Nintendo of America has taken a deep dive into the nostalgia pool with its latest ad campaign for the Nintendo Switch 2, bringing back none other than Paul Rudd, the star of the original 1991 SNES commercial. This time, Rudd brings his timeless charm to promote the eagerly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, proving that some things only get better with age.
Paul Rudd: Timeless as Ever
In an impressive display of continuity and nostalgia, Nintendo's new campaign features Paul Rudd reprising his role from over three decades ago. The images released by Nintendo show Rudd almost unchanged, his youthful demeanor and classic style bridging the gap between 1991 and 2025. Dressed in similar fashion to his younger self, Rudd's appearance in the campaign highlights a deliberate echo of the past, resonating with both older gamers who remember the original ad and a new generation eager to see the evolution of gaming consoles.Echoes of 1991 with a Modern Twist
The campaign not only revisits the aesthetic of the early '90s but also revives the excitement and innovation that the original SNES ads brought to television screens. "Step back into 1991 and watch the official Super Nintendo Entertainment System launch commercial featuring Paul Rudd," teases Nintendo, drawing a direct line from the past to the present-day launch of the Switch 2.
Economic Factors at Play
Amidst the buzz of the nostalgic campaign, Nintendo has also been transparent about the economic realities affecting the new console's launch. Over the recent bank holiday, the company detailed how US tariffs would impact the pricing of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its accessories. While accessories like the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the Switch 2 Pro controller have seen a modest price increase, the console itself remains at a steady price, with a $450 base price and a $500 bundle option with Mario Kart World.Anticipating New Adventures
The nostalgia-infused campaign comes alongside exciting news for gamers: the possibility of new titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows joining the Nintendo Switch 2 lineup. This blend of old-school charm and new gaming possibilities creates a compelling narrative for the console's launch, setting the stage for what could be another landmark moment in gaming history.