Star Fox 2 introduces two new wingwomen and allows the player to choose two pilots at the onset of the game. Fox is not a mandatory pick, meaning Slippy Toad and Peppy Hare can save the galaxy on their own for once, or newcomers Fay and Miyu can take on the forces of Andross.
Each pair of pilots has their own speed, charge shot, and shield rating, as well as a unique item, though this can be replaced by picking up a different item during missions.
Fox McCloud
Falco Lombardi
Fox and Falco have balanced Arwings. Their special item is the Nova Bomb from the first game, which is particularly useful for one-shotting the core reactor in most enemy bases.
Slippy Toad
Peppy Hare
Slippy and Peppy have high shields but the longest charge shot duration, making them less ideal for dogfights with multiple enemies. Their Heart special item repairs their Arwing.
Miyu
Fay
Named after programmer Dylan Cuthbert’s childhood crush, Fay is a white dog with a pink hair bow, while Miyu is a female lynx. Fay and Miyu have the weakest shields but the fastest Arwings and fire off charged shots faster than any other pilots. Their special item is a temporary shield that automatically reflects incoming enemy fire.
Unlike the vast majority of other characters and mechanics from Star Fox 2, Miyu and Fay are never seen or mentioned again throughout the franchise.