Published on: January 13, 2020
Celebrated God of War art director Raf Grassetti recently captivated the gaming community with his latest project: meticulously detailed, realistic reimaginings of the iconic Star Fox crew.
Shared through his popular Instagram account, Grassetti’s work has quickly gained traction among both Nintendo and art fans, showcasing beloved Star Fox characters in a bold new light.
Star Fox, created by Nintendo and making its debut in 1993 on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, is one of the most storied franchises in Nintendo’s extensive library.
Known for its space-faring combat, memorable characters like Fox McCloud, Peppy Hare, Slippy Toad, Falco Lombardi, and the rival Wolf O'Donnell, the series has inspired multiple sequels and maintained a devoted fanbase, particularly on the Nintendo Switch platform via digital availability on the eShop and inclusion in Nintendo Direct presentations.
Grassetti, who has earned industry acclaim for his role in the 2018 PlayStation hit God of War, is no stranger to creating strikingly lifelike versions of gaming’s biggest icons.
With his Star Fox project, he has expanded his signature realistic style beyond Super Smash Bros.
characters to imbue the Star Fox team with a tangible sense of presence.
The finished series features Fox McCloud alongside his companions Slippy Toad, Falco Lombardi, Peppy Hare, and their adversary Wolf O’Donnell, each rendered with remarkable depth and detail.
Fans can view each character individually in his Instagram portfolio for a closer look at his approach to texture, anatomy, and personality.
In a statement shared on social media, Grassetti reflected on his deep connection to Nintendo’s space adventure series: "Star Fox was a key part of my early video game experiences, and I feel really grateful to have the chance to reinterpret these characters through my own artistic lens.
I hope this collection resonates with fans and conjures up some fond memories."
Grassetti’s homage has sparked discussion in the Nintendo community, with many expressing enthusiasm for the prospect of a future Star Fox title that embraces a more realistic art direction.
While Nintendo has not formally announced any new Star Fox games as of June 2024, the renewed interest around Grassetti’s work underscores the enduring legacy of the Star Fox franchise and its characters.
The series’ impact can be felt across generations, and official releases continue to find new audiences on contemporary platforms like Nintendo Switch, where a whole new generation of gamers can experience the adventures of Fox McCloud and his team.
To view Grassetti’s full collection of Star Fox artwork and see these legendary Nintendo icons reimagined with breathtaking realism, visit his official Instagram page.
Raf Grassetti Nintendo Star Fox God of War Super Smash Bros Nintendo Switch Instagram