Star Fox for Nintendo Switch 2: what we know so far

Nintendo announced a new Star Fox game on May 6, 2026, simply titled Star Fox, and it launches on June 25, 2026, exclusively for Switch 2. The new game is a remake of the classic Star Fox 64 and brings updated visuals, extra story elements, and an online multiplayer mode. The announcement followed months of rumors and speculation about the return of the iconic franchise, which has not had a new mainline release since Star Fox Zero in 2016.

Announcement and release

The announcement of Star Fox took place during an unexpected Nintendo Direct, giving fans their first look at the game. The original gameplay remains intact, but the game has received a full visual overhaul with new character designs and additional cinematics, including pre-mission briefings to add more context for the characters and their adventures. This is the fourth time Star Fox 64 has been remade, and it remains a familiar experience for both new and returning players.

Gameplay and new features

Star Fox keeps the original level layouts from Star Fox 64, but adds new challenges and multiplayer options that were not available before. The game can be played with traditional joystick controls or mouse controls, creating an intuitive experience. There is also a co-op mode where two players can share a single Joy-Con: one player pilots the ship while the other handles the weapons.

One of the most talked-about additions is the new Battle Mode, where players face off against each other locally and online. The multiplayer experience will also use Nintendo Switch 2's AR features, allowing players to appear as Star Fox characters during chat sessions.

Design changes and fan feedback

One notable part of the announcement was the debate around the new photorealistic character designs, which have not been received positively by everyone. Takaya Imamura, the original designer of the Star Fox characters, said he preferred the depiction of Fox McCloud in the recent Super Mario Galaxy Movie over the new game design. Many fans on social media have voiced frustration that the new versions lack the 'swagger' and expressiveness that defined the characters in earlier appearances.

Pricing and outlook

Nintendo has confirmed that the digital version of Star Fox will cost $49.99, while the physical edition will be priced at $59.99. This pricing model may be a strategic move in light of the current economic climate and the need to stay attractive to consumers. The price gap also encourages digital sales, which appears to be a growing trend in the games industry.

With the announced release date of June 25, 2026, many players are looking forward to this new take on the beloved franchise. This remains a key moment for Nintendo, which also has other major summer 2026 releases planned alongside Star Fox.

The return of Star Fox is an important step for both Nintendo and fans of the genre, and the potential for future games in the franchise could breathe new life into this long-awaited series.