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

Author : Jonathan May 23,2025

Nintendo has enlisted the charm of actor Paul Rudd to generate excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 through a new commercial that affectionately nods to a quirky 90s ad he starred in for the Super Nintendo. The original 1991 commercial featured Rudd, donning a long black jacket, beaded necklace, and a distinctive hairstyle, confidently approaching a drive-in movie theater with a Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in tow. He connected the console to the big screen, captivating onlookers with games like *The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past*, *F-Zero*, and *Sim City*. The ad famously concluded with the slogan, "Now you're playing with power."

Paul Rudd, from the new Nintendo Switch 2 commercial

Fast forward to the present, and Rudd, appearing remarkably unchanged despite the passage of 34 years, reprises his iconic look in a living room setting for the Nintendo Switch 2 commercial. Joined by comedians Joe Lo Truglio and Jordan Carlos, along with a child who calls him "Uncle Paul," Rudd hooks up the new console to showcase *Mario Kart World* and the system's innovative GameChat feature. The ad playfully acknowledges the original's cheesiness, with the cast teasing Rudd about his 90s style, complete with a fog machine and fan to recreate the dramatic atmosphere. The commercial ends on a heartwarming note, with Rudd adapting the classic slogan to, "Now we're playing together," embracing the communal aspect of modern gaming.

IGN had the opportunity to interview Rudd about his experience filming this nostalgic sequel to his first Nintendo commercial. Rudd shared that he might have worn his personal beaded necklace in the original ad and admitted to playing *Mario Kart World* on set during breaks. Unfortunately, he wasn't allowed to take a Nintendo Switch 2 home. You can view our full interview with him here:

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Just this week, preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 resumed, set to begin on April 24, maintaining the console's price at $450, although accessory costs have increased due to tariffs in the United States. For those eager to secure one, our comprehensive guide details everything you need to know about where and how to place your preorder.