[preserve_formatting]
Nintendo has once again partnered with actor Paul Rudd to promote the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, delivering a charming and intentionally corny throwback to a classic Super Nintendo advertisement from 1991.
In the original SNES commercial—aired back in 1991—Rudd made a memorable appearance donning a long black jacket, a beaded necklace, and a rather unique hairstyle. He strides up to a drive-in movie theater, SNES in hand, hooks it up, and starts playing iconic titles like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, F-Zero, and SimCity. As onlookers gather in awe, the ad ends with the legendary tagline: "Now you're playing with power."
Fast forward to today, and Rudd reprises his role—older by 34 years but somehow still rocking the same vibe. In the new Nintendo Switch 2 commercial, he's back with the same coat, necklace, and unmistakable hairdo. This time around, he steps into a modern living room and connects the Nintendo Switch 2 for a multiplayer session with comedians Joe Lo Truglio and Jordan Carlos, along with a young co-star who affectionately calls him "Uncle Paul."
The group plays Mario Kart World using the system’s innovative GameChat feature, while playfully teasing Rudd about his retro look and over-the-top 90s commercial energy. The spot even nods to the original ad’s dramatic flair with a fog machine and wind effects that mimic the intensity of the past era. The updated slogan? "Now we're playing together."
It’s undeniably cheesy—but that’s exactly the point. The ad embraces the humor and nostalgia of its predecessor, making for a surprisingly endearing marketing moment.
IGN had the opportunity to sit down with Paul Rudd to discuss what it was like returning to shoot another Nintendo commercial over three decades later. During the interview, Rudd shared some fun behind-the-scenes tidbits—including his belief that he wore his own necklace in the original SNES spot—and revealed how he kept himself entertained between takes by playing Mario Kart World on set. Unfortunately, he joked, they didn’t let him take a Nintendo Switch 2 home after filming.
As for availability, Nintendo Switch 2 preorders are now live again, with shipments expected to begin April 24. The console remains priced at $450, though accessory costs have seen an uptick due to recent U.S. tariffs. For all the details on where and how to secure your preorder, check out our full Nintendo Switch 2 preorder guide.
[/preserve_formatting]
