Nintendo has initiated legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki for alleged trademark infringement. This follows Genki's presentation of a "mockup" of the Nintendo Switch 2 at CES 2025, months before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console. The controversy intensified after Genki claimed to have based their mockup on an actual Switch 2 system, which they had allegedly seen and used to develop compatible accessories.
According to court documents reviewed by IGN, Nintendo accuses Genki of launching a "strategic campaign" to exploit public interest in the next-generation console. The lawsuit includes charges of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. Nintendo argues that Genki's claims of compatibility were misleading, as they could not have been guaranteed without unauthorized access to the unreleased console.
The legal documents state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the Nintendo Switch 2 before its public reveal. Despite later retracting their claim of possessing a real console, Genki continued to assure consumers of their accessories' compatibility with the upcoming console.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
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Nintendo further alleges that Genki infringed on its trademarks through advertising and competed directly with Nintendo and its licensed accessory makers. The company also criticized a tweet from Genki's CEO Edward Tsai and a pop-up on the Genki website, both suggesting unauthorized access to Nintendo's facilities.
Nintendo is seeking an injunction to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" trademark in marketing, the destruction of any infringing products or materials, and triple damages for the alleged infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.
In response, Genki issued a statement on social media acknowledging the lawsuit and their commitment to addressing it with legal counsel. They emphasized their independence and dedication to creating innovative gaming accessories, while also confirming their ongoing preparations for PAX East and fulfillment of orders. Genki expressed gratitude for the support they've received and promised to keep their focus on producing gear for gamers.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5, with pre-orders beginning on April 24 at a price of $449.99. Due to high demand, Nintendo has warned U.S. customers that release date delivery is not guaranteed for those who pre-ordered through the My Nintendo Store. For more details, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.
