Genki previously leaked a Switch 2 mockup at CES 2025, and now, a US judge is requesting that the company pay Nintendo for the damages it caused on its product.
The lawsuit, filed in May 2025, accused Genki of trademark infringement after it showcased renders of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 months before the official unveiling.
Unauthorized Switch 2 Mockup Sparks Legal Battle
Nintendo sued Genki for trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising after the company released a mockup of the Switch 2 at CES 2025. Genki claimed the mockup was based on a real Switch 2 system it had seen and used for designing accessories.
Nintendo argued that releasing the mockup prematurely, three months before the official Switch 2 reveal, was an intentional effort to exploit public interest and mislead consumers.
Genki defended itself by stating it never signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Nintendo and had "nothing to worry about." Despite this, Nintendo's lawyers visited Genki's CES booth to address the situation.
Misleading Consumers
Nintendo's lawsuit pointed to Genki's claims about early access to the unreleased Switch 2, asserting that it misled the public by stating its accessories would be compatible with the new console.
According to IGN, Nintendo argued that such compatibility could only be guaranteed with unauthorized access to the Switch 2. Genki's contradictory statements, initially claiming to have seen the console before later denying possession, fueled the controversy.
In addition to the mockup reveal, Nintendo took issue with a tweet from Genki CEO Edward Tsai in January 2025. The tweet, which featured the caption, "Genki ninjas invade Nintendo Kyoto HQ," sparked further speculation about Genki's alleged early access to Nintendo's upcoming console.
Settlement Terms and Restrictions on Genki
Following legal proceedings, a settlement was reached between Nintendo and Genki. While the exact amount remains undisclosed, Genki denied obtaining a Switch 2 before its official release.
[Genki]
— OatmealDome (@OatmealDome) September 9, 2025
Nintendo and Genki have reached a settlement in the lawsuit over Genki's exhibition of a Switch 2 mockup at CES 2025.
Genki will pay Nintendo damages (the amount is confidential).
Genki also attests that they did not illegally obtain a pre-launch Switch 2. pic.twitter.com/zltUkzQ90y
The settlement includes a permanent injunction, prohibiting Genki from using any of Nintendo's logos or designs, or anything likely to be confused with Nintendo's trademarks.
Additionally, Genki is barred from using terms such as "Glitch," "Glitch 2," or "Genki Direct," or any branding resembling Nintendo properties. The company must also clearly label its accessories as coming from an unauthorized manufacturer to avoid misleading consumers into thinking they are official Nintendo products.
Warning to Accessory Makers
Big N has a history of filing lawsuits when it comes to Nintendo branding. The Japanese gaming giant ensures that every accessory manufacturer respects their intellectual property rights. Nintendo also reportedly fined the modder $2 million for continuing to sell unauthorized Nintendo products
