for the period includes Yoshi, Rhythm Heaven Groove, Splatoon Raiders, and Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave. Prior to this announcement, Fox McCloud's appearance in the Super Mario Galaxy movie had already served as a subtle tease for the upcoming project.
