Switch modders arrested for selling consoles with ‘improved’ performance

Four Men Arrested for Selling Modified Nintendo Switch Consoles

A quartet of individuals in Japan have admitted to distributing altered Nintendo Switch devices, which they assert offer enhanced performance compared to the standard model. The consoles, however, were not officially endorsed by Nintendo, sparking legal action against the group.

Nintendo has consistently emphasized its stance on hardware modifications, particularly when they are sold for profit. The company has long been vocal about opposing such activities, as seen in the case of Gary Bowser, who was fined £11 million for distributing modified Switch consoles. This hefty penalty remains unpaid by him to this day.

Despite these efforts, the trend persists. Recently, four men were charged with selling Switch consoles allegedly modified to run pirated games and boast improved performance. According to YTV, as reported by Automaton, the group modified 45 units and sold 15 via social media last year.

Their earnings from these sales are estimated to range between 600,000 and 900,000 yen, equivalent to £2,837 to £4,256. While the exact price per console isn’t specified, the minimum amount per unit was likely 40,000 yen, or approximately £189—substantially lower than the official price of £259.99.

Among the accused, two are teenagers aged 18 and 19, while the others are in their 20s and 30s. They confessed to their actions, claiming they were “just trying to make some pocket money.” The Kyoto Prefectural Police referred the case to prosecutors after receiving guidance from Nintendo.

Although the claim of improved performance remains unverified, it appears irrelevant to the charges. The group is primarily accused of breaching Japan’s Trademark Act, which protects Nintendo’s intellectual property. This marks a significant step in legal enforcement against modified console sales.

Previously, a man in his 50s faced a two-year suspended prison sentence for similar offenses. He also received a 500,000 yen fine, roughly £2,365, which, while notable, pales in comparison to Gary Bowser’s £11 million penalty.

It is likely the four men will receive comparable penalties, possibly including suspended sentences and fines. Whether these fines will be shared collectively or assigned individually remains to be determined.

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