Nintendo and Genki Settle Switch 2 Lawsuit

Nintendo and the accessory manufacturer Genki have resolved their legal dispute concerning Genki's early promotion of products for the unreleased Switch 2 console. This resolution stipulates that Genki must cease using brand names and designs that could be confused with Nintendo's intellectual property and pay a confidential sum for damages incurred. The case highlights the importance of respecting intellectual property and controlling information related to upcoming product launches within the competitive tech industry.

The dispute originated earlier this year when Genki began marketing accessories for the then-unannounced Switch 2. A notable incident involved Genki displaying 3D-printed mockups of the Switch 2 at CES 2025 and subsequently airing its own 'Direct' presentation on the same day Nintendo publicly unveiled its new console. Nintendo quickly responded by initiating a lawsuit, alleging that Genki had showcased unauthorized representations of the Switch 2 and its accessories. Furthermore, Nintendo accused Genki of infringing on its trademarks by utilizing names such as 'Glitch' and 'Glitch 2,' which closely resembled its own brand terminology.

According to recently disclosed court documents, both parties have reached an agreement. As part of this settlement, Genki is now legally bound to abstain from using any logos or names that could be mistaken for Nintendo's. Specifically, Genki is barred from employing the terms 'Glitch,' 'Glitch 2,' 'Genki Direct,' and 'Genki Indirect' in its product advertising. A visit to Genki's official website confirms the removal of all mentions of these prohibited terms. The settlement also imposes restrictions on Genki's use of specific color schemes in its product packaging and marketing materials, ensuring they do not too closely mimic Nintendo's established brand identity. The core objective of these stipulations is to ensure that consumers clearly understand Genki's position as an unlicensed manufacturer, thereby avoiding any potential confusion with official Nintendo products.

This outcome marks another significant victory for Nintendo in its ongoing efforts to safeguard its intellectual property and control the narrative surrounding its product releases. The resolution sends a clear message to third-party manufacturers about the consequences of unauthorized product promotion and trademark infringement. It underscores Nintendo's commitment to maintaining strict control over its brand image and product launches, especially for highly anticipated devices like the Switch 2.