Paul Rudd Nostalgically Promotes Nintendo Switch 2, Echoing 90s SNES Ad

Nintendo has enlisted the charm of actor Paul Rudd to promote the Nintendo Switch 2 in a new commercial that delightfully echoes a memorable 90s ad he starred in for the Super Nintendo. The original 1991 commercial featured Rudd, donning a distinctive long black jacket, beaded necklace, and an unconventional hairstyle, as he confidently marched into a drive-in movie theater. With his Super Nintendo in tow, he connected it to a large screen and began playing classics like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, F-Zero, and Sim City, drawing a curious crowd. The ad famously concluded with the iconic SNES tagline: "Now you're playing with power."

Fast forward to the present, and Rudd, remarkably looking quite similar despite the 34-year gap, reprises his role in the Nintendo Switch 2 commercial. This time, he bursts into a living room, still sporting the iconic coat, necklace, and hairstyle. He sets up the Nintendo Switch 2 and joins comedians Joe Lo Truglio and Jordan Carlos, along with a child who affectionately calls him "Uncle Paul," to play Mario Kart World. The new GameChat feature of the system is showcased as they banter about Rudd's nostalgic attire and the exaggerated 90s ad style, complete with a fog machine and a fan for dramatic effect. The commercial humorously shifts the focus from playing with power to "Now we're playing together," embracing the cheesiness and nostalgia in a heartwarming way.

IGN had the opportunity to sit down with Rudd to discuss his experience filming this nostalgic sequel. During the interview, Rudd shared that he believes he wore his own beaded necklace in the original commercial and that he enjoyed playing Mario Kart World on set during breaks. Although he didn't get to keep a Nintendo Switch 2 for himself, Rudd's enthusiasm for the project was evident. You can watch the full interview here:

Just this week, preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 have reopened for April 24, maintaining a price of $450. However, due to recent tariffs in the United States, accessory prices have increased. For detailed information on securing a preorder, check out our comprehensive guide.