Nintendo Sues Over Premature Switch 2 'Mockup' Reveal

Nintendo has taken legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki, filing a lawsuit for trademark infringement after Genki displayed renders of a "Nintendo Switch 2" mockup at CES 2025, months before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console. Genki had claimed to have based their mockup on an actual Switch 2 system they had allegedly seen, using it to design their accessories.

According to court documents obtained by IGN, Nintendo accuses Genki of launching a "strategic campaign" to exploit public interest in the upcoming console. The lawsuit claims Genki boasted about having early access to the unreleased console, allowing attendees to interact with the mockups. Nintendo argues that Genki's claims of compatibility with the Switch 2 were misleading, as such guarantees would be impossible without unauthorized access to the console.

The legal documents state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the Nintendo Switch 2, despite the console not being publicly revealed at the time. Genki's statements later contradicted their initial claims of possessing a genuine console, yet they continued to assure consumers that their 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 in its marketing and directly competed with Nintendo and its authorized accessory licensees. A tweet from Genki's CEO Edward Tsai and a pop-up on the Genki website, hinting at unauthorized access to Nintendo's headquarters, were also points of contention.

Nintendo is seeking an injunction to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" trademark in its marketing, the destruction of any products or marketing materials referencing Nintendo's branding, and unspecified damages, which they request be tripled.

In response, Genki issued a statement on social media acknowledging the lawsuit and their commitment to addressing it with legal counsel. They emphasized their independence and dedication to creating innovative gaming accessories, reaffirming their commitment to quality and originality. Genki also mentioned their ongoing preparations for PAX East and thanked their supporters, promising more updates in the future.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5, with pre-orders starting on April 24 at a price of $449.99. High demand has led Nintendo to warn U.S. customers that release date delivery is not guaranteed. For more information, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.