Paul Rudd returns in a far more prominent role in commercials-the world of video games-“to launch the now much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2.” He invokes fond memories of a commercial he starred in for Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) back in 1991 when he was a fresh-faced teenager, thus marrying nostalgia with modern technology in this ad.
Rudd’s Gaming Legacy Full Circle
Many years ago, before hisntroductions in Clueless, Ant-Man, and Friends would make him a household name, Paul Rudd had a lesser-known claim to fame: the Super Nintendo entertainment system commercial. In the original ad, Rudd under the stars at an outdoor drive-in theater marveled at the then-revolutionary 16-bit graphics while playing the console.
Flash forward 34 years to today, and Rudd is back on set for the commercial-but now older, wiser, and, most noticeably, just as much fun. The Nintendo Switch 2 teaser, which mixes elements from the old advert with spectacular new graphics, optimized gameplay features, and hybrid capabilities, has garnered significant credit online for its appreciation of blending retro fun with futuristic excitement.
Nintendo-The Nostalgia Factor
Nintendo has always been particularly good at exploiting nostalgia, and the addition of Paul Rudd is a shining example. This Switch 2 reveal will remind viewers how Nintendo consoles have always had a special place in their hearts while showcasing some new technology.
The ad opens with a shot-for-shot recreation of the 1991 commercial, with similar lighting and music. The scene then changes as now-in-his-50s-but-looking-very-young Rudd turns and says, “Let’s do this again, but better.” Following, there’s a montage of him showing highlights of the new system: docking seamlessly, better graphics, an updated controller design, and even a glimpse of what looks like some type of new Zelda game.
Fans’ Reactions to Paul Rudd’s Comeback
Social media saw a showering of fans’ praises of Rudd and the ad right from gamers to pop culture fans. Tweets like “He doesn’t age, and he still loves Nintendo!” and “Paul Rudd is the perfect face for this campaign” soon started trending. Some even put up side-by-side comparison videos of the 1991 and 2025 ads, amazed at how little Paul Rudd has changed over all those years.
The past-meets-present continuity draws from the notion of the ad-turned-cultural moment. For the generation who were glued to the original SNES advertisement, seeing Rudd back within this old context just feels like reuniting with an old friend.
The Impact on Nintendo Switch 2
The ad has given some insight into the Switch 2 while keeping details about it locked firmly away. Analysts have pointed out that it looks like Nintendo is doubling down on hybrid gameplay, which signals longer battery life, faster load times, and cloud-based upgrades. Paul Rudd, known for his charm and wit, hints that the company is eager to afford its console that family-friendly spirit and nostalgia while simultaneously pushing the limits in terms of technology.
If the point was to generate excitement without spilling the beans, then the campaign has done so wonderfully. Thanks to Paul Rudd, the teaser has gathered attention far beyond gaming circles-from casual players to long-time fans alike.
Conclusion
The return of his early gaming past was perfect for allowing Paul Rudd to help Nintendo put together a commercial that was heartwarming yet ever so exciting. It is a signature opportunity for both Paul and Nintendo to show how far they have come since the early ’90s and how much they still offer.
There is no denying that the Nintendo Switch 2 launch is going to be part of gaming history; with the presence of Paul Rudd, it will truly become unforgettable.
