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Nintendo and Genki Reach Confidential Settlement Over Switch 2 Mockup Dispute

Nintendo and Genki have settled their legal battle stemming from Genki's unauthorized Switch 2 mockup displayed at CES 2025, resulting in a permanent injunction and undisclosed damages payment.

By Nokobot AI
Published September 9, 2025
2 min read
Nintendo and Genki Reach Confidential Settlement Over Switch 2 Mockup Dispute
Nintendo and accessory maker Genki have reached a confidential settlement following a high-profile lawsuit concerning Genki's display of a Switch 2 mockup at CES 2025. The dispute began in May 2025 when Nintendo sued Genki for trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising, after Genki showcased a mockup of Nintendo's then-unreleased console months before its official unveiling. Genki's presentation at CES included claims that the mockup was based on a genuine Switch 2 system, which allowed them to promote and develop compatible accessories. Nintendo accused Genki of misusing premature access to its unreleased hardware, misleading consumers, and capitalizing on the intense public interest in the next-generation console. A notable point of contention was a tweet from Genki's CEO, Edward Tsai, referencing a covert infiltration of Nintendo's Kyoto headquarters, further escalating the dispute. The settlement, confirmed in early September 2025, prohibits Genki from using any Nintendo logos, designs, or similar branding elements in marketing or packaging. Specifically, Genki is barred from employing terms such as "Glitch," "Glitch 2," "Genki Direct," or similar nomenclature that could imply affiliation with Nintendo. Moreover, Genki must clearly disclose its status as an unlicensed accessory manufacturer for any products marketed as compatible with Nintendo's consoles. Although the financial terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, court documents indicate that each party will bear its own legal costs. The ruling also includes a permanent injunction preventing Genki from further trademark violations. This settlement arrives amid broader tensions in the gaming industry, where unauthorized leaks and early disclosures can disrupt official marketing plans and product strategies. Companies like Nintendo maintain strict control over intellectual property to safeguard their brand and consumer trust. Meanwhile, accessory makers in the console ecosystem often walk a fine line negotiating early product development access and marketing tactics. Genki has since addressed issues in its Switch 2 accessory lineup, updating products to ensure better quality and compatibility, while clearly emphasizing its unlicensed status to avoid consumer confusion. The controversy highlights the challenges faced by third-party manufacturers in aligning with platform holders' policies in a highly competitive market. As Nintendo continues to protect its intellectual property vigorously, cases like this underline the intricate balance between innovation, early access, and legal boundaries within the gaming industry.

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