Nintendo has initiated legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki, accusing the company of trademark infringement after it showcased renders of a purported "Nintendo Switch 2" mockup well before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console. This legal battle stems from events at CES 2025 in January, where Genki displayed the mockup, claiming it was based on an actual Switch 2 system they had access to for developing accessories.
According to court documents obtained by IGN, Nintendo alleges that Genki embarked on a "strategic campaign" to exploit public interest in the next-generation console. The lawsuit accuses Genki of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. Nintendo claims that Genki boasted about having early access to the unreleased console, allowing guests to interact with the mockups, and misleading the public about the compatibility of its products with the Nintendo Switch 2.
The court papers further state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console, which had not been publicly revealed or released by Nintendo at that time. Despite Genki's later contradictory statements about not possessing a console, the company continued to assert that its accessories would be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 upon its release.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
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Nintendo also criticized a tweet from Genki's CEO, Edward Tsai, which hinted at infiltrating Nintendo's headquarters, and a pop-up on Genki's website suggesting secrecy. In response, Nintendo is seeking to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" trademark in its marketing, demanding the destruction of any products or marketing materials that reference Nintendo's branding, and requesting unspecified damages for infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.
Over the weekend, Genki responded on social media, acknowledging the lawsuit and stating they are working with legal counsel. Genki emphasized their independence and commitment to innovative gaming accessories, expressing pride in their work and standing by their product quality and originality. While unable to comment in detail, they confirmed preparations to fulfill orders and showcase new products at PAX East.
Genki's statement concluded by thanking supporters and reaffirming their focus on creating gaming gear. The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to debut on June 5, with pre-orders beginning 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.
