In a dramatic legal move, Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against accessory maker Genki, accusing the company of misusing its trademarks and misleading customers regarding accessories for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. The lawsuit, filed on May 2, 2025, highlights serious allegations against Genki for what Nintendo describes as “trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.”
According to The Game Post, the issue started earlier this year when Genki revealed a 3D-printed mockup, claiming it was based on the official dimensions of the Switch 2, just days before the console’s official announcement. This mockup was accompanied by claims that Genki’s accessories would be fully compatible with the upcoming system at launch. However, Nintendo alleges that this misrepresentation of product compatibility and design has caused confusion among potential buyers.
Genki’s Alleged Trademark Violations and False Advertising
Nintendo’s complaint outlines five separate counts against Genki, accusing the company of violating multiple laws, including the Trademark Act of 1946. The core of the lawsuit lies in the accusation that Genki’s use of Nintendo’s trademarks has created confusion among customers, leading them to believe that Genki’s products are authorized by Nintendo itself.
Nintendo’s legal team argues that while Genki’s accessories were marketed as being compatible with the Switch 2, the company has been inconsistent about whether the designs were based on official or unofficial information. This lack of clarity, according to Nintendo, likely misled customers into thinking the products were officially licensed, potentially harming the trust Nintendo fans have in the brand.
The Impact of Genki’s Actions on Nintendo’s Reputation
The crux of Nintendo’s legal argument is the claim that Genki’s actions could cause significant harm to the Nintendo brand. According to Nintendo’s lawyers, any flaws or issues with Genki’s products could be attributed to the Nintendo name, thereby damaging its reputation. This is especially concerning given the strong loyalty Nintendo fans have for the brand, which Genki’s marketing is alleged to have exploited for commercial gain.
In the lawsuit, Nintendo is seeking compensation for damages suffered as a result of these alleged actions. The company is also requesting the court to order Genki to cease selling products that use Nintendo’s trademarks in connection with the Switch 2.
Genki Responds to the Lawsuit
In a public statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), Genki acknowledged the lawsuit, expressing its commitment to responding thoughtfully with legal counsel. The company emphasized its independent status, focusing on creating innovative gaming accessories for the community. Genki’s statement also reiterated their pride in the quality and originality of their products, despite the ongoing legal challenges.
“We’re grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve received so far,” Genki’s team wrote, noting that they remain focused on fulfilling orders and preparing for upcoming product showcases at PAX East. While Genki refrained from providing detailed comments on the lawsuit, the company assured fans that it would continue its work of building gaming gear for the community.
The Precedent of Early Accessory Announcements for Switch 2
Genki is not the first company to unveil accessories for the Switch 2 ahead of its official reveal. In fact, other accessory makers like Dbrand also teased products such as a Switch 2 case back in December 2024, while other smaller companies followed suit by announcing screen protectors and other accessories. Early product reveals like these are not uncommon, especially in industries like smartphones, where accessory makers often act on leaked specifications or rumors to predict upcoming product features.
However, Nintendo’s legal action against Genki indicates that the company is drawing a firm line when it comes to how its intellectual property is used, particularly concerning the highly anticipated Switch 2. While accessory makers have historically taken risks based on leaks, Genki’s actions seem to have crossed a threshold that Nintendo is unwilling to tolerate.
As the lawsuit progresses, all eyes will be on how this case unfolds. Genki’s response to the legal action will be crucial, and fans of both companies are eagerly awaiting updates. Will this legal battle affect the availability of Genki’s products, or will it push the company to rethink its approach to marketing in the gaming accessories space?
While Nintendo has yet to provide an official comment on the matter, it’s clear that the company is serious about protecting its intellectual property and maintaining the integrity of its brand. For now, Genki is focused on its work in the gaming community, though it remains to be seen how this lawsuit will impact their future operations.
Nintendo’s lawsuit against Genki serves as a reminder of the importance of brand integrity and the legal challenges that can arise when trademarks are misused. As the case continues, the gaming community will be closely watching the fallout and how it might affect the relationship between Nintendo and accessory makers. For now, Genki must navigate its legal troubles while continuing to fulfill orders and build new products for gamers.
