The rumor mill surrounding Nintendo’s next-generation console, tentatively known as the Switch 2, went into overdrive at CES 2025, sparked by accessory maker Genki’s display of a full-sized mockup of the purported device. This mockup, initially presented as a replica based on the actual console, fueled speculation and generated considerable online buzz. However, the situation quickly escalated when reports emerged that Nintendo’s legal team had paid a visit to Genki’s booth at the trade show, raising concerns about the legitimacy and source of the mockup. The incident underscores the intense secrecy surrounding the Switch 2 and Nintendo’s vigilance in protecting its intellectual property.
Genki’s initial teaser, showcased on their website and in a video, depicted a handheld console bearing a striking resemblance to the Nintendo Switch, albeit with a larger display. While the precise distinction between Genki’s accessories and the console itself remained ambiguous, the overall design aligned closely with previously leaked images, further fueling the speculation. Notably, the teaser also featured Joy-Cons that snapped onto the console’s sides, a departure from the sliding mechanism of the original Switch, corroborating rumors of a magnetic attachment system for the new controllers.
The ensuing legal intervention by Nintendo added another layer of complexity to the situation. According to reports from CES, Nintendo’s lawyers indeed visited Genki’s booth. However, Genki representatives asserted that they had no cause for concern, having not signed any non-disclosure agreements with Nintendo. This statement suggests that Genki believed they were operating within legal boundaries, despite the close resemblance of their mockup to leaked images and the subsequent attention it garnered.
Genki’s narrative regarding the mockup’s origins evolved over time. Initially, the company claimed the mockup was based on the actual console they had seen, used as a reference for developing compatible accessories. However, this claim was later retracted, with Genki clarifying that the mockup was, in fact, derived from leaked information within the industry and not from direct access to the actual Switch 2. This backtracking further complicated the issue and raised questions about the reliability of information surrounding the upcoming console.
Nintendo’s official response to the incident was predictably cautious. The company stated that the images and mockup were “not official,” refraining from confirming or denying their accuracy. In a separate statement, Nintendo reiterated that the Genki mockup was “unofficial and was not provided to the company by us,” further distancing themselves from the incident and emphasizing their lack of involvement in its creation. This careful wording maintained the air of mystery surrounding the Switch 2 while simultaneously protecting their intellectual property.
Amid the swirling rumors and speculation, some concrete details about the Switch 2 have emerged from official sources. Nintendo has confirmed that the console will be announced before April 1, 2025, the end of their fiscal year. Crucially, they have also confirmed backwards compatibility with existing Nintendo Switch games, a significant feature for current Switch owners. Furthermore, digital purchases made for the Switch will reportedly carry over to the new console, ensuring a seamless transition for users. Finally, Nintendo Switch Online will also be available on the Switch 2, maintaining the online ecosystem and services for subscribers. However, until Nintendo provides an official reveal, all other information, including images, mockups, and speculated features, remains firmly in the realm of rumor and conjecture.
