Genki to pay Nintendo after showing unofficial Switch 2 mockups at CES
In January of this year, accessory maker Genki claimed to have access to specifications for Nintendo's Switch 2 console and created a 3D mockup that they showcased at CES. Then they bragged about their compatible accessories and interviews, which incensed Nintendo.
It wasn't long before Nintendo hit them with a trademark infringement lawsuit. Initially, Genki seemed to play it down by claiming they would respond to the lawsuit "thoughtfully," but have now agreed to a settlement.
Genki will pay Nintendo an undisclosed sum in damages and has also agreed to stop using names that approximate Nintendo's Intellectual Property, such as the "Glitch 2" or "Genki Direct" livestreams.
In the lawsuit (first spotted by X user @OatmealDome), Nintendo accused the company of orchestrating "a strategic campaign" to profit from the hype surrounding the next console. Nintendo called out Genki's CEO, Edward Tsai, for telling reporters the company had access "to an authentic Switch 2."
Nintendo also took offence at the fact that Genki "updated its website and advertisements to boast about its early access to Nintendo Switch 2", not to mention the ad that they ran on the website stating "Can you keep a secret? We can't..."
In its defense, Genki stated that "it did not obtain access" to any Switch 2 hardware before launch and left it at that.
Genki is also prohibited from using any Nintendo branding on their accessories, including color schemes and logos on any of their future products for the Switch 2.
Recently, Nintendo won another lawsuit against a Mig Switch seller, who now has to pay the company $2 million in damages.
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