Nintendo has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against accessory manufacturer Genki after the company shared renders of a Nintendo Switch 2 prototype months before Nintendo's official console reveal.

Recall that earlier this year, Genki - the peripheral maker embroiled in Switch 2 mockup controversy during CES 2025 - received a legal visit from Nintendo's attorneys. At that time, Genki assured media outlets they hadn't signed any non-disclosure agreements with Nintendo, claiming they had "nothing to worry about."

The company told CES attendees its Switch 2 models, showcased three months before Nintendo's official announcement, were purportedly based on actual Switch 2 hardware Genki had accessed to design its compatible accessories.

According to court documents obtained by IGN, Nintendo alleges Genki launched "a deliberate marketing campaign designed to exploit public anticipation for Nintendo's next-generation console." The lawsuit cites trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising.

Nintendo claims Genki "publicized its alleged insider access to the unreleased console while allowing hands-on interaction with the mockups," arguing that compatibility claims "would require unlawful, unauthorized access to Switch 2 hardware... Genki has knowingly misled consumers regarding its accessory compatibility guarantees."

"In January 2025, the defendant began promoting unauthorized access to Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 console, which hadn't been officially announced or released," state the legal filings.

"After initially claiming possession of actual Switch 2 hardware, the defendant offered contradictory statements, later denying ever having a console. Despite this, the company continues assuring consumers its accessories will work with Switch 2 at launch."

Genki's Controversial Switch 2 Mockups from CES 2025

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Nintendo further accuses Genki of trademark violation in promotional materials and of "directly competing with Nintendo and its authorized licensees' legitimate accessory marketing."

The complaint highlights a January 20 tweet from Genki showing CEO Edward Tsai with a finger to his lips captioned: "Genki ninjas infiltrate Nintendo Kyoto HQ," along with a website pop-up reading: "Can you keep a secret? We can't..."

Nintendo seeks court orders preventing Genki from using "Nintendo Switch" trademarks, mandating destruction of all infringing products and marketing materials, and demanding unspecified damages (potentially tripled) for trademark violations and deceptive practices.

Genki recently posted a social media response stating: "We're aware of Nintendo's legal action and are working with counsel to respond appropriately."

"Genki remains an independent company committed to innovative gaming accessories. We stand by our products' quality and originality. While we can't discuss details, we're proceeding with production and preparing to showcase new items at PAX East."

The statement concluded by thanking supporters and emphasizing their continued focus on "creating quality gear for gamers."

The Nintendo Switch 2 launches June 5 with pre-orders opening April 24 at $449.99 - resulting in predictably high demand. Nintendo has warned U.S. customers who pre-ordered through its store that release day delivery isn't guaranteed due to overwhelming orders.

For detailed purchasing information, consult IGN's comprehensive Switch 2 pre-order guide.