Nintendo Registers Trademarks for Duck Hunt, Mario Strikers, and More: What It Means for Switch Fans

Nintendo Registers Trademarks for Duck Hunt, Mario Strikers, and More: What It Means for Switch Fans Nintendo, a global leader in the gaming industry, continues to protect its legacy by filing new trademarks for several beloved franchises.

As of late October 2021, the company has officially registered trademarks for Duck Hunt, Excitebots, Happy Home Paradise, Mario Strikers, and Super Mario Land.

These registrations come alongside Nintendo’s ongoing strategy to safeguard its intellectual property—a practice that is common among major video game publishers. These trademark renewals, initially spotted via public records and confirmed by gaming news outlet Gematsu, have fueled discussions among Nintendo Switch owners and longtime fans.

While some may interpret these actions as a signal for potential new releases or remakes, industry experts note that Nintendo regularly renews trademarks to maintain control over its renowned brands.

In 2020, the company renewed 39 trademarks simultaneously, covering titles from niche experiments like Freaky Forms to classics such as Radar Mission.

This illustrates Nintendo’s commitment to managing its historic game library and keeping its brands exclusive within the market. Discussing the trademark activity, a Nintendo spokesperson noted that such practices are routine and serve primarily to prevent unauthorized use of iconic game names and concepts.

The renewal process allows Nintendo to ensure that its properties remain protected and continue to be associated solely with its platforms, such as the Nintendo Switch and digital storefronts like the eShop. Among the renewed trademarks, both Duck Hunt and Mario Strikers stand out as titles with strong fan followings.

Duck Hunt originally debuted on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1984 and remains a cultural touchstone, while Mario Strikers, developed by Next Level Games, achieved commercial and critical success since its GameCube debut in 2005.

Excitebots, another registered property, first launched on the Wii and expanded the Excite racing legacy started with Excitebike. Although the renewal of these trademarks does not guarantee new game announcements or appearances in upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations, it does reinforce the company’s emphasis on protecting its unique intellectual assets.

This continued stewardship of decades-spanning franchises means Nintendo maintains flexibility for future use, whether through re-releases, compilations, or other avenues on the Nintendo Switch and beyond.

Fans hopeful for new entries or remasters should temper expectations, as trademark filings alone rarely result in immediate game development news. As Nintendo moves forward with its portfolio, these trademark renewals serve as a reminder of the company’s rich history and enduring presence in the industry.

While no official announcements regarding new Duck Hunt, Mario Strikers, or Excitebots games have been made, Nintendo’s commitment to its legacy remains steadfast, ensuring these classics may continue to shape the gaming landscape for years to come.

Nintendo Mario Switch Super Mario Super Mario Land Mario Strikers Duck Hunt Excitebots Happy Home Paradise Nintendo Switch