Hollywood actor Paul Rudd has reunited with Nintendo in a playful new advertisement for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console—marking 34 years since his first appearance in a Nintendo commercial. The ad, which has quickly charmed fans, is a direct callback to Rudd’s 1991 Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) commercial, one of his earliest acting gigs.
Speaking after the launch of the commercial, Rudd revealed how the collaboration came about. “Nintendo reached out to me,” he said. “I got a real kick out of this idea of revisiting the original commercial. I just thought it was really funny and fun.” The campaign, which recreates scenes from the early ’90s with a modern twist, captures the actor in similarly retro outfits and backdrops, further enhancing the nostalgia.
When asked whether the project made him long for the ’90s, Rudd laughed and replied, “I think it made me nostalgic in all of the right ways,” adding that the ad successfully balanced memories of the past with excitement for the future.
A Tribute to Arcade Roots and Retro Gaming
Beyond the commercial, Rudd shared heartfelt memories of his personal connection with video games. Growing up near an arcade, he recalled the thrill of being surrounded by flashing screens and beeping machines. “It was the greatest thing ever,” he said, citing Donkey Kong as his all-time favorite arcade game. “It was so different from anything else out there at the time,” he explained, highlighting the charm and innovation of early video games.
This sense of wonder and excitement continues to resonate with Rudd, who emphasized how the new Nintendo campaign is more than just a trip down memory lane. “It did have this feel of nostalgia, but kind of all leaning toward the future. It was kind of fun to see both of those things hit at the same time,” he said, reflecting the blend of retro and cutting-edge elements that define the Nintendo Switch 2.
Paul Rudd on Mario, Modern Gaming, and the Switch 2’s Features
During a friendly conversation featured alongside the commercial’s release, Paul Rudd shared more of his thoughts on modern gaming, particularly his admiration for Nintendo’s enduring franchises. He mentioned his fondness for Mario and revealed his favorite Mario Kart racer, though he didn’t name a specific character. The discussion also touched on how the Switch has fit into his lifestyle as an actor who’s frequently on the move.
Paul Rudd praised the portability of the Nintendo Switch and expressed excitement about the new Switch 2’s upgraded features, especially its GameChat function and built-in camera. “Being able to play while traveling is a game-changer,” he remarked.
Fans of both the actor and the gaming brand have welcomed the commercial with enthusiasm, celebrating the lighthearted tone and Rudd’s charm. By tapping into the collective nostalgia of longtime Nintendo fans while showcasing the future of gaming, the campaign has struck a winning balance—just like Rudd’s career itself.
