The possibility of a new Star Fox game may finally be on the horizon—and if the latest industry chatter holds any weight, Nintendo could be preparing to revive one of its most neglected franchises.
According to a report from Video Games Chronicle, which cites well-known Nintendo insider NateTheHate, a new Star Fox game is reportedly in development for the Nintendo Switch 2, with a potential release window targeting summer 2026. As of now, however, it’s critical to note that Nintendo has made no official announcement, and all details remain firmly in the realm of rumor.
Still, the claims are specific enough—and the timing interesting enough—that fans are paying attention.
What the Rumor Actually Claims
During a recent discussion, NateTheHate reportedly stated: “Star Fox is coming back in summer 2026. We’re getting a new Star Fox game in the very near future.”
He also added that the rumored project would lean into the franchise’s roots rather than reinventing the wheel.
The Star Fox Team in Star Fox 64 – Nintendo
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“I’ve been told it’s a classic style Star Fox game, he said. Visuals are supposed to be very good… [and] it does have online multiplayer.”
If accurate, that “classic style” detail may be the most important piece of the entire rumor.
Because if there’s one thing Nintendo has struggled with when it comes to Star Fox, it’s knowing when not to tinker with a formula that already worked.
A Franchise That Lost Its Way
For longtime fans, the idea of a new Star Fox game returning to its original on-rails shooter gameplay is likely to be welcome news.
The last major entry, Star Fox Zero, attempted to reinvent the experience with motion controls and dual-screen mechanics. The result? A game that felt more like a tech demo than a true evolution of the franchise.
And since then… nothing.
Fox McCloud – Nintendo
No meaningful follow-up. No reboot. No clear direction.
A series that once stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Mario, Zelda, and Metroid has spent nearly a decade drifting in the background.
That’s not because fans lost interest—it’s because Nintendo never seemed to settle on what Star Fox should be.
Why This Timing Raises Eyebrows
What makes this rumor more intriguing than your standard internet speculation is how it lines up with broader moves involving the character.
Fox McCloud is confirmed to appear in the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy Movie, played by Glen Powell, signaling that Nintendo may be looking to reintroduce the character to a wider audience beyond gaming.
Fox McCloud and Glen Powell – Nintendo; YouTube, GQ
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If that’s the case, launching a new Star Fox game alongside—or shortly after—that appearance would be highly strategic.
Nintendo has already shown with The Super Mario Bros. Movie that it’s thinking in terms of ecosystems, not isolated projects. Characters move between games and films, reinforcing each other.
Bringing Star Fox back into that mix would make sense.
This Is Still a Rumor
Before anyone starts celebrating, it’s worth repeating: there is no official confirmation from Nintendo.
Everything here stems from insider claims and secondary reporting. Plans change, and projects often get delayed—or scrapped entirely.
And while NateTheHate has had accurate information in the past, that doesn’t make this a guarantee.
The Real Question Nintendo Has to Answer
If this rumor does turn out to be true, the success of a new Star Fox won’t hinge on graphics or multiplayer.
It’ll come down to something much simpler: Does Nintendo finally understand what made Star Fox work in the first place?
Fox in Starfox 64 – Nintendo
Because fans aren’t asking for a reinvention. They’re asking for a return. And after nearly a decade of silence, that might be the biggest challenge of all.
Do you want to see a new Star Fox game? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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