Nintendo Seeks Multi-Million Dollar Damages in Switch Piracy Lawsuit

In a significant legal development, Nintendo of America is pursuing a substantial claim of $4.5 million in compensation from James 'Archbox' Williams, an individual accused of extensive Nintendo Switch game piracy. This pursuit follows Williams' failure to contest the allegations or appear in court, leading to a default judgment in Nintendo's favor. The gaming giant's proactive stance in this case underscores its unwavering commitment to safeguarding its intellectual property and deterring the widespread distribution of unauthorized software.

Nintendo's Legal Battle Against Switch Piracy Escalates, Demanding $4.5 Million from Alleged Offender

In a recent legal update on October 24, 2025, Nintendo of America officially stated its intention to claim $4.5 million (approximately £3.355 million) in damages from James 'Archbox' Williams, alongside a permanent injunction to prevent future acts of piracy. This comes after Williams, who previously served as the lead moderator for the r/SwitchPirates subreddit, failed to respond to legal proceedings initiated by Nintendo. The default judgment, granted on November 8, 2024, in the Superior Court of Washington, allows Nintendo to seek the full amount of requested damages. Nintendo accuses Williams of being a self-confessed 'pirate' who operated several 'pirate shops,' facilitating the unauthorized reproduction and distribution of thousands of copyrighted Nintendo Switch games. Despite an attorney claiming to represent Williams contacting Nintendo in January 2025, no further communication or defense has been presented. This case is a stark reminder of Nintendo's ongoing efforts to combat video game piracy, including significant investments in developing and updating its Technical Protection Measures (TPMs) and rigorously investigating piracy reports. Another related lawsuit against modchip seller Modded Hardware, involving its alleged owner Ryan Daly, is also progressing, with Daly representing himself in court.

This case serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of intellectual property rights in the creative industries. Nintendo's determined action against piracy highlights the severe consequences individuals may face for unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material. It underscores that while technology offers new avenues for content sharing, it also necessitates vigilance in protecting creators' investments and ensuring fair compensation for their work. This outcome could set a precedent, influencing how other companies address similar challenges in the digital age and reinforcing the legal boundaries against intellectual property infringement.