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Nintendo is taking legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki for trademark infringement following Genki's release of renders depicting a "mockup" of the Nintendo Switch 2 months before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console. The controversy emerged at CES 2025 in January, where Genki showcased the Switch 2 mockup, claiming it was based on a real system they had seen and used for their accessory designs.
In court documents accessed by IGN, Nintendo accuses Genki of launching a strategic campaign to exploit public interest in the next-generation console. The lawsuit claims Genki boasted about having early access to the unreleased console, allowing visitors to interact with the mockups. Nintendo argues that Genki's assertions of compatibility with the Switch 2 are misleading and impossible to guarantee without unauthorized access to the console.
The court papers further state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the Nintendo Switch 2, which had not yet been publicly revealed by Nintendo. Despite later contradicting their initial claims of possessing a genuine console, Genki continued to assure consumers that their accessories would be compatible with the Switch 2 upon its release.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
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Nintendo also alleges that Genki infringed on its trademarks through its advertising and directly competed with Nintendo and its authorized licensees. A tweet from Genki's CEO, Edward Tsai, and a pop-up on their website further fueled the controversy, hinting at unauthorized access to Nintendo's headquarters.
Nintendo is seeking to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" trademark in its marketing, demanding the destruction of any products or marketing materials referencing Nintendo's branding, and requesting unspecified damages for infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising, with the damages potentially being tripled.
In response, Genki issued a statement on social media, acknowledging the lawsuit and their commitment to working with legal counsel. They emphasized their independence and dedication to creating innovative gaming accessories, expressing gratitude for the support received and their focus on fulfilling orders and showcasing new products at PAX East.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to debut on June 5, with pre-orders starting on April 24 at a price of $449.99. High demand has led Nintendo to warn U.S. customers that release date delivery is not guaranteed. For more information, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.
