Nintendo Sues Genki Over Unofficial Switch 2 Accessories and Trademark Misuse

Nintendo has initiated legal action against Genki, an accessory manufacturer, over allegations of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising related to unofficial Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

Earlier this year, Genki showcased a 3D-printed mockup claiming it was based on the official dimensions of the yet-to-be-revealed Nintendo Switch 2 console. Following this, Genki began marketing accessories purported to be compatible with the new system at launch.

Nintendo's lawsuit, filed on May 2nd, asserts that Genki’s use of Nintendo’s trademarks is misleading and likely to cause consumer confusion. The complaint highlights that customers may mistakenly attribute any defects or shortcomings in Genki’s products to Nintendo itself.

The complaint also notes inconsistencies in Genki’s claims about the authenticity of their product designs, which were allegedly not based on official access to the Switch 2 hardware. Nintendo argues that Genki is exploiting the trust and loyalty of Nintendo fans, causing actionable harm to the brand.

Nintendo seeks a court order to stop Genki from selling products bearing Nintendo’s trademarks and compensation for damages incurred due to the alleged violations.

In response, Genki issued a statement emphasizing its independence and commitment to quality and originality. The company acknowledged the lawsuit and confirmed ongoing preparations to fulfill orders and present new products at PAX East.

This legal dispute highlights the challenges accessory makers face when developing products ahead of official hardware announcements. While early accessory releases are common in industries like smartphones, Nintendo appears determined to protect its intellectual property and brand reputation rigorously.

As the gaming industry evolves, this case underscores the importance of clear legal boundaries and brand protection strategies for companies and accessory manufacturers alike.