Nintendo sues accessory manufacturer over Switch 2 images
The accessory manufacturer Genki wanted to draw attention to itself with speculative render images of the Switch 2. Now Nintendo is filing a lawsuit.
An official photo of the Switch 2.
(Image: Nintendo)
A few pictures, a few social media posts, even a video: The US manufacturer of gaming accessories Genki has taken full advantage of the hype surrounding the Switch 2 to draw attention to its own products. The problem: the Switch 2 had not even been unveiled at the time of its release. Nintendo has now filed a lawsuit against Genki in California.
Genki began a strategic campaign to exploit public interest in the new Nintendo console from December 2024 at the latest, Nintendo writes in the statement of claim. In doing so, Genki suggested access to internal Nintendo information that did not exist at any time. Among other things, Genki claimed to already own a real Switch 2. In addition, by using official Nintendo logos, Genki gave the impression that he was officially working with the Switch manufacturer.
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"Through its marketing efforts, Defendant continues to exploit the attention of the media and the fan community, displacing and threatening sales of Nintendo's own accessories," Nintendo further writes. For example, Genki held a "Genki Direct" just two hours after the Nintendo Direct livestream in which the Switch was presented. Genki again used graphics that corresponded to Nintendo's styling.
(Image:Â Nintendo)
Unfair competition and misleading advertising
Nintendo argues that Genki is causing confusion among customers with this type of marketing. In doing so, Genki exploits the basis of trust that exists between Nintendo and its own customers. Users who sell Genki products and discover defects could therefore also blame Nintendo for these errors.
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Nintendo therefore accuses Genki of trademark infringement, unfair competition and misleading advertising. Genki must refrain from such activities in the future, destroy previously built products and pay damages, Nintendo demands.
"We are taking this matter seriously and are working with our legal advisors to respond appropriately," Genki writes in a statement on the X platform.
(dahe)
