Accessory maker Gamevice is suing Nintendo for allegedly violating the patents behind its game-themed tablet peripherals and hardware.
As reported by Engadget, the filing shows Gamevice is taking particular issue with a perceived violation of its patent for a “combination computing device and game controller with flexible bridge section.”
The manufacturer claims Nintendo’s creation is suspiciously similar to its Wikipad (picture A), which is a fully functioning, Android-based tablet computer that can be used with a detachable control holster.
It also suggests the Switch’s removable Joy-Con controllers, which slide downwards onto either side of the tablet-like console, are too similar to its own Gamevice detachable controllers (picture B).
The company is seeking damages from Nintendo and also wants the Switch to be pulled from shelves.
Of course, there are some clear differences between the two products. For starters, Nintendo’s controllers feature a bunch of other tech, and can be used individually or as a pair when detached from the main console.
The Switch’s Joy-Cons also slide and securely clip onto the console, while the Gamevice controllers are simply designed to grip onto a variety of third-party tablets. Both Nintendo and Gamevice have yet to comment on the lawsuit.
