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Iowa Gamer Sues Nintendo, Pokémon Over Certification Cut

5/20/2026

Summary

Kyle Owens Sues Nintendo

Kyle Owens of Laurens, Iowa sued Nintendo of America and The Pokémon Company International in Iowa for $341,000.
Owens says a background check showing a 2022 arrest warrant and older felony led the companies to cut his March 12, 2024 perfect score to 80 percent and reject his certification.
The complaint seeks an injunction for Owens to receive certification, tools, and the right to host sanctioned events, claiming the denial harms competition.

Summary

Nintendo Faces Lawsuit

The Owens case marks Nintendo’s second federal lawsuit in 2026, after a suit over Trump-related tariff refunds.
Nintendo’s earlier 2026 lawsuit alleged the company mishandled refunds tied to tariffs imposed during the U.S. President Donald Trump administration.
The Pokémon Company’s background-check requirement is presented as a safeguard intended to protect minors at organized play events.
Critics argue the background-check policy may create barriers for adult volunteers, potentially limiting community-run tournaments.

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Kyle Owens Sues Nintendo

Kyle Owens of Laurens, Iowa sued Nintendo of America and The Pokémon Company International in Iowa for $341,000.
Owens says a background check showing a 2022 arrest warrant and older felony led the companies to cut his March 12, 2024 perfect score to 80 percent and reject his certification.
The complaint seeks an injunction for Owens to receive certification, tools, and the right to host sanctioned events, claiming the denial harms competition.

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