Regarding recent market rumors that Nintendo is lobbying the Japanese government for generative AI regulations, Nintendo earlier denied this claim through an official "X" statement, and stated that regardless of whether the content involves AI technology, once it is determined to infringe its intellectual property rights, the company will take appropriate action to ensure that its IP and brand value are not harmed.
The incident was caused by a post on "X" by Satoshi Asano, a member of the House of Representatives of the Democratic Party for the People of Japan, in which he alleged that in order to protect its IP assets, Nintendo not only avoided using generative AI technology but also actively lobbied the government for it.
The post was subsequently widely shared, even cited by some overseas media outlets and forums, leading to the rapid spread of the rumor that Nintendo was pressuring the government. Although the post was later corrected, it had already sparked discussion and misunderstanding on overseas forums like Reddit. As the rumor spread, Nintendo ultimately issued a rare public clarification.
When the company generates AI, it is related to the Japanese government and the Japanese government. There is no use of the AI generated by the company, and there is no violation of the IP of the company.ると Judgment したものについては, appropriate な対応をとる Policy としております.
- 任天堂 株式会社 （企業 広 報 ・ IR） (@NintendoCoLtd) October 5, 2025
The first part of the privately submitted content the day before yesterday, the IP protection of private companies The correct part of the contact information is the correct information of the company. Conclusion: として, ロビイングの事実はなく, private submission content is erroneous informationがまれていた事が分かりましたのでcorrectionさせていただきます. The special relationship between the person and the person... https://t.co/x1oJEq939O
— Asano Satoshi 🌿Member of the House of Representatives 🌿Democratic Party for the People 🌿Ibaraki 5th Ward (Hitachi City, Takahagi City, Kitaibaraki City, Tokai Village) (@Asano__Satoshi) October 5, 2025
Following Nintendo's statement, Asano deleted his original post, admitted his statement was inaccurate, and apologized. This incident reflects how, with generative AI attracting global attention, the actions of industry giants can be easily magnified and interpreted, even becoming fodder for political speculation.
Nintendo has always taken a strong stance on intellectual property protection. In the past, unauthorized game emulators, fan creations, and commercial activities that infringe upon its character imagery could result in legal letters or legal action. Now, with AI-generated content becoming increasingly prevalent, Nintendo's stance remains clear: it will not relax its standards for determining IP infringement, but it has no intention of completely banning the use of AI technology through policy measures.
While this misinformation has been officially clarified, it has also highlighted the tension between AI and copyright. As more technology companies and the film and entertainment industry actively explore the application of AI in creative production, striking a balance between innovation and copyright protection will continue to be a key issue for both industry and government.
