Star Fox Series: Dylan Cuthbert Discusses the Unique Formula Behind the Original Games

Star Fox Series: Dylan Cuthbert Discusses the Unique Formula Behind the Original Games The Star Fox franchise has long stood as a pillar of Nintendo’s innovation, spanning hardware generations from the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) to the most recent Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Switch Online (NSO).

Developed originally by Nintendo in collaboration with Argonaut Software, the series became synonymous with fast-paced 3D space shooting and memorable characters, led by Fox McCloud. Dylan Cuthbert, a foundational programmer on both Star Fox and Star Fox 2 and now the founder of Q-Games, recently shared his insights in an interview with Video Games Chronicle (VGC).

Cuthbert, having spent considerable time working in both the UK and Japan, offered a candid reflection on why later Star Fox games—and particularly entries like GameCube’s Star Fox Adventures—haven't achieved the same resonance as the much-beloved SNES and N64 releases. Cuthbert explained that the essence of the original Star Fox stemmed from a unique blend of British-developed Amiga 3D games, like Star Glider and Carrier Command, together with influences from arcade experiences such as the Star Wars Arcade game and Namco’s Starblade.

Coupled with Nintendo's expert character design and family-friendly branding, this combination created a distinctly original experience.

"The original Star Fox was really born out of that UK Amiga-style 3D, mixed with the cinematic touch of arcade shooters and Nintendo’s signature character work," Cuthbert noted.

"It’s the interplay between these elements that made the first game feel so special." Highlighting Star Fox Adventures as an example, Cuthbert commented that the GameCube entry may have leaned too heavily on its British development roots, missing the precise ingredient blend he believes gave the original its identity.

He called the effort from UK-based developer Rare a "good attempt," but felt it didn't fully capture the old-school 3D shooting game energy that defined the first two titles. Cuthbert also touched on Namco’s contribution with Star Fox: Assault, suggesting that it too lacked the "UK old-school 3D shooting game element." While praising various aspects of the sequels, he maintained that none achieved the complex integration of influences that set the SNES original apart.

"Star Fox is a very complex title," Cuthbert asserted.

"You need all those key components working together to achieve the atmosphere and gameplay that truly makes it shine." The original Star Fox recently celebrated its 30th anniversary on Nintendo Switch Online, offering both longtime fans and new players an opportunity to reflect on the franchise’s storied legacy.

Cuthbert’s perspectives offer rare insight into the creative DNA behind one of Nintendo’s most distinctive series, and his hopes remain high for future Star Fox games that recapture that original magic.

For the full interview with Dylan Cuthbert—including his comments on legacy systems like the DSiWare store—read the complete article on VGC.

Nintendo SNES Xbox Series X|S Star Fox Dylan Cuthbert Q-Games N64 Q