Early Previews: Star Fox on Switch 2 Faithful to Star Fox 64

Early previews for Star Fox on Nintendo’s Switch 2, due June 25, report that the remake reproduces the original game’s stages while adding modern updates to controls, graphics and narrative elements.

Hands-on impressions point to tightened controls and smoother Arwing handling. Reviewers cited higher-resolution models, improved lighting and an orchestral soundtrack as notable visual and audio upgrades.

The release includes new cutscenes and expanded mission briefings intended to clarify story beats. Preview accounts singled out an added opening Corneria sequence that introduces a call between Fox and General Pepper before the first mission.

A new Pilot and Gunner co-op mode places one player in the pilot seat and another at the gunner station. Early impressions described the mode as intense and a distinct form of two-player cooperation.

Some previewers cautioned that expanded characterisation in the new cutscenes changes the tone of certain squad members and may differ from players’ memories of the original. Other commentary raised questions about the number of remakes revisiting the 1997 title rather than delivering a new mainline entry.

Nintendo confirmed the June 25 launch for Switch 2. Reviewers who tested the game on the new hardware reported stable performance during their sessions, with full review coverage and broader testing expected closer to release.

Star Fox 64 originally launched on the Nintendo 64. The series has not released a new mainline Star Fox game in almost a decade. The Switch 2 edition updates the rail-shooter experience for current consoles while keeping the original level designs.

One hands-on preview described the Switch 2 edition as ‘may very well be the best version of a beloved game yet.’