Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have achieved a remarkable feat, surpassing the iconic Pokémon Red and Green to claim the title of best-selling Pokémon games in Japan! This article delves into this monumental achievement and the ongoing triumph of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Shatter Sales Records in Japan
Gen 1 Pokémon Games Toppled by Scarlet and Violet
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have officially outperformed their predecessors, securing the top spot as the best-selling Pokémon games in Japan's history. Famitsu reports a staggering 8.3 million units sold domestically, ending the 28-year reign of the original Red and Green (known internationally as Red and Blue).
Released in 2022, Scarlet and Violet represented a significant advancement for the franchise. As the series' first truly open-world titles, they offered players unprecedented freedom to explore the Paldea region, a departure from the linear structure of previous installments. This ambitious design, however, came with initial challenges: players encountered various technical difficulties upon launch, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues. Despite these setbacks, the games enjoyed phenomenal sales.
Within their first three days, over 10 million copies were sold globally, with a remarkable 4.05 million from Japan alone. This impressive launch broke numerous records, including the best-ever launch for a Nintendo Switch game and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan, according to The Pokémon Company's 2022 press release.
The original Pokémon Red and Green, launched in Japan in 1996, introduced the world to the beloved Kanto region and its iconic 151 Pokémon, sparking a global phenomenon that continues to captivate millions. As of March 2024, Pokémon Red, Blue, and Green still hold the global sales record with 31.38 million units sold. Pokémon Sword and Shield follow closely with 26.27 million units sold. However, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are rapidly catching up, boasting 24.92 million units sold.
As Pokémon Scarlet and Violet near record-breaking global sales figures, their lasting impact is undeniable. Further sales growth is anticipated on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, alongside ongoing updates, expansions, and events, solidifying their place in Pokémon history.
Despite a challenging launch hampered by performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have persisted, largely due to consistent updates and in-game events. The game's popularity continues to rise, with a 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza scheduled from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
For detailed information on this event and optimal strategies for capturing this magnificent dragon, consult our comprehensive guide!
