Paul Rudd Revives 90s Nostalgia in Nintendo Switch 2 Ad

Paul Rudd Returns to Nintendo Ads After 34 Years

Actor Paul Rudd has once again become the face of Nintendo’s marketing campaign, this time for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. In a nostalgic nod to his 1991 Super Nintendo commercial, Rudd stars in a new ad that humorously recreates the original while showcasing the modern features of the latest console.

A Playful Homage to the Past

The original 1991 commercial featured a young Paul Rudd arriving at a drive-in theater with a Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in hand. Sporting a long black coat, a beaded necklace, and a signature 90s hairstyle, Rudd connected the console to the theater’s big screen and played classics like “The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past” and “F-Zero.” The ad concluded with the iconic slogan, “Now you’re playing with power.”

Fast forward to 2025, and the new Nintendo Switch 2 ad revisits this iconic moment. Rudd, now 34 years older but still exuding youthful charm, steps into a living room instead of a drive-in. Donning a similar outfit to his 90s self, he connects the Switch 2 and begins playing “Mario Kart World” with comedians Joe Lo Truglio and Jordan Carlos, as well as a young boy who affectionately calls him “Uncle Paul.”

Modern Features Meet Nostalgia

The commercial cleverly blends nostalgia with modern gaming innovations. The Switch 2’s GameChat feature takes center stage, allowing players to communicate in real-time during gameplay. The ad also pokes fun at its own cheesiness, complete with fog machines and a fan to recreate the dramatic atmosphere of the original commercial.

Rudd’s character embraces the humor, engaging in exaggerated antics that harken back to his 90s persona. “It’s cheesy, but it works!” Rudd commented during an interview with IGN. He revealed that he suspected he wore his own beaded necklace in the original ad and shared anecdotes about playing “Mario Kart World” between takes. Unfortunately, he joked, Nintendo didn’t let him take a Switch 2 home.

Nintendo Switch 2: Key Details

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, with preorders reopening on April 24, 2025. Priced at $450, the console promises to build on the success of its predecessor with enhanced features and a robust lineup of games. A special “Mario Kart World Bundle” will also be available for $499.99, offering fans an enticing package that includes the console and the game.

“Mario Kart World,” a launch title for the Switch 2, introduces new characters, courses, and gameplay mechanics. Highlights include the “Charge Jump” technique for dodging attacks and accessing hidden paths, as well as a “Rewind” feature that allows players to retry challenging sections. The game also offers expansive multiplayer options, supporting up to 24 players online and various local play configurations.

The Power of Nostalgia in Marketing

Nintendo’s decision to bring Paul Rudd back for this campaign underscores the company’s understanding of nostalgia’s appeal. By revisiting a beloved 90s commercial, Nintendo connects with older fans who remember the original ad while introducing younger audiences to its legacy.

The ad’s tagline, “Now we’re playing together,” reflects the evolution of gaming from solo experiences to shared, social activities. This shift aligns with the Switch 2’s emphasis on multiplayer features and community engagement.

Paul Rudd’s return to Nintendo ads is more than a clever marketing move; it’s a celebration of gaming’s ability to bring people together across generations. As the June 5 launch date approaches, the excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to grow. With its blend of nostalgia and innovation, the console is poised to capture the hearts of gamers old and new.