Nintendo Sues Over Premature Switch 2 Mockup Reveal

Nintendo has initiated legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki, alleging trademark infringement following Genki's display of a Nintendo Switch 2 "mockup" several months before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console. The controversy began at CES 2025 in January when Genki showcased the Switch 2 mockup, claiming it was based on a real Switch 2 system they had seen and used to design their accessories. Despite Genki's assertion that they had not signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Nintendo, and therefore had "nothing to worry about," Nintendo's lawyers reportedly visited Genki.

In court papers obtained by IGN, Nintendo accuses Genki of launching a "strategic campaign intended to capitalize on the public interest surrounding Nintendo's next-generation console." The lawsuit cites trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. Nintendo claims 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 their accessories with the Nintendo Switch 2.

The court documents state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, despite the console not being released or revealed publicly by Nintendo at that time. Genki's statements were later found to be inconsistent, as they claimed not to possess a console, yet continued to assure consumers of their accessories' compatibility with the Nintendo Switch 2 upon its release.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

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Nintendo also accuses Genki of infringing its trademarks in their marketing and competing directly with Nintendo's and its licensees' authorized accessories. Additionally, Nintendo expressed displeasure over a tweet from Genki's CEO Edward Tsai, which suggested unauthorized access to Nintendo's headquarters and a playful hint at secrecy.

Nintendo is seeking to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" name in their marketing, demanding the destruction of any products or marketing materials referencing Nintendo's branding, and requesting unspecified damages for infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising, which they wish to be tripled.

In response, Genki issued a statement over the weekend, acknowledging the lawsuit and expressing their commitment to working with legal counsel. They emphasized their independence and dedication to creating innovative gaming accessories, reaffirming their confidence in the quality and originality of their products. Genki also mentioned their ongoing preparations to fulfill orders and showcase new products at PAX East, thanking their community for support and promising further updates.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to debut on June 5, with pre-orders starting on April 24 at a fixed 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, refer to IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.