Paul Rudd reprised his early commercial role for Nintendo Switch 2 alongside other comedy greats

In an exciting nod to nostalgia, Nintendo has uploaded a 34-year-old Super Nintendo commercial featuring actor Paul Rudd to its YouTube channel, coinciding with the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on July 11, 2025. In this updated promotional video, Rudd dons the same attire from the original '90s ad, now showcasing the new GameChat social feature while playing Mario Kart World with fellow celebrities, including Joe Lo Truglio. The original Super Nintendo ad is celebrated for its quintessentially '90s vibe, drawing attention away from modern commercials, which many believe lack the same charm. The recent buildup to the Switch 2’s launch has been carefully orchestrated by Nintendo, who previously revealed the new console’s details in early April. Alongside the console, Mario Kart World will also be available on launch day, bringing exciting new courses and features, like Smart Steering, aimed at enhancing user experience. Pre-orders for the highly anticipated console will begin on April 24, with the initial sales launching on June 5. This strategy of leveraging nostalgia by bringing back beloved figures from the past seems to resonate well with both older and newer audiences. Nintendo has historically harnessed the power of nostalgia effectively, creating a bridge between generations of gamers. By doing so, they not only engage their loyal customer base but also introduce younger audiences to the legacy that the Super Nintendo has forged in gaming culture. The combination of a beloved actor like Rudd, reminiscing over the '90s with modern gaming innovations, paints a picture of continuity in an ever-evolving industry. As the launch date approaches, it will be interesting to see how this promotional technique plays out in sales figures and customer reception. The positivity surrounding the marketing strategy speaks to Nintendo's understanding of their audience and the emotional connections they have fostered over decades. The inclusion of progressive features like GameChat shows that while they honor their past, they are also keenly focused on innovating for the future.