Instead of a spacefaring merc group, they're just a regular paramilitary group who are assisting the country of Corneria with a ground war against the country of Sauria.

James Sirges "Fox" McCloud is fresh out of the academy and chose to join his late father's outfit rather than serve the Cornerian military directly. He's emotionally detached and efficient.

Falcone Lombardi is a hotshot soldier and ace pilot discharged by the military and recruited by Peppy for his raw talent.

Sullivan "Slippy" Toad is a gadgeteer genius who can keep the mercs well armed.