A Surprise Remake of Starfox 64 Announced for Nintendo Switch 2 in a 17-Minute Video

Nintendo has officially announced Star Fox for the Nintendo Switch 2, revealing the game through a 17-minute video shared on social media and YouTube. This announcement confirms previous rumors from insider NateTheHate, solidifying his reliability for game leaks. The arrival of a new Star Fox title is now a reality, with an imminent release scheduled for June 25, 2026. Titled simply Star Fox, the game represents a fresh take on Star Fox 64 (known as Lylat Wars in some regions). After nearly a decade since the last significant news about the franchise, this installment offers an updated version of the Nintendo 64 classic. It features sleek graphics, contemporary controls, and additional elements such as new cutscenes and a full voice cast, complemented by a fresh orchestral soundtrack. Air combat can be controlled using mouse-like inputs. The game's introduction was unveiled during the Star Fox Direct event, hosted by Shigeru Miyamoto and Yoshiaki Koizumi. The campaign includes a tougher difficulty setting and a battle mode where players can face off against the Star Wolf team. Furthermore, the original N64 version of Star Fox 64 will be playable on the Switch 2, compatible with the dedicated Nintendo 64 controller.

At its core, Star Fox is a remake of Lylat Wars, the Nintendo 64 episode that has seen several rereleases. This new version boasts a significant graphical overhaul and introduces unprecedented features. For instance, the Joy-Con's "mouse mode" allows for more precise aiming at enemies. The game also integrates a "Gamechat" option, which Nintendo terms "Vtubing," allowing players' facial expressions to be reproduced on the in-game characters via a compatible camera. This means Fox McCloud's reactions can mirror those of the player. Parallel to the main campaign, a challenge mode will enable players to replay levels freely with additional objectives and scores to optimize across normal or expert difficulties. The multiplayer mode returns with 4v4 team battles between the Star Fox and Star Wolf teams on three maps: Corneria (focused on capturing radio towers), Vichinia (retrieving energy sources while avoiding meteorites), and Sector Y (securing a special package). Nintendo also confirms online play with public matches and private lobbies, as well as a local "Game Share" system, requiring only one cartridge for four players.

The release date for Star Fox is set for June 25, 2026, on Nintendo Switch 2. It will be compatible with the dedicated Nintendo 64 controller rereleased for the console. This reimagined version of Star Fox 64 adds a cinematic twist to the original with a full next-gen makeover. The digital version of Star Fox will cost $49.99, with the physical copy priced at $59.99 in the U.S. The developers have incorporated difficulty settings into the game. In multiplayer, 4v4 fights can occur between characters from both the Star Fox and Star Wolf teams. The "Mouse Mode" offers precise flying and targeting. The Game Share feature is also included, allowing one player to use the mouse while another uses traditional Joy-Con controls if playing with a friend. Additionally, a USB camera can be used to apply players' faces as in-game filters to characters like Fox and his crew.

Star Fox Direct Reveals Animalistic Redesign and Emphasis on Story for Nintendo Switch, Spotlighting James McCloud's Prologue

The game was unveiled unexpectedly through a Star Fox Direct presentation on the Nintendo Today app. The new design provides characters like Fox, Falco, Peppy, and Slippy with a more animalistic look. This installment places a greater emphasis on story, featuring fresh cutscenes and cinematics. The Star Fox Direct concluded with a prologue focusing on James McCloud, Fox's father.