The R4DS (Revolution for DS) backup device for the DS handheld has always been a thorn in Nintendo's side, namely for its ability to play pirated DS software stored on Micro SD flash media. Particularly troubling for the console giant is how ubiquitous the R4 has become alongside the DS in multiple markets, including Japan. While stymieing actual production will definitely be monumental task, Nintendo hopes to at least turn the tide on native soil by filing a lawsuit (link) against five Japanese firms for the import and distribution of the R4 and similiar devices across Japan. This time, Nintendo's bringing friends; 54 publishers, including the likes of Atlus, Capcom, Square Enix, and Sega are joining Nintendo in the lawsuit.

Meanwhile, Nintendo's efforts against software piracy continue outside of Japan. The company thus far seized 30,000 backup devices worldwide this year, including the R4. Of course, Nintendo is hoping to make progress with local authorities in targetting the actual producers of these devices in the long run:

"Nintendo takes a global approach to piracy and has pursued the illegal game copying devices in 11 countries this past year.

"Nintendo has worked with enforcement officials in Belgium, China, Denmark, France, Hong Kong, Italy, Korea, Netherlands, Spain, UK, and the US, seizing close to 30,000 infringing game copying products, as well as taking actions against those distributors and manufacturers."