Nintendo announced a surprise remake of Star Fox 64 for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console during a livestream on Wednesday [1].
The announcement marks a significant return for the franchise, which has seen limited activity since the Wii U era. By leveraging next-generation hardware, Nintendo aims to bring a classic title to a modern audience with a complete overhaul of the game's presentation [2].
This project is the first new Star Fox release since 2016, when the company launched Star Fox Zero and Star Fox Guard for the Wii U [3]. While the series saw the release of Star Fox 2 in 2017 [4], the upcoming remake represents a larger effort to revitalize the property for the Switch 2 platform [1].
Reports indicate the game is expected to launch in summer 2026 [5]. The remake will target the capabilities of the new hardware to modernize the experience of the original 64-bit era title [2].
Some industry reports have differed on whether the title is a direct remake or a brand-new entry in the series [6]. However, the Nintendo Direct specifically highlighted the Star Fox 64 remake as a centerpiece of the reveal [7].
Nintendo has not yet detailed the specific gameplay changes accompanying the visual overhaul, but the company said the title will be a primary focus for the Switch 2 launch window [2].
“Nintendo announced a surprise remake of Star Fox 64 for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console.”
The decision to lead a next-gen hardware reveal with a remake of a 1997 classic suggests Nintendo is leaning into nostalgia to drive early adoption of the Switch 2. By reviving a dormant franchise like Star Fox, the company is attempting to bridge the gap between its legacy fanbase and new players while testing the technical capabilities of its new console.
