“Do a barrel roll!” Those words echo through my mind like a gentle breeze passing through a beautiful meadow. I know I’m not alone. Peppy Hare’s urgent instructions live in gaming history. But soon they’ll once again be a part of gaming’s present. Nintendo has announced that Fox McCloud and friends will return this summer with an all new cinematic Star Fox game for the Switch 2.
Nintendo latest Direct presentation revealed that everyone’s favorite fighter pilot (and recent star of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie) will once again take to the skies with his team. The company calls the new Star Fox “an action-packed adventure” that is—gloriously—based on the Nintendo 64’s iconic Star Fox 64. But this entry will still offer plenty of new experiences. It will feature new gameplay modes, including 4-vs-4 multiplayer Battle Mode, alongside returning ones.
As for the game itself, it will send Fox, Peppy, Falco, and Slippy on a “dangerous mission to save the Lylat System – which can now be explored in greater detail thanks to a complete visual overhaul of the game.” And yes, a certain maneuver will definitely be a part of a winning repertoire. From Nintendo’s press release:
Maniacal scientist Andross seeks control of the Lylat star system, and only Fox McCloud and the Star Fox team stand in his way. Pilot your Arwing and travel the system battling opposing forces and performing thrilling aerial maneuvers, like barrel rolls and somersaults, to shake off enemies.
In addition to a more cinematic style and playthrough, Star Fox Star Fox will also feature “newly overhauled character designs, freshly revamped looks for each stage, plus detailed cutscenes, fully voiced dialogue and a sweeping orchestral soundtrack.” Gamers will also be able to use the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls and a brand-new GameChat that lets you sit in the cockpit as your flyer.
But maybe the best news of all is that we won’t have long to wait to take off again. Star Fox ($49.99) on Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 25. Okay, that’s the second best news. Nothing will beat hearing Peppy utter those iconic instructions again.