Fox McCloud Returns to the Cockpit as Nintendo Revives a Legendary Space Shooter on June 25, 2026!
Do a barrel roll! After years of waiting, Star Fox fans finally have something to look forward to. Nintendo is bringing Fox McCloud and the Star Fox team back into the spotlight with a cinematic reimagining of the classic Star Fox 64, launching exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 25, 2026. No Rumble Pak required!
Nintendo describes the game as a... visually overhauled adventure featuring fully voiced dialogue, an orchestral soundtrack, new cinematics, and expanded gameplay modes while preserving the beloved journey through the Lylat System. So it's somewhere in-between Star Fox 64 remastered and a Star Fox 64 remake, repackaged as... Star Fox.
For longtime fans, this looks like the most polished version of Star Fox yet. You'll once again climb into the Arwing cockpit alongside Fox McCloud, Falco Lombardi, Peppy Hare, and Slippy Toad as they battle the evil scientist Andross and his invading forces. Nintendo has rebuilt the experience specifically for Switch 2 hardware, adding enhanced visuals and online multiplayer support while staying faithful to the original game's fast-paced arcade-style action.
What makes this release particularly exciting is that it could serve as a major reintroduction of the franchise to a new generation of players. Star Fox has been one of Nintendo's most recognizable sci-fi series for decades, but it has spent much of the last ten years sitting quietly in the hangar. Now, the team is preparing to take off with more depth than ever, and fans are hoping this launch proves there's still plenty of fuel left in the franchise. Luckily, there's a Star Fox Direct! Grab a snack and press play!
If you're already planning to jump into the cockpit on day one, now may be a good time to lock in your copy. Some retailers are currently offering discounts that can save players approximately 17% off the standard price of a physical copy, making launch day a little easier on the wallet. As always, pricing and availability can change, so don't wait too long if you're interested.
Don't Have a Switch 2? Don't Sleep on Starlink: Battle for Atlas
Not everyone will be ready to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2 this year, and some gamers with the console or the original Switch may simply not have the budget for a brand-new Star Fox release. Fortunately, there's another option that deserves far more attention than it gets.
If you've never played Starlink Battle for Atlas on Nintendo Switch, you're missing out on one of the best modern Star Fox experiences available. The Switch version includes an exclusive Star Fox campaign that integrates Fox McCloud and the Star Fox crew directly into the adventure. Rather than feeling like a simple guest appearance, it feels like a genuine Star Fox experience that captures much of what fans love about the series. I've logged some serious play time in Starlink BFA and looked forward to taking flight whenever I had the chance because the fun factor is strong.
If you're primarily looking for exciting space combat and exploration rather than specifically playing as Fox McCloud, Starlink is also available on other platforms. The game's open-world space exploration, customizable ships, and dogfighting action still provide plenty of opportunities to scratch that starfighter itch.
So whether you're preparing to soar through the Lylat System with Fox and the gang this June or revisiting the stars through Starlink's universe, there has rarely been a better time to be a fan of awesome... space adventures. Starlink Battle For Atlas is open world from planet side to flying among the stars... and the transition is seamless as you explore the different worlds. This article isn't about Starlink, but... this is an undeniable alternative to fill that void. And yes... your team is on deck!
Prepare for Launch
The countdown is almost over. On June 25, 2026, players will once again hear the familiar voices of Star Fox Team members calling out across the radio while lasers light up the skies of the Lylat System. Whether you're a veteran pilot who grew up with Star Fox 64 or a newcomer curious about one of Nintendo's most iconic franchises, this summer's return of Star Fox looks ready for takeoff.
Strap in, check your shields, and prepare for flight. Star Fox is headed our way, and the Lylat System needs saving once again. You ready?
+ Sophi