On January 16, 2025, Nintendo officially revealed the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, accompanied by a trailer that confirmed many leaks about its design and features, including new magnetic joy-cons and a Mario Kart game. Despite Nintendo’s efforts to protect its intellectual property, the console faced significant scrutiny and leaks prior to its announcement. The company Genki showcased a 3D model of the console at CES 2025, leading to speculation about their access to the device, though they clarified their model was rumor-based. Nintendo is expected to address the leaks and potential infringements seriously.
Exciting Reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2
On Thursday, January 16, 2025, the anticipation reached a peak as the Japanese gaming giant unveiled the highly awaited **Nintendo Switch 2**. So far, we have glimpsed its sleek design through an engaging two-minute trailer, paired with the thrilling news of a new Mario Kart game set to launch alongside it. While Nintendo has planned **a dedicated event on April 2 to delve deeper into the console’s features**, one thing is crystal clear from the trailer: the speculations and leaks surrounding this release were accurate, and Nintendo has no intention of letting this situation unfold without a response.
The Nintendo Switch 2: A Leak-Filled Journey
Nintendo has a reputation for fiercely protecting its intellectual property, often taking action against those who attempt to copy its games or leak confidential information. Ironically, the Nintendo Switch 2 has emerged as one of the most scrutinized consoles in the history of gaming, with an overwhelming amount of leaks about its design, magnetic joy-cons featuring a new button, an expansive screen, and the inclusion of Mario Kart 9 during its reveal. Even the announcement date was widely circulated before Nintendo could fully manage its communications.
While it’s always wise to approach leaks with skepticism until official confirmation arrives, the trailer’s release confirmed that a significant portion of the rumors was accurate. Notably, the company Genki, which has been in the spotlight recently, seems to have possessed a 3D mold of the console ahead of time.
The Consequences for Leakers
During CES 2025, Genki made waves by displaying a preview of a 3D model of the Nintendo Switch 2, aiming to showcase future accessories for the device. Many speculated that they had access to an actual Switch 2, which allowed them to create the mold. However, upon further investigation by French journalist Julien Tellouck, Genki clarified that Nintendo had never collaborated with them, and the 3D model was solely based on circulating rumors. They confirmed that no Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) had been signed.
While Nintendo has yet to issue an official statement regarding this situation, it is likely that they will not overlook this matter. Although Genki may argue that their creation was rumor-based and therefore defensible, the fact remains that the console’s details have leaked, and Nintendo is expected to pursue those responsible for this breach. Unlike past instances, this time it appears to be a clear case of potential infringement, and Nintendo may take a strong stance against the so-called ‘Anime Life Sim’ that mirrors elements from Animal Crossing: New Horizons.