Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against a third-party accessory manufacturer, alleging trademark infringement, false advertising, and unfair competition
Legal proceedings have been initiated by Nintendo against a company producing third-party accessories, alleging that the firm engaged in trademark infringement and misleading advertising practices.
Recent documents filed in a Californian court reveal that Nintendo has accused Genki of these violations. The lawsuit references actions taken by Genki, including the public display of a speculative model of the Switch 2 console in January 2025, preceding Nintendo's official release slated for April 2.
Nintendo's legal team highlights that by December 2024, Genki had already begun efforts aimed at exploiting the excitement surrounding Nintendo’s forthcoming console. In January 2025, Genki reportedly claimed unauthorized access to the yet-to-be-released Switch 2, using this claim to promote accessories purportedly compatible with the new device. Additionally, Genki declared its intent to sell these accessories in conjunction with the console’s release.
Nintendo disputes Genki's assertions about the accessories' compatibility with the Switch 2, emphasizing that these claims require access to the actual console, which Genki allegedly did not have. Nintendo further argues that Genki must have either fabricated their claims of compatibility or unlawfully accessed sensitive technical information about the console.
The suit seeks to prevent Genki from using Nintendo’s protected marks, such as the Nintendo Switch logo and name, and requests the cessation of any misleading statements regarding accessory compatibility with the Switch 2. Nintendo is also asking for measures to be taken against Genki to dismantle products or promotional materials infringing on these rights.
Nintendo is pursuing a court order for an audit of Genki's profits to determine damages and proposes that the amount, potentially tripled, reflects Genki's alleged trademark violations, unfair competition, and deceptive advertising.
In response, Genki released a statement on their social media, acknowledging the lawsuit. The company stated they are treating the matter seriously and are consulting legal experts for a comprehensive response.
"Genki has always functioned independently, striving to create cutting-edge gaming accessories for the community we cherish. We're confident in the quality and innovation of our offerings," the statement read. Despite the controversy, Genki plans to continue processing orders and presenting their latest innovations at PAX East.