Star Fox Revival on Switch 2 Gets Emotional Nod From Original Designer at BitSummit

Nintendo’s long-dormant Star Fox series is officially back in the spotlight, and one of its original creators has already shared his thoughts. During a live appearance at BitSummit 2026, former Nintendo character designer Takaya Imamura took a moment to acknowledge the franchise’s revival on the Nintendo Switch 2, offering a brief but meaningful message that quickly resonated with fans.

Imamura, who played a key role in shaping the look and identity of Star Fox, expressed his gratitude toward Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator behind many of Nintendo’s biggest franchises. His comments, though short, highlighted the emotional significance of seeing the series return after years of relative inactivity.

A Simple Message That Meant a Lot to Fans

While performing on stage with his band at BitSummit, Imamura paused to address the audience and reflect on the revival of Star Fox. “Everyone, Star Fox was great, right? Thank you Miyamoto-san. That’s all,” he said, according to reports from the event.

The statement may have been brief, but it carried weight. Imamura’s involvement in the original games helped define the franchise’s visual style, including iconic characters like Fox McCloud and the rest of the Star Fox team. His acknowledgment of Miyamoto serves as both a personal tribute and a reminder of the collaborative effort that brought the series to life.

For longtime fans, the moment reinforced the legacy behind the franchise and added emotional context to its return on modern hardware.

Star Fox Zero gameplay showcases the franchise’s signature aerial combat mechanics that fans hope return on Nintendo Switch 2 (Image via Nintendo)

Why the Star Fox Comeback Matters

The return of Star Fox on Switch 2 is significant for several reasons. The franchise has not seen a major new entry in years, with its last notable release, Star Fox Zero, receiving mixed reactions. Since then, the series has largely remained absent from Nintendo’s core lineup.

This revival suggests that Nintendo is ready to revisit one of its classic properties at a time when nostalgia-driven projects are gaining traction. With the Switch 2 expected to support more advanced hardware capabilities, there is potential for the series to evolve while staying true to its roots.

The timing also aligns with Nintendo’s broader strategy of strengthening its portfolio of iconic franchises. Reviving Star Fox alongside newer titles could help the company balance innovation with familiarity.

Imamura’s Legacy in the Franchise

Imamura’s connection to Star Fox goes back to the early days of the series. As a character designer, he was responsible for creating the anthropomorphic animal cast that became a defining feature of the franchise. His work helped set Star Fox apart from other space shooters, giving it a unique identity that resonated with players.

Although Imamura left Nintendo in recent years, his influence remains central to how fans perceive the series. His public acknowledgment of the revival adds a layer of authenticity and continuity, even as the franchise moves forward under new creative leadership.

What We Know About the New Star Fox Project

Details about the new Star Fox game for Switch 2 remain limited, which is typical of Nintendo’s approach to major releases. The company often reveals information gradually, building anticipation over time rather than providing extensive details upfront.

What is clear is that the revival has already captured attention. Fans are eager to see how Nintendo will update the gameplay, which traditionally focused on fast-paced aerial combat and on-rails shooting mechanics. There is also curiosity about whether the new entry will expand into open environments or introduce new gameplay systems.

The lack of information has led to speculation, but it also reflects Nintendo’s confidence in the franchise’s appeal. By holding back details, the company is allowing excitement to build organically.