Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against accessory company Genki for showing unauthorized mock-ups of the upcoming Switch 2 console at CES 2025. The lawsuit, filed Friday, accuses Genki of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.
Nintendo claims Genki deliberately tried to profit from public interest in their next-generation console. The lawsuit states Genki promoted accessories they claimed would be compatible with Switch 2 despite having no official access to the device, and inappropriately used the Switch logo in their marketing.
Conflicting Stories Emerge
This legal battle began after Genki brought what they claimed were Switch 2 mock-ups to CES in January and released a video supposedly showing a 3D render of the console. Nintendo quickly released a statement clarifying that neither the hardware nor images were official.
Nintendo points out in the lawsuit that Genki made contradictory statements about their access to the Switch 2. Initially, Genki reportedly claimed they had access to the console, but later posted on X that they “do not own or possess a black market console” and told Game*Spark their mock-ups were based solely on leaked information.
Despite these inconsistencies, Nintendo argues Genki continued telling consumers their accessories would be compatible with Switch 2 upon release. The lawsuit further alleges that even after Nintendo officially announced the Switch 2 on January 16, Genki has continued exploiting media attention and threatening sales of Nintendo’s own accessories, including scheduling a “Genki Direct” event immediately following Nintendo’s own Direct presentation.
Genki Responds
Genki acknowledged the lawsuit in a statement on X, saying they’re “taking it seriously and working with legal counsel to respond thoughtfully.”
They added: “What we can say is this: Genki has always been an independent company focused on building innovative gaming accessories for the community we love. We’re proud of the work we’ve done, and we stand by the quality and originality of our products. While we can’t comment in detail, we’re continuing preparations to fulfill orders and showcase our newest products at PAX East this week.”
Nintendo notes in the lawsuit that planning for their next-generation console began shortly after releasing the original Switch. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 opened last month in April, with the console scheduled for release on June 5.
