Nintendo has taken legal action against gaming accessory manufacturer Genki following the company's premature showcase of Nintendo Switch 2 mockups and marketing of compatible accessories before the console's official announcement. The lawsuit highlights Nintendo's aggressive stance on protecting its intellectual property and controlling the narrative around its upcoming hardware release.
The Lawsuit Details
Nintendo filed a lawsuit against Genki on May 2nd in the Central District of California, alleging five counts of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. The gaming giant claims Genki violated the Trademark Act of 1946 through its actions. According to the legal filing, Nintendo argues that Genki's use of Nintendo trademarks could confuse consumers who might impute any shortcomings, defects, or lack of quality in Genki's products to Nintendo itself.
Key Points in Nintendo's Lawsuit Against Genki:
- Filed on May 2nd, 2025 in Central District of California
- Alleges five counts of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising
- Claims violation of the Trademark Act of 1946
- Questions how Genki could guarantee compatibility without unauthorized access
- Requests court order to stop Genki from selling products with Nintendo trademarks
- Seeks compensation for damages
Controversial Mockups and Early Accessories
The controversy began earlier this year when Genki displayed a 3D-printed mockup at CES 2025, claiming it was based on the Nintendo Switch 2's official dimensions. This demonstration occurred days before Nintendo's first official reveal of the console. Following this, Genki began offering pre-orders for Switch 2 accessories, asserting they would be compatible with the system at launch. Nintendo's legal team points out that Genki has been inconsistent about whether their designs are truly based on unofficial access to the actual console.
Nintendo's Legal Arguments
In its complaint, Nintendo argues that Genki is taking advantage of the trust and loyalty that Nintendo fans have for the Nintendo brand and mark and causing actionable harm. The lawsuit specifically questions how Genki could guarantee compatibility without unauthorized access to the Switch 2. Nintendo presents two possibilities: either Genki is misleading the public about guaranteed compatibility, or the company illegally and/or illicitly gained access to a pre-release model of the console.
Genki's Response
Genki has acknowledged the lawsuit in a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter). The company stated they are taking it seriously and working with legal counsel to respond thoughtfully. Despite the legal challenge, Genki affirmed they are continuing preparations to fulfill orders and showcase our newest products at PAX East. The accessory maker emphasized its identity as an independent company focused on building innovative gaming accessories for the community we love and expressed gratitude for the support they've received.
Industry Context
This lawsuit isn't occurring in isolation. Other companies have also announced accessories for the Switch 2 before Nintendo's official reveal, including Dbrand, which announced a Switch 2 case in December, and smaller manufacturers who unveiled products like screen protectors. While such early accessory announcements are common in the smartphone industry, where manufacturers often make calculated risks based on leaked specifications, Nintendo appears to view Genki's actions as crossing a line they won't tolerate.
What's Next
Nintendo is asking the court to require Genki to stop selling products marketed with Nintendo's trademarks and seeking compensation for alleged damages. Meanwhile, Genki has stated they will share more information when possible but are currently focused on building gear for gamers. The Nintendo Switch 2 is reportedly set to launch in approximately one month, adding urgency to the legal proceedings as both companies prepare for the console's release.