I Wasn't Excited About the Star Fox Remake Until I Played the Switch 2 Demo

June 5, 2026 - 18:50

I was ready to roll my eyes at another Star Fox 64 re-release. After all, Nintendo has dusted off this particular corner of the Lylat system more times than Fox McCloud has said "Do a barrel roll." The announcement of a Star Fox remake for the Switch 2 felt like a safe, predictable move rather than an exciting one. But then I actually played the demo.

The moment the demo booted up, my cynicism started to fade. This is not a simple port or a lazy upscale. The visuals are a genuine, gorgeous overhaul. The original polygonal look is gone, replaced with crisp textures, smooth models, and vibrant lighting that makes Corneria feel alive. The Arwing handles with the same tight, responsive feel that made the 1997 original a classic, but it looks like a modern game. The frame rate is buttery smooth, which is critical for a game that demands split-second reflexes.

What surprised me most is how well the core design holds up. The branching paths, the medal system, and the sheer variety of gameplay modes -- from all-range dogfights to the submarine sections -- still feel fresh. It is a reminder that Star Fox 64 was not just a good game for its time; it is a timeless arcade shooter that was refined to perfection. If the full game delivers on the promise of this demo, then maybe a remake of a remake is exactly what the Switch 2 needed. It is a gorgeous update to a classic that proves some things do not need to be reinvented. They just need to be polished.