30 Sep 2025

The Star Fox franchise is among the most iconic franchises for Nintendo, but it's not been without its highs and lows. From its revolutionary Super Nintendo beginnings through to the later games, Star Fox titles ranked from best to worst reveal a consistent evolution in gameplay, story, and tech. Though there is significant nostalgia that comes with these titles, some of them have not aged as well as others. So let's break down the Star Fox series and figure out which ones pass the test of time and which ones don't.

7. Star Fox Zero (Wii U)

Star Fox Zero had high hopes, employing the Wii U Gamepad for aiming controls. Sadly, its gyroscopic aim system annoyed many players. The television gameplay was hard to follow, and the constant need to switch focus between television and Gamepad made the experience confusing. Even though the game was promising, the clunky controls were a letdown, and the game overall was disappointing to the series. It would be better with a tighter control Switch version, but as of now, it stands as one of the series' weaker installments.

6. Star Fox Command (Nintendo DS)

The control system of Star Fox Command was also divisive, using the DS's touchscreen to move, which felt clumsy to most players. Despite the new approach being packaged along with the old Star Fox formula, it did not quite measure up to the excitement of its predecessors. While I am a huge fan of Nintendo experimenting with something new, this one never really caught on with me, especially with how much it depended on the stylus usage.

5. Star Fox Adventures (GameCube)

The game broke away from the on-rails shooting style that the series was famous for. Instead, Star Fox Adventures took a turn toward exploration and puzzle-solving, more like a Zelda-like experience. While world-building was great and puzzles fun, the transition to an action-adventure format dismayed some of the followers. The endgame twist, where you're actually faced with a whole different villain from the one you've been tracking throughout most of the game, is a cop-out. However, it's still a game that's worth playing if you're a fan of the series.

4. Star Fox (Super NES)

The first Star Fox was an innovation game, showcasing the abilities of the Super FX chip and taking advantage of what home consoles could do at the time. Even though it sounds antiquated today, back in the day, its cutting-edge style made it a jewel of a title in 1993. Its on-rail shooter system was solid, and it set the stage for everything that came after. It's a great classic, but it does not have the enthusiasm and richness that would be found in subsequent titles in the franchise.

3. Star Fox 2 (Super NES Classic)

Released on the Super NES Classic after being on ice for over 20 years, Star Fox 2 was actually too early. It brought in real-time strategy elements to the mix, fending off invaders from Corneria, and new twists like Star Wolf as the bad guy. The game takes the formula of the first one and expands on it, giving more freedom in gameplay, a welcome relief. Its premature cancellation results in the fact that the majority of fans were denied, but it's a fabulous addition for those who never had the chance to experience it at its peak.

2. Star Fox: Assault (GameCube)

While it wasn't well-received initially, Star Fox: Assault is one of my personal favorites. Blending original Star Fox shooting and ground combat with the Landmaster tank, the game brings new diversity to the gameplay. The game is unexpectedly deep, with the Aparoids infecting the Lylat System, and has some touching moments, such as Pigma of Star Wolf's death. The diverse gameplay and call-outs to past games make it a hidden gem for fans who were maybe too blind to notice.

1. Star Fox 64 (Nintendo 64)

Star Fox 64 is the best in the series hands down. It refined all that made Star Fox great and added branching paths for replayability. The new ride vehicles like the Landmaster and Blue Marine introduced new gameplay factors while maintaining the on-rails action. It remains a joy to play due to its level design and responsive controls. It's a game that maintains the magic of Star Fox and remains the best in the series. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Star Fox 64 is the game to beat.

FAQ: Common Questions About Star Fox Games

1. What is the best Star Fox game?

In my opinion, Star Fox 64 remains the best of the bunch. It combines tight controls, branching paths, and a compelling story that set the bar for the series. It’s widely regarded as the definitive Star Fox game.

2. Why was Star Fox Zero so heavily panned?

Star Fox Zero was panned primarily for its clumsy controls. The gyroscopic aiming system, while innovative and novel, made it difficult to enjoy the action on the screen. Players felt they had to be constantly switching their gaze between the Gamepad and the TV, and it broke the immersion.

3. Is Star Fox Command worth playing?

While Star Fox Command introduces some interesting strategy elements, its reliance on the touchscreen for movement isn’t ideal for everyone. It’s a unique experiment, but if you’re looking for the classic Star Fox experience, there are better options.

4. What makes Star Fox 64 stand out?

Star Fox 64 contained very tight controls, excellent level design, and branching paths. The inclusion of ride vehicles like the Landmaster and Blue Marine added variety to the game and made it feel new and innovative every time you played it. It was also where the series dipped into the 3D arena, but still maintained that on-rails shooter element that was well-loved by fans.

5. What ever happened to Star Fox 2?

Originally delayed before its release, Star Fox 2 was a bigger game that boasted an open-world design and introduced real-time strategy features. It was released on the Super NES Classic after being shelved for over 20 years. It's a hidden gem and a representation of what could have been if the game were released in the '90s.

Conclusion

The Star Fox series has had its ups and downs, but it’s clear that the franchise has left a lasting legacy in the gaming world. Whether you’re drawn to the on-rails action, the story-driven gameplay, or the innovative features introduced in later entries, there’s something for everyone in this iconic series. While waiting for the next Star Fox game, revisit these classics and see how they stack up. Star Fox games ranked might surprise you!