Nintendo Sues Over Premature Switch 2 'Mockup' Reveal

Nintendo has initiated legal action against accessory manufacturer Genki, alleging trademark infringement following Genki's release of renders of a "mockup" of the Nintendo Switch 2 several months before Nintendo officially unveiled its new console.

Rewind to a few months ago, and you might recall that at CES 2025, Genki showcased a Switch 2 mockup. This came three months before Nintendo's formal unveiling. At the time, Nintendo's lawyers reportedly visited Genki. Despite this, Genki maintained that they had not signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Nintendo and thus had "nothing to worry about."

Genki claimed that their mockup was based on a real Switch 2 system they had seen, which they used as a basis for their accessories. However, according to court documents obtained by IGN, Nintendo accuses Genki of launching a "strategic campaign" to exploit the public's interest in the next-generation console. The lawsuit cites trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.

Nintendo alleges that Genki boasted about having early access to the unreleased console and allowed guests to interact with the mockups. They further argue that Genki's claims of compatibility with the Nintendo Switch 2 could only be made with unauthorized access to the console, misleading the public about the compatibility of their products.

The court papers state that in January 2025, Genki advertised having unauthorized access to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, which had not yet been revealed by Nintendo. Initially, Genki claimed access to a genuine console, but later contradicted this, stating they never possessed one. Despite this, they continued to assure consumers that their accessories would be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 upon release.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

View 3 ImagesNintendo also claims that Genki infringed on its trademarks in its advertising, directly competing with Nintendo and its licensees' authorized accessory marketing.

Nintendo took issue with 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 pop-up on the Genki website that read: "Can you keep a secret? We can’t..."

In its lawsuit, Nintendo seeks to prevent Genki from using the "Nintendo Switch" name in its marketing, demands the destruction of any products or marketing referencing Nintendo's branding, and seeks unspecified damages for infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising, requesting these damages be tripled.

Over the weekend, Genki responded on social media, acknowledging the lawsuit and stating they are taking it seriously and working with legal counsel. They emphasized their independence and focus on innovative gaming accessories, reaffirming their commitment to quality and originality. Genki also mentioned ongoing preparations to fulfill orders and showcase new products at PAX East.

The statement concluded with thanks for the support received and a promise to share more information when possible, while staying focused on creating gear for gamers.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to debut on June 5, with pre-orders having started on April 24 at $449.99. Due to high demand, Nintendo has warned U.S. customers who pre-ordered from the My Nintendo Store that release date delivery is not guaranteed. For more information, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.