Nintendo’s StarFox Assault, marking its 20th anniversary, is a pivotal yet often overlooked entry in the StarFox series. Developed by Namco for the GameCube, it attempted to evolve the franchise with both on-foot and traditional shooting gameplay. While it showcased technical prowess and appealed to fans, its mixed reception was influenced by its predecessor, StarFox Adventures. Despite its merits, including engaging combat sequences, it has not been re-released on modern platforms, leaving fans longing for more.
Reviving the Legacy of StarFox Assault
Nintendo has created some unforgettable franchises, yet certain licenses seem to fade into obscurity over time. Recently, Samus Aran made a triumphant return in Metroid Dread, but other beloved characters are still missing in action. Among these are the thrilling high-speed racing series F-Zero and the heroic StarFox team, dedicated to the protection of Corneria. In this article, we revisit the game that signified a turning point for the StarFox series: StarFox Assault, a title that has often been overlooked.
StarFox Assault: A 20-Year Reflection
This year marks the 20th anniversary of StarFox Assault, a game developed by Namco for Nintendo that heralded a shift in the quality of the franchise. This GameCube installment, which was handed over to a third-party developer, showcased Fox McCloud and his team in a new light, yet it was followed by a downturn in the series’ success. Many remember the ambitious yet flawed StarFox Zero, which, despite its innovative asymmetric gameplay, failed to deliver a satisfying experience. The last notable entry in the series, StarFox Guard, offered a brief glimpse of Slippy but has since left fans yearning for more.
At first glance, StarFox Assault appears to maintain the traditional elements fans love, featuring well-crafted shooting sequences. However, the game suffers from a troubled development process, which is evident in the lackluster on-foot sections and a shorter gameplay duration. While it still offers a decent experience, it pales in comparison to the classic Lylat Wars on Nintendo 64.
StarFox Assault’s release followed closely behind StarFox Adventures, which played a role in its mixed reception. Launched three years earlier, Rareware’s title attracted a dedicated following despite its departure from the typical gameplay fans expected from Fox McCloud’s adventures. Rareware creatively adapted the Dinosaur Planet project into a Zelda-like experience, cleverly attaching the StarFox name to broaden its appeal.
Despite some camera issues that affected combat and a few imprecise moments, StarFox Assault stands out as a technically impressive title for the Nintendo GameCube. The game delivers a refreshing experience by allowing players to control Fox on solid ground, accompanied by shooting sequences reminiscent of classic StarFox gameplay that pleased longtime fans. While it remains one of the finest offerings on the GameCube, it has sadly not been re-released on any other platform since its debut.
As we celebrate anniversaries this week, we also recognize the tenth anniversary of a beloved Zelda remaster that breathed new life into one of the franchise’s darkest chapters, released on the 3DS.