Nintendo Sues Accessories Firm Over Premature Switch 2 'Mockup' Reveal

Nintendo is taking legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki for trademark infringement following the latter's display of a "Nintendo Switch 2" mockup at CES 2025, months before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console. The controversy arose when Genki claimed it had seen and used a real Switch 2 system to develop its accessories, despite not having signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Nintendo.

In court documents obtained by IGN, Nintendo accuses Genki of launching a strategic campaign to exploit public interest in the upcoming console. The lawsuit alleges trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. Nintendo claims that Genki boasted about having early, unauthorized access to the Switch 2, allowing attendees at CES to interact with the mockups. Nintendo argues that Genki's claims of compatibility with the Switch 2 are misleading, as they would require illegal access to the console.

The court papers state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the yet-to-be-released Switch 2. Despite later retracting the claim of possessing a console, Genki continued to assert that its accessories would be compatible with the Switch 2 upon its release.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

View 3 ImagesNintendo further alleges that Genki infringed on its trademarks through its advertising and competed directly with Nintendo's and its licensees' authorized accessory marketing. A tweet from Genki on January 20, featuring CEO Edward Tsai with a finger to his lips and the caption "Genki ninjas infiltrate Nintendo Kyoto HQ," along with a website pop-up saying "Can you keep a secret? We can’t...," also drew Nintendo's ire.

Nintendo is seeking to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" trademark in its marketing, to destroy any products or marketing materials referencing Nintendo's branding, and to recover unspecified damages, which it wants to be tripled.

In response, Genki released a statement on social media over the weekend, acknowledging the lawsuit and expressing its commitment to working with legal counsel. The company emphasized its independence and dedication to creating innovative gaming accessories, reaffirming its confidence in the quality and originality of its products. Genki also mentioned its ongoing preparations for PAX East and thanked its community for their support, promising to share more information as soon as possible.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5, with pre-orders starting 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 information, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.