It’s been ten years since a new Star Fox game, and while Nintendo has brought the series back, the response hasn’t been entirely positive. This new version is another reimagining, which has disappointed fans who were hoping for a direct sequel. Though the Switch 2 version boasts improved visuals and updated controls, many are skeptical due to the series’ history. However, our list of fifteen features shows that this remake is more than just a simple update – it’s adding significant new content.
Another Version of 1993’s SNES Original
As a huge fan, I always loved the story of the original Star Fox on SNES, and Star Fox 64 really expanded on that, making it feel bigger and more immersive. That’s the version the new remake is based on, which is awesome! We got a really solid 3DS port with Star Fox 64 3D a while back, but Star Fox Zero on the Wii U… well, it tried to retell the same story, but the gameplay was a bit wonky. Now, this new Star Fox game feels different. It’s just called Star Fox, which makes it feel like a fresh start, and it’s a beautiful, cinematic take on the classic on-rails shooter. They’ve kept the levels I know and love, but everything looks and plays so much better with updated graphics, controls, and character models. I’m really excited to see where they take the series from here!
Redesigned Character Models
Among Star Fox’s most polarising modernisations is its character models, redesigned to look realistically grizzled and roadworn compared to Fox McCloud’s cartoonish turn in the recent Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Still, the rest of Team Star Fox joining leader McCloud comprise sarcastic piloting ace Falco Lombardi, experienced strategist Peppy Hare, and care-free mechanic Slippy Toad, with their portrayals here a thorough facelift over their N64 appearances. Community reaction is far from unanimously positive, but Star Fox 64 art director Takaya Imamura appears to have warmed up, describing McCloud and his crew’s modern looks as matching his original, then-unattainable vision.
Audio Significantly Overhauled
Nintendo isn’t just giving Star Fox a visual upgrade with a more cinematic look; they’re also completely revamping the sound. The game will feature a newly recorded orchestral soundtrack, improved sound effects, and fresh voice acting – all designed to update the experience while keeping the fast-paced, arcade-style feel. A new audio system will also create more immersive sound, letting you pinpoint where sounds are coming from and helping you stay aware of everything happening on screen, even during chaotic battles.
Arwing Starfighter: Your Primary Gameplay Vehicle
The biggest improvements in Star Fox are definitely the sound and graphics. You’ll once again pilot the Arwing, Team Star Fox’s adaptable starfighter, as you travel through the Lylat System. The Arwing is designed for both space and atmospheric flight, moving with incredible speed and agility – it’s as nimble as a mosquito! It’s equipped with a laser cannon that can be charged to fire a guided shot. Performing barrel rolls at the right time creates shields that deflect enemy fire, and smart bombs offer a powerful way to deal with large groups of enemies or tough bosses.
Landmaster Tank Returns for Ground Assaults
Okay, so most of the game is about awesome dogfights in the air, but every now and then, things switch up and I get to pilot the Landmaster. It’s this super-tough, all-terrain tank! These sections are a bit slower-paced, and I have to really focus on taking out enemies coming at me from all sides while driving across rough ground. It’s got a laser cannon that feels a lot like the Arwing’s, plus lock-on missiles. Surprisingly, it’s even got some of the Arwing’s agility with rolls and the ability to hover, which is pretty cool!
Blue-Marine Submersible Missions
Alongside the Landmaster, also returning from Star Fox 64 are the sub-aquatic missions featuring the Blue-Marine, a specialised submersible deployed in the deep-sea trenches of underwater stages. These sections emphasise limited visibility, bringing a slightly more methodical approach to shooting. So, whilst the Arwing’s laser is loaded here, the Blue-Marine is equipped with “Light Bomb” torpedoes which must be locked-on before launching, illuminating the surrounding ocean as they shoot toward enemy ships. And, the laser isn’t the only carry-over from the Arwing; the Blue-Marine can also execute the starfighter’s signature, forcefield-emitting barrel roll.
New Cutscenes Expand the Story
Okay, so the main story is one I already knew, but this remake really surprised me! They added a ton of new cutscenes – like, completely new mission briefings and backstory stuff. It really helps build out the world of Star Fox and makes you care more about the characters. It’s clear Nintendo is trying to make this version feel like a real cinematic experience, and these additions definitely do that – they give Team Star Fox so much more depth and make you understand why they’re doing what they’re doing.
Branching Paths and Stage Variety
Although Star Fox takes you on a straightforward journey through space, visiting various planets, asteroid fields, space stations, and nebulae, how you get there isn’t always fixed. Your performance – like how many enemies you defeat or objectives you complete – can alter your path through the Lylat System, unlocking secrets and new routes if you play again. This branching gameplay is a key reason to replay the game, and the remake adds even more replay value with a new game mode.
Challenge Mode Incentivises Replay
Besides the main story, Challenge Mode lets you replay levels you’ve already finished, but with new goals. These challenges include things like defeating a lot of enemies, taking down multiple foes with one shot, or maxing out your equipment. It’s a clever way to enjoy the game’s fast-paced action and could attract more players by giving them reasons to replay levels beyond just trying to get a high score.
Expanded Battle Mode
Star Fox now features a multiplayer mode called Battle Mode, where two teams of four players – Team Star Fox and Team Star Wolf – compete in dogfights. Battles take place in one of three arenas, each with unique objectives like controlling zones, collecting crystals, or transporting cargo, in addition to the usual ship-to-ship combat. You can play with friends and family locally, find matches online, or create private online sessions. Thanks to GameShare, even players who don’t own the game can join in on the local multiplayer fun.
Three Distinct Difficulty Modes
The remake offers three difficulty levels to appeal to both longtime fans of Star Fox and those new to arcade-style shooting games. The easy mode makes the game more forgiving with increased shield strength and reduced enemy damage. The difficulty then increases with the normal setting, and players can unlock an expert mode for a real challenge. Surviving the intense battles, tough collisions, and permadeath in expert mode unlocks special medals and allows players to compete on leaderboards.
Mouse Controls and Co-Op Play
One of the remake’s modern additions is mouse-style aiming support, offering a more precise targeting method if that’s your preference. This control scheme also enables a two-player co-op mode, where one player manoeuvres the Arwing while the other focuses exclusively on shooting, providing a clever way to encourage collaboration on the Switch 2 which wasn’t possible in earlier versions.
N64 Controller Compatibility
Fans of the original game will be happy to know this remake works with the Nintendo 64 controller, recreating the classic control scheme, feel, and look of the 1997 version. While most players will probably prefer the updated controls, the N64 controller option is a strong draw for longtime fans who want to relive their childhood experience with Star Fox 64.
GameChat Avatar Integration
The new Star Fox game takes advantage of the Switch 2’s Character Avatars, letting you customize how you appear during online chats with looks inspired by the game. When used with a compatible camera, these avatars track your facial expressions and head movements, creating a surprisingly realistic effect. It’s a purely cosmetic feature, but it adds a fun and immersive element to online play.
Switch 2 Exclusive
Star Fox releases on June 25th, and it’s a Switch 2 exclusive at launch. Taking advantage of the Nintendo’s latest hardware to deliver visual and audio overhauls means it won’t be available on the original Switch; is this another point of contention amongst the community who would prefer a sequel?
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2026-06-11 20:19