Nintendo has enlisted actor Paul Rudd to generate excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 in a new commercial that charmingly nods to a beloved 90s Super Nintendo ad featuring the actor. The original 1991 commercial showcased a youthful Rudd, sporting a long black jacket, beaded necklace, and an iconic hairstyle, as he confidently approached a drive-in movie theater with his Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). He connected the console to a projector, captivating the crowd with classics like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, F-Zero, and Sim City, ending with the memorable SNES slogan: "Now you're playing with power."

In the modern rendition for the Nintendo Switch 2, despite the 34-year gap, Paul Rudd's appearance remains strikingly similar, complete with the same jacket, necklace, and hairstyle. This time, he strides into a living room and sets up the new console to play Mario Kart World with comedians Joe Lo Truglio and Jordan Carlos, alongside a child who affectionately refers to him as "Uncle Paul." They utilize the system's innovative GameChat feature, with Rudd's companions playfully ribbing him about his 90s-inspired attire and dramatic entrance, complete with a fog machine and a fan to mimic the intense atmosphere of the original commercial. The ad concludes with Rudd humorously updating the classic slogan to, "Now we're playing together," embracing the cheesiness and nostalgia of the original in a delightfully self-aware manner.

IGN had the opportunity to interview Paul Rudd about his experience filming this nostalgic Nintendo hardware commercial more than three decades after his initial appearance. Rudd shared that he believes he wore his own beaded necklace in the original ad and that he enjoyed playing Mario Kart World on set during breaks. However, he humorously noted that he wasn't allowed to take a Nintendo Switch 2 home. You can view our complete interview with Rudd here:

Just this week, preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 resumed, set for April 24, with the console still priced at $450. However, due to increased tariffs in the United States, accessory prices have risen. For comprehensive details on securing your preorder, check out our dedicated guide.