Star Fox Zero Port for Nintendo Switch: Calls Grow from Developers and Fans

Industry momentum continues to build behind Star Fox Zero, the 2016 Wii U title developed by PlatinumGames in collaboration with Nintendo.

Despite the considerable number of Wii U games already ported to Nintendo Switch, Star Fox Zero has yet to join the library of best-selling Nintendo Switch ports, sparking ongoing appeals from both developers and longtime fans of the Star Fox series. Background and Recent Developments Released in April 2016, Star Fox Zero was designed under the supervision of iconic creator Shigeru Miyamoto and featured innovative controls utilizing the Wii U GamePad.

Although the title brought fresh gameplay mechanics to the franchise, its uniquely complex control scheme proved divisive among players, and it did not reach the widespread audience enjoyed by other Nintendo first-party releases.

As Switch continues to outsell its predecessor and bring classic titles to a broader market, many in the industry have questioned whether Star Fox Zero could benefit from a similar revival. Notably, PlatinumGames, the studio responsible for developing Star Fox Zero alongside Nintendo, publicly expressed interest in a Nintendo Switch port.

In September 2021, studio representatives stated their definite enthusiasm to revisit the title for the Switch platform if the opportunity arose. Adding further support, Takaya Imamura—an influential former Nintendo employee, supervisor on Star Fox Zero, and a key figure in character design for the Star Fox series—recently called for the game’s return on his personal social media channels.

Imamura marked the six-year anniversary of Star Fox Zero’s release by addressing Nintendo directly, noting the passage of time and advocating for a Switch port.

He acknowledged that despite certain challenges with the original game, particularly its control system, he believes the transition to Nintendo Switch is feasible.

Imamura also expressed his willingness to contribute to a follow-up animation project, highlighting his continued passion for the franchise. "Dear Nintendo, six years have now passed since Star Fox Zero was released.

While there are some issues, I believe now would be the perfect time to port it to Nintendo Switch.

I would also be happy to help with a sequel to Star Fox - The Battle Begins," Imamura conveyed, underlining both his support and readiness to be actively involved. Legacy and Potential The discussion over how to adapt Star Fox Zero’s controls for a modern system echoes Nintendo’s previous efforts with The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD, which introduced full button controls to accommodate the Switch’s hardware.

That successful remaster has served as proof that Nintendo can overcome past gameplay challenges. While Nintendo has yet to officially confirm plans for a Star Fox Zero Switch port or any revival of the related animation, the public endorsements from key developers add weight to fan hopes.

As the Switch generation continues to set hardware and software sales records, anticipation remains high for more legacy titles to find new life on the platform. For players eager to see Fox McCloud soar again, signals from within the development community indicate growing momentum—leaving the next move, fittingly, in Nintendo’s hands.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Wii Wii U Switch Star Fox Zero PlatinumGames Star Fox