Star Fox: The Future of the Franchise and Rumors of a New Game

The Star Fox franchise, which began in 1993 with the release of the original Star Fox on the Super Nintendo, has since built a rich history. The series, known for its unique on-rails space shooter gameplay, has produced several successful titles, including the beloved Star Fox 64. Currently, there is much talk about a new Star Fox game planned for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. This development raises questions about the direction the franchise will take. Below, we discuss the evolution of Star Fox, along with hopes and expectations regarding the upcoming game.

History of Star Fox

The Early Years: From Super Nintendo to Nintendo 64

Star Fox made its debut on the Super Nintendo in 1993. The game was groundbreaking for its time, utilizing rudimentary 3D technology to make the effects of space combat tangible. The main character of the franchise, Fox McCloud, leads a team of anthropomorphic space fighters, including Peppy Hare, Falco Lombardi, and Slippy Toad. The success of the first game led to several sequels.

In 1997, audiences were introduced to Star Fox 64, a title that many consider the best game in the series. It introduced deeper gameplay elements, such as fully 3D dogfight phases and multiple storylines that encouraged players to replay the game multiple times. This title set the standard for on-rails shooters and remains a favorite among fans.

The Modern Era: Star Fox Zero and Re-releases

The last major release, Star Fox Zero, came out in 2016 for the Wii U. Although the game showcased the innovative use of the Wii U GamePad, it received mixed reactions from critics and fans due to its controls and gameplay. Between Star Fox Zero and the rumors of a new game in 2026, Star Fox 2, initially an unreleased title, was released in 2017 as part of the Super NES Classic Edition. This game is also currently available for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers, allowing older players to enjoy the franchise once again.

Rumors About the New Star Fox Game

Changes and Refinements

With the upcoming Star Fox game for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, there are already various rumors about what players can expect. A key ambition is that this game will...