Star Fox is an upcoming 2026 rail shooter game published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch 2. It is the first major Star Fox game since Star Fox Zero (2016) and a reboot of the series as a whole. The second remake of Star Fox 64 (1997), it expands on the original game’s level design, story, and gameplay mechanics, while introducing new character designs. The game is set for release worldwide on June 25, 2026.
Gameplay
Star Fox is a third-person rail shooter in which players control a variety of vehicles piloted by Fox McCloud. Fox, the son of the late leader of the original Star Fox team, James McCloud, leads the new Star Fox team in a mission to stop the evil mad scientist, Dr. Andross, from destroying the Lylat System.
As a remake of Star Fox 64, it retains similar gameplay and controls. Controlling the Arwing, players automatically progress through the level. They must defend themselves against enemies and their surroundings, using offensive means such as lasers and bombs, or employ defensive moves like a somersault or a spin to deflect incoming projectiles.
Star Fox is divided into levels that incorporate plot elements in which players’ actions alter the story’s outcome and the campaign’s overall progression. During these levels, players are limited to a shield and a boost that can be restored by collecting gold and silver rings scattered throughout the level. Optional tasks unique to each level can be completed for other rewards. Similar to Star Fox 64 and its first remake, Star Fox 64 3D (2011), the campaign supports three difficulties.
Two multiplayer modes are included. In a competitive mode, players are separated into the Star Fox and Star Wolf teams. In co-op mode, two players can play the campaign, one player acting as the pilot and the other acting as the gunner. In both the single-player and co-op campaigns, a Joy-Con 2 can be used in mouse mode to target and shoot at enemies. Additionally, the Nintendo 64 Wireless Controller is also supported.
Star Fox supports the GameChat feature of the Switch 2, both for in-game multiplayer and general video chat. Players can use a filter for any Star Fox team member on their webcam. The game also supports GameShare, allowing the game to be played with users of the original Switch.
Development and release
In March 2026, industry insiders and journalists, primarily podcaster NateTheHate and Video Games Chronicle, reported that a classic-style Star Fox game was in development for a mid-year release, following Fox McCloud’s appearance in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026). Star Fox was announced in a surprise Nintendo Direct on May 7, 2026, which itself was announced ten minutes before it was broadcast. It is a remake of the Nintendo 64 game Star Fox 64 (1997), itself a reboot of the original Star Fox (1993). 64 was previously remade as Star Fox 64 3D (2011) and reimagined as Star Fox Zero (2016), making Star Fox the fifth title to tell the series’ original plot. Star Fox expands on the original game’s level design, story, and gameplay, and introduces new character designs. It is scheduled for release on the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 25, 2026, in most markets, and in South Korea on July 2, 2026. Ten music tracks from the game were added to the Nintendo Music app on May 8.
Reception
Pre-release
Star Fox‘s reveal received mixed reactions, with criticism for the more realistic art style and character redesigns. Some fans questioned the decision to remake Star Fox 64 again after the franchise’s decade-long hiatus. In contrast, the new gameplay features and visual quality received praise.
Takaya Imamura, the Star Fox team’s original character designer, said he preferred Fox’s design in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, but was nonetheless supportive of the 2026 game, praising its clear direction. He also revealed that the 2026 title’s designs were “exactly” what he had in mind when designing for Star Fox 64, also stating: “no matter what style or arrangement they take on, the moment these four come together, they’re instantly recognised as Star Fox”.
Notes
References
External links
- Official website (in Japanese)
Gamer24h Editor's Take
Having closely reviewed Star Fox, the Gamer24h editorial team considers it one of the most noteworthy titles of recent times. The visionary approach of developer Nintendo, combined with the expertise of publisher Nintendo, has resulted in an exceptionally refined product. Its innovative take on the Rail shooter, shoot 'em up genre offers a breath of fresh air for fans of the category. If you're looking for an absorbing world and satisfying mechanics that pull you right in, this game might be exactly what you've been searching for.