Star Fox Soars Onto Switch 2 as a Gorgeous Reboot of a Classic

Do a Barrel Roll — Star Fox Is Back, Baby!

Okay, fellow space pilots, strap into the cockpit, because one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises just made a triumphant return. As of June 25, 2026, Star Fox has launched worldwide on Nintendo Switch 2, and it is a gorgeous, lovingly crafted reboot of the 1997 classic that taught a whole generation the importance of a well-timed barrel roll. Reviews dropped the day before launch, and the vibes are *immaculate*.

For the uninitiated: Star Fox is Nintendo's high-speed space-combat series, where you pilot a fighter craft through cinematic on-rails missions, blasting baddies and pulling off slick aerial maneuvers. This new entry is a reimagining of the legendary Star Fox 64, and developer Velan Studios clearly understood the assignment.

A Glow-Up Worthy of the Legend

Let's talk about how this thing looks, because *wow*. VGC's Andy Robinson called it "one of the best-looking Nintendo games ever," and that tracks — the new art style gives the classic dogfights a fresh, vibrant sheen while keeping that unmistakable Star Fox personality. There are extended cinematic cutscenes, branching paths that change your route through the campaign, and multiple difficulty levels so newcomers and grizzled veterans alike can find their groove. It's currently sitting around a lovely 81 on Metacritic, which is exactly the warm reception a comeback like this deserves.

New Tricks for a New Generation

This isn't just a nostalgia coat of paint — Velan Studios packed in genuinely fresh modes. There's a co-op campaign where one player flies and another mans the guns (chaotic couch fun, here we come), and a competitive multiplayer mode pitting the Star Fox squad against their rivals. The Switch 2's Joy-Con 2 brings mouse-mode targeting for precision aiming, GameChat video integration for hanging out with your wingmates, and a Challenge Mode for when you want to flex.

Why This Reboot Hits Different

Here's what I love about this one. Reviving a classic franchise is a tightrope walk — go too safe and it's lifeless, go too wild and you lose what made it special. Star Fox on Switch 2 nails the balance: it honors the structure and spirit of the original while building in modern features like co-op and competitive play that give it real staying power. That's a love letter to longtime fans *and* a genuine on-ramp for new pilots.

A Great Moment for Switch 2 Owners

As a flagship-feeling exclusive, this is a fantastic showcase for what the new hardware can do, and a reminder of why these revivals matter. There's something wonderful about a franchise that defined a childhood getting a second life that new players can fall in love with for the first time.

The Takeaway

Star Fox on Nintendo Switch 2 is everything a beloved-franchise reboot should be: stunning visuals, faithful gameplay, smart new co-op and competitive modes, and a warm critical welcome. Whether you've been doing barrel rolls since 1997 or you're climbing into the cockpit for the very first time, the skies are calling. See you out there, Star Fox team!

Sources: Video Games Chronicle — Star Fox (Switch 2) review — June 24, 2026; Star Fox (2026 video game) launch coverage — June 25, 2026.