As a huge Star Fox fan, I’m really excited about the new remake coming in June 2026! The original game was amazing when it came out on Super Nintendo back in 1993 – it looked incredible for its time. But honestly, the series has gotten a little confusing over the years. It doesn’t really feel like a traditional series where each game continues the story. A lot of the bigger titles seem to revisit the original SNES game, kind of like alternate versions. Star Fox 64 felt like a fresh start, and then Star Fox Zero tried to reimagine that game, which was a bit strange.
It’s a bit strange that the new Switch 2 game is a remake of Star Fox 64. Knowing that, let’s rank all the Star Fox games to determine which one is the best overall, considering their stories, how they play, and how they look.
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4. Star Fox
Great For Its SNES Days
When Star Fox came out in 1993, it was visually impressive, especially considering the limited capabilities of consoles at the time. It created the illusion of 3D graphics by using a technique that made it seem like players were flying freely through levels, even though the movement was actually on a fixed path. Looking at it now, the game appears quite blocky, with simple, polygonal shapes. While it doesn’t stand up as a visual masterpiece compared to other SNES games, graphics aren’t the only thing that matter.
Star Fox is a challenging game, partly because the controls aren’t very fluid, and it can be difficult to distinguish enemies from allies during fast-paced action. The available powers are fairly simple – players unlock barrel rolls, lasers, and bombs as they play. However, the quirky, often nonsensical dialogue of the characters has become a beloved and recognizable part of the game for SNES fans, providing a unique inside joke for conversations. Despite being a technically groundbreaking and significant title for the SNES, Star Fox isn’t without its flaws.
3. Star Fox Zero
Weird Controls Sink This Arwing
While Star Fox Zero currently boasts the best graphics in the series, that will likely change when the 2026 remake is released. It’s also one of the few Wii U games never updated for the Switch. The game represented a significant technological upgrade from the Nintendo 64 (or even the 3DS), and all the levels were completely rebuilt with much more detail – Corneria, the first planet, especially feels like a real city instead of just basic shapes. New vehicles like the Walker, which allows for both aerial and ground combat, and the Gyrowing add some fresh gameplay, though they aren’t revolutionary.
While the updated graphics and new vehicles are nice, the game’s biggest issue is its reliance on motion controls using the Wii U GamePad. The TV shows the traditional game view, but the GamePad offers a first-person perspective that’s meant to make targeting easier. However, constantly switching your gaze between the TV and the GamePad is difficult for many players. Because there’s no way to disable the motion controls, Star Fox Zero remains a controversial title, especially considering the talented team at PlatinumGames helped Nintendo develop it.
2. Star Fox 64
A Reboot Still Fun To This Day
Star Fox 64 revitalized the series and remains its high point. It improved on previous games with more detailed levels and made it easier to distinguish your ship, the Arwing, from enemies. Though accidentally hitting friendly ships was still possible when assisting allies, at least they were now recognizable as ships. The game offered a fairer challenge than its predecessors, and while still relatively short—completable in under two hours—navigating the branching paths through the game’s planets became more straightforward.
The controls for the Arwing and other vehicles were improved in Star Fox 64, although it didn’t introduce many new abilities beyond lasers and bombs. While the characters’ quirky dialogue was a highlight, the voice acting itself was also enjoyable, creating memorable moments like the now-famous “Do a barrel roll!” quote. The game is still available to play on the Switch, but it remains a classic experience even on the original N64, where it stands out as one of the system’s best titles.
1. Star Fox 64 3D
Great Controls, Interface, And 3D Models
Unlike other versions, Star Fox 64 3D is a direct remake of the original Star Fox 64. It’s essentially the same game you played on the N64, but for the 3DS, with minor control adjustments and a few improvements to the user interface. Like many Nintendo games, it takes advantage of the 3DS’s 3D capabilities, and while it’s not the most impactful use of the effect, it still looks good.
The lower screen displays helpful messages from allies, adding to the feeling of being in the game. This would have been a real benefit in Star Fox Zero, but the required motion controls got in the way. While Star Fox 64 3D isn’t a massive leap forward from the original, it’s a technically improved game for anyone who still owns a 3DS and can find a copy of the cartridge. It boasts better controls, graphics, and sound without straying from the original’s core gameplay with unnecessary features. And, unlike some other games, the optional features like the 3D slider and motion controls don’t detract from the experience.
Upcoming Game: Star Fox (2026)
This is just a first look at the new game, and right now, Star Fox 64 3D still feels like the best version. However, the remake does have some interesting changes that some fans might not love. One big change is the character designs – they’ve been updated to look more like realistic animals instead of cartoonish ones. The graphics have also been significantly improved, surpassing everything seen in Star Fox Zero.
One of the exciting additions is GameChat, letting players translate their facial expressions and speech into their character’s movements during online multiplayer. The Switch 2 will also continue to offer GameShare, which remains a standout feature. In terms of gameplay, expect a similar experience – players will navigate the campaign using different vehicles, including the Arwing, and battle plenty of enemies and bosses. We’ll find out how the Star Fox remake stacks up when it releases on June 25th.
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2026-05-10 15:07