Velan Studios Is Developing the New Star Fox Remake for Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has confirmed that Velan Studios is the developer behind the new Star Fox remake for Nintendo Switch 2, adding a surprising name to one of the company’s returning franchises. The game now has a playable demo on Switch 2, giving players an early look before its full release on June 25, 2026.

The remake, simply titled Star Fox, was first revealed last month. The announcement itself was unexpected, although the timing made sense after Fox McCloud received renewed attention through Nintendo’s recent media push. Now, following the latest Nintendo Direct, players know more about the game and the studio responsible for bringing it back.

Velan Studios announced its involvement after the Direct, saying it had been working on the project for some time in partnership with Nintendo. The studio said it was proud to bring Fox McCloud and the rest of the Star Fox crew to Nintendo Switch 2.

Velan Studios brings its own tech to Star Fox

Velan Studios may not be the first developer fans would have guessed for a Star Fox remake, but the studio has experience with unusual gameplay concepts and Nintendo hardware. It previously worked with Nintendo on Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, the mixed reality racing game that used physical RC cars and the Nintendo Switch.

For Star Fox, Velan is using its proprietary VIPER engine. According to the studio, the engine allows the remake to run gameplay at 60 FPS, with all cinematics rendered in real time. That should help the game feel smoother and more consistent on Switch 2, especially for a series built around fast movement, shooting, and quick reactions.

The real time cinematics detail is especially notable because it suggests the remake will avoid the gap between gameplay and cutscenes that older games often had. For a space combat game, that could make transitions between missions, story scenes, and action feel more natural.

Star Fox returns at an important moment for Switch 2

Star Fox has been one of Nintendo’s most recognizable franchises for decades, but it has not had the same consistent presence as Mario, Zelda, or Metroid. Bringing the series back on Switch 2 gives Nintendo another classic name to use during the console’s early software cycle.

A remake is also a safer way to revive the franchise. Nintendo can reintroduce Fox McCloud to new players while giving longtime fans a familiar structure. If the remake performs well, it could open the door to more Star Fox projects.

That is where Velan Studios becomes interesting. If Nintendo is happy with this remake, the studio could become a trusted partner for future Star Fox work or other revival projects. Nintendo has used outside studios for major franchises before, and Star Fox has a history of collaborations with external developers.

The demo could help build confidence before launch

The new demo is important because Star Fox fans have been cautious about the series for years. Some entries were praised, while others divided players due to control choices or changes to the formula.

A hands on demo gives players a chance to judge the remake directly. For a game built around flight controls, responsiveness, and mission flow, trailers can only show so much. The feel of movement and aiming will matter more than presentation alone.

The 60 FPS target should help, but the bigger question is whether the remake captures what made Star Fox appealing in the first place. Fans will be looking for clean controls, satisfying shooting, strong stage design, memorable team chatter, and a good balance between nostalgia and modern improvements.

Nintendo may be testing demand for more Star Fox

Nintendo’s decision to bring back Star Fox now could be part of a wider strategy for Switch 2. The company is already leaning on familiar franchises while also expanding third party support. A polished Star Fox remake gives the console another recognizable exclusive without requiring Nintendo’s internal teams to build everything alone.

If Velan’s work is well received, Nintendo could use the remake as a foundation for a larger return. That might mean a sequel, more remakes, or a different kind of Star Fox project later in the Switch 2 generation.

For now, the important news is that Star Fox is closer than expected, and players do not have to wait until launch to try it. The demo is live, the game arrives on June 25, and Velan Studios is officially the team behind this revival.

The remake now has more attention than it did at reveal. Nintendo fans know who is making it, what engine powers it, and how soon they can play the full game. For a franchise that has spent years waiting for a clear comeback, that is already a meaningful step forward.