Nintendo Takes Legal Action Against Accessory Maker for Premature Switch 2 Reveal

Nintendo has recently filed a lawsuit against Genki, an accessory maker, over claims of trademark infringement related to the unannounced Nintendo Switch 2. This move comes as Genki showcased 3D-printed models of the console, sparking concern from Nintendo about unauthorized use of its trademarks.

The legal action takes place in California. Nintendo accuses Genki, along with its parent company Human Things, of unfair competition and false advertising. If Nintendo wins, Genki may be forced to destroy all related products and stop using its branding altogether.

The dispute began in December 2024 when Genki tweeted about working on accessories for the Nintendo Switch 2 in response to GameStop’s CEO. This was just the first spark in a series of incidents that led Nintendo to build its case. For instance, in January 2025, Genki showcased its own mockups at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), claiming to have inside information on the new console.

Reports suggest that Genki’s CEO, Edward Tsai, made bold claims about having access to authentic Switch 2 designs, which Nintendo views as a breach of trust. During CES, professionals from Genki participated in media interviews discussing their accessories, allegedly revealing some confidential details about Nintendo’s upcoming game console.

According to Nintendo, these actions aimed to confuse fans about Genki’s relationship with the company, creating false impressions of insider knowledge and connection.

In one notable incident, a tweet from Genki’s team even joked about “infiltrating” Nintendo’s headquarters, which Nintendo argues further muddied the waters regarding their partnership. Additionally, the day before Nintendo’s official presentation, Genki conducted its own marketing outreach, mimicking Nintendo’s own promotional strategies.

As the dispute unfolds, the gaming community reacts with substantial interest. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance between marketing hype and corporate trademark rights in the fast-paced world of video games. In recent years, around 70% of gamers have expressed concerns over the authenticity of third-party accessories, underscoring the significance of trademark integrity.

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing tension in the gaming industry between innovation and the need to protect intellectual property, making it an important case to watch as more details emerge.

For more on this topic, you can read Nintendo’s official statements and updates on their website.



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