Nintendo Refutes Reports of Lobbying Against Generative AI in Japan, Reaffirms IP Protection Stance

Nintendo Refutes Reports of Lobbying Against Generative AI in Japan, Reaffirms IP Protection Stance In a recent turn of events, Nintendo, one of the most prominent names in the gaming industry, has formally addressed emerging reports suggesting its involvement in lobbying the Japanese government against generative AI technologies.

The rumors, which quickly gained traction online, prompted Nintendo to issue a clear and official response via its Japanese X/Twitter account, emphasizing the company's ongoing commitment to intellectual property (IP) protection. Background and Initial Report The story originated from Satoshi Asano, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives, who discussed generative AI and potential lobbying efforts by private companies in a widely viewed social media post.

His comments led to widespread speculation that Nintendo, known for its iconic franchises and strict IP policies, was directly lobbying government officials to regulate generative AI tools that could impact the gaming industry or infringe on creative works associated with Nintendo Switch titles and the eShop catalog. Nintendo's Official Statement Addressing the circulating rumors, Nintendo categorically denied any interaction with the Japanese government regarding generative AI.

In a statement posted in both Japanese and English, the company clarified: “Despite recent discussions online, Nintendo has not had any contact with the Japanese government about generative AI.

Regardless of whether generative AI is involved, we will continue to take necessary actions to protect our intellectual property rights.” This statement underscores Nintendo’s position that, while the company remains vigilant about protecting its IP—especially across major platforms like the Nintendo Switch and eShop—it has not participated in any government lobbying related to generative AI.

The dual-language release highlights the seriousness and global relevance of the company’s stance. Retraction from Satoshi Asano Following Nintendo’s official clarification, Satoshi Asano posted a retraction, recognizing and correcting the error in his previous statements.

He noted that, after directly engaging with Nintendo, there was no factual basis for claims of lobbying.

Asano further clarified: “Nintendo is cautious about the use of generative AI in game development from the perspective of intellectual property protection.

It does not engage in lobbying activities towards the government.

Regarding IP infringement, it takes appropriate measures regardless of the presence or absence of AI.” Ongoing Focus on IP Protection Nintendo’s swift response and clear communication reflect the company’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding its intellectual property in an evolving digital landscape.

As generative AI technologies continue to advance, companies like Nintendo are increasingly vigilant about the implications for creative works, particularly their extensive game library on platforms like Nintendo Switch and the eShop. For now, Nintendo maintains its focus on ensuring its games, characters, and brands—recognized globally and responsible for record-setting hardware and software sales—remain protected as technology evolves, without engaging in government lobbying activities regarding AI regulation. Stay tuned to our Nintendo news section for further updates about generative AI, IP protection, and other developments impacting the gaming industry.

Nintendo Japan AI Japanese government generative AI Generative AI House of Representatives Satoshi Asano Nintendo Switch eShop