Nintendo Sues Genki Over Alleged Switch 2 Leak and Unauthorized Access

Accessory maker accused of false claims, trademark misuse, and leveraging pre-release buzz

Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against accessory manufacturer Genki for allegedly leaking information about the upcoming Switch 2 console before its official announcement. The gaming giant claims Genki gained unauthorized access to the unreleased console and used that information to promote its own accessories.

The dispute began in January 2025 when Genki showcased what it claimed were compatible accessories for the then-unannounced Nintendo Switch 2 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). According to the lawsuit, Genki's CEO, Edward Tsai, displayed 3D-printed mockups of the console to reporters and claimed the company had early access to Nintendo's next gaming system.

Nintendo's legal complaint states that Genki was never authorized to access pre-release models of the console. The company believes Genki either falsely claimed to have a genuine Nintendo Switch 2 or "unlawfully or illicitly obtained" one before its public release.

"Because Genki was not authorized by Nintendo to access pre-release models of Nintendo's newest console, it is unlikely that Genki ever had access to an authentic Nintendo Switch 2, belying its representations otherwise to the public," Nintendo argues in its lawsuit.

The situation created significant confusion among consumers. Many believed Genki was an authorized accessory partner who had received official permission to develop products for the unreleased console. This prompted Nintendo to issue a public statement on January 10, clarifying that "the gaming hardware that Genki presented as Nintendo hardware at CES is unofficial and was not provided to the company by us."

Following Nintendo's statement, Genki backtracked on its claims. A company representative admitted they never had access to an authentic pre-release model of the Nintendo Switch 2, instead claiming their models were based on industry "leaked" information. Despite this admission, Genki continued to promote its accessories as being compatible with the upcoming console.

The lawsuit details how Genki's marketing campaign deliberately capitalized on public interest in Nintendo's next-generation console. The accessory maker advertised that its products would be "immediately compatible" with the Nintendo Switch 2 on "day one" of the console's release. Their marketing materials boldly stated: "You saw the renders. You heard the buzz. Now it's time to get real."

Nintendo also accuses Genki of trademark infringement for using Nintendo's registered marks in its marketing materials. The lawsuit points to instances where Genki displayed Nintendo Switch logos on their mockups and used terms like "Joy-Con" (Nintendo's trademarked controller name) in product descriptions.

In April 2025, Genki further antagonized Nintendo by hosting its own "Genki Direct" presentation just hours after Nintendo's official Switch 2 Nintendo Direct event. The presentation featured styling similar to Nintendo's official events and immediately opened pre-orders for Switch 2 accessories with specific compatibility claims.

Nintendo's lawsuit includes five counts against Genki: Federal Trademark Infringement, Federal Unfair Competition, Federal False Advertising, California Common Law Trademark Infringement and Unfair Competition, and Statutory Unfair Competition Under California Law.

The gaming company is demanding Genki cease making accessories for the Switch 2 and revoke all rights to distribute products for the console. Nintendo also wants any existing inventory destroyed and is seeking damages that could potentially amount to millions of dollars.

As of the filing date, all of Genki's Switch 2 products remained available on their website.

For consumers interested in the upcoming Switch 2, scheduled for release in June 2025, the lawsuit serves as a reminder to be cautious about third-party accessories claiming compatibility with unreleased hardware (You never know when Nintendo might come after them!).

Update 11.30 pm IST: Genki has replied to Nintendo's legal complaint, stating that it is "taking it seriously" and is "continuing preparations to fulfill orders."

"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."