Paul Rudd Hypes Nintendo Switch 2 With Playful Throwback to Infamous 90s SNES Commercial

Nintendo has enlisted actor Paul Rudd to bring excitement to the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 with a new commercial that affectionately nods to his iconic 1991 Super Nintendo advertisement. In the original, a youthful Rudd, sporting a long black jacket, beaded necklace, and a distinctive hairdo, strides into a drive-in movie theater. He connects his SNES to the big screen, captivating onlookers as he plays classics like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, F-Zero, and Sim City. The commercial famously ends with the slogan, "Now you're playing with power."

Paul Rudd, from the new Nintendo Switch 2 commercial

Fast forward 34 years, and Rudd, remarkably unchanged in appearance, reprises his role in the new Nintendo Switch 2 commercial. This time, he enters a living room, still donning the same iconic coat, necklace, and hairstyle. Joined by comedians Joe Lo Truglio and Jordan Carlos, along with a child who affectionately calls him "Uncle Paul," they dive into a game of Mario Kart World, showcasing the system's new GameChat feature. The group playfully ribs Rudd about his nostalgic attire and the over-the-top atmosphere created by a fog machine and a fan, a nod to the dramatic flair of the original ad. The commercial wraps up with Rudd humorously updating the classic slogan to, "Now we're playing together," embracing the cheesiness and charm of the tribute.

IGN had the opportunity to sit down with Rudd to discuss his experience filming this nostalgic follow-up. Rudd shared amusing anecdotes, such as suspecting he wore his own beaded necklace in the original commercial and spending downtime on set playing Mario Kart World. Sadly, he wasn't allowed to take a Nintendo Switch 2 home. You can watch the full interview here:

This week, preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 resumed, set for April 24, with the console still priced at $450. However, accessory prices have increased due to U.S. tariffs. For all the details on securing your preorder, check out our comprehensive guide.