Nintendo Switch 2 Commercial Repraises Classic SNES Ad with Paul Rudd

27 April 2025
Nintendo Switch 2
6 min.
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Nintendo Switch 2 Commercial Repraises Classic SNES Ad with Paul Rudd

Summary:

Nintendo is turning back the clock in the most delightful way with a brand new ad for the Switch 2, and it features none other than Paul Rudd—yes, that Paul Rudd—returning to his roots. This fresh commercial isn’t just a random celebrity cameo; it’s a loving homage to a 1991 classic that helped define an era of video game marketing. By blending old-school nostalgia with next-gen excitement, Nintendo manages to tap into decades of loyalty while building hype for its newest console. The commercial is a reimagined version of the legendary Super Nintendo Entertainment System ad where a much-younger Paul Rudd gamed his way into our hearts. Fast forward over three decades, and Rudd is back—this time with the Switch 2 in hand and a fresh take on the classic “Now You’re Playing With Power” line. For longtime fans, it’s a throwback dream come true. For new ones, it’s a masterclass in brand storytelling. This moment isn’t just about selling a console; it’s about reminding us why Nintendo still knows how to play the game. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dig into why this new spot is making waves and what it reveals about Nintendo’s future.

The return of Paul Rudd in a nostalgic Nintendo ad

Paul Rudd has officially come full circle. More than 30 years after starring in Nintendo’s 1991 commercial for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, he’s back—older, wiser, and still effortlessly cool. This time, he’s carrying the Switch 2, the next-generation console that promises to continue Nintendo’s legacy of innovation. The choice to bring back Rudd isn’t just a nod to fans who remember the original ad—it’s a brilliant way to bridge generations. The internet lit up as soon as the new spot dropped, with viewers marveling at the symmetry between the past and present. Rudd’s presence adds authenticity, a wink to longtime fans, and undeniable star power to a campaign that’s already bursting with nostalgia.

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A modern twist on a 1991 classic

The new Switch 2 commercial is more than just a scene-for-scene remake—it’s a thoughtful reinterpretation. While the original had Rudd playing solo under the night sky with a portable screen, the updated version blends that same visual energy with enhanced graphics, modern lighting, and of course, the sleek Switch 2 console. There’s a clear effort to match the tone and pacing of the 1991 version, but with subtle modernizations that make it feel current. The tagline gets an update too: a sharper version of the classic “Now You’re Playing With Power.” These little touches keep the retro vibe intact while ensuring today’s gamers feel included. The result is a beautifully balanced homage that doesn’t rely on nostalgia alone.

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The evolution of Nintendo’s console marketing

Looking back at Nintendo’s marketing through the years, it’s clear they’ve always had a knack for tapping into emotion. From the energetic SNES campaigns of the early ‘90s to the family-friendly Wii ads and the sleek Switch unveilings, each era brought a unique flavor. The Switch 2 ad takes it a step further by directly acknowledging that history. Rather than reinventing the wheel, Nintendo is showing us how far that wheel has traveled. It’s less about pushing hardware and more about reestablishing a connection. This commercial isn’t just about selling a product—it’s about reminding people of why they fell in love with gaming in the first place. That’s a message that hits home across all generations.

What makes this commercial so iconic

When a brand manages to recreate one of its most beloved ads and make it feel fresh, it’s something special. The original 1991 commercial was iconic for its tone, visuals, and futuristic appeal. Now, seeing those same visuals updated with modern flair—and the same actor—is nothing short of brilliant. The subtle callbacks, the lighting, the music choices, and even the wardrobe are designed to evoke emotion. There’s no over-the-top voiceover or dramatic buildup. It’s simple, effective, and deeply resonant. The message? Nintendo isn’t just a gaming company—it’s a memory maker. That’s the power this new ad taps into.

Paul Rudd’s long-standing connection to Nintendo

While Paul Rudd might be better known today for his roles in Ant-Man or Clueless, his first mainstream appearance in a Nintendo ad cemented a small, loyal fanbase of gamers. His youthful charm made him relatable then, and his enduring likability makes him the perfect fit now. He’s one of the few celebrities who can span generations without trying too hard. By bringing him back, Nintendo is doing more than casting a familiar face—they’re signaling a sense of continuity. In an industry where change is constant, Rudd’s return is a steadying presence. He reminds us of a time when gaming felt magical and new—and invites us to feel that way again.

Revisiting the “Now You’re Playing With Power” legacy

That tagline has become part of gaming culture. “Now You’re Playing With Power” was more than a slogan—it was a declaration. It told players that they were stepping into something bigger, faster, and more exciting. The Switch 2 ad doesn’t just recycle that line—it reimagines it. The new version has a more refined tone, a sleeker delivery that matches the console’s futuristic vibe. Yet, it still hits with the same confidence. It’s a powerful way to say: the magic never left—it just evolved. This clever use of legacy branding keeps Nintendo rooted in its identity while still looking ahead.

Comparing the SNES and Switch 2 eras

In 1991, the SNES was revolutionary. It brought 16-bit graphics, layered backgrounds, and stereo sound into homes across the world. Fast forward to today, and the Switch 2 is poised to build on that legacy with higher resolution, improved battery life, and more seamless connectivity. But the biggest change? The way we play. Then, gaming was mostly stationary. Now, it’s mobile, connected, and social. Despite all these differences, the feeling remains the same: when you pick up a Nintendo device, you expect fun. You expect quality. That’s what this ad captures perfectly. It links two very different eras with one shared spirit.

The strategy behind Nintendo’s nostalgia marketing

Nostalgia is a powerful tool—especially when it’s authentic. Nintendo knows its audience. They’re not just targeting teens or techies; they’re talking to people who grew up with them. This ad campaign leans into that by showing how their journey has evolved alongside ours. It’s clever, but it doesn’t feel forced. That’s because it’s built on real moments—ads we remember, faces we know, and slogans that made us feel like heroes. With this campaign, Nintendo isn’t just launching a console—they’re welcoming you back to a world you never really left.

Fan reactions and online buzz

Social media exploded the moment the ad went live. Fans immediately began sharing side-by-side comparisons of the old and new commercials, pointing out Easter eggs and getting teary-eyed over the callback to the original. Memes popped up, Rudd appreciation threads flourished, and gaming forums lit up with debates over the Switch 2’s features. But what stood out most was the emotional response. People weren’t just excited about the console—they were moved by the memory. In a world dominated by fleeting trends, this campaign struck a lasting chord.

What this ad says about the future of Nintendo

If this commercial is any indication, Nintendo’s future looks both bold and grounded. They’re not abandoning their roots—they’re building on them. The Switch 2 promises innovation, but its rollout is rooted in memory, emotion, and storytelling. By blending modern tech with timeless appeal, Nintendo is showing us that they know how to evolve without losing their soul. This isn’t just smart marketing—it’s a philosophy. One that keeps fans coming back, console after console, year after year.

Conclusion

Nintendo’s latest ad for the Switch 2 is more than a throwback—it’s a masterstroke in connection. By bringing back Paul Rudd and referencing a beloved SNES commercial, the brand isn’t just recycling nostalgia—it’s rewriting it. This blend of past and present, memory and momentum, showcases Nintendo’s unique ability to speak to gamers of all ages. And as the Switch 2 prepares to take its place in gaming history, this commercial ensures it does so with heart, humor, and a whole lot of power.

FAQs
  • Who stars in the new Nintendo Switch 2 ad?
    • Paul Rudd returns to reprise his role from the 1991 SNES commercial.
  • What is the Nintendo Switch 2 ad referencing?
    • The commercial is a reimagining of Nintendo’s iconic 1991 Super Nintendo commercial featuring Paul Rudd.
  • What does “Now You’re Playing With Power” mean?
    • It’s Nintendo’s classic tagline, now revamped for the Switch 2 to symbolize power and innovation.
  • Why did Nintendo bring back Paul Rudd?
    • Rudd’s return serves as a nostalgic callback for older fans and adds star power to the campaign.
  • Where can I watch the new Nintendo ad?
    • The new commercial is available on Nintendo’s official channels and various online platforms.
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