Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have achieved a monumental feat, surpassing the legendary Pokémon Red and Green to become the best-selling Pokémon games in Japan! Let's delve into this historic milestone and the enduring success 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 overtaken their predecessors, claiming the title of Japan's best-selling Pokémon games. With a staggering 8.3 million units sold domestically, as reported by Famitsu, they've ended the 28-year reign of the original Red and Green (known internationally as Red and Blue).
Launched in 2022, Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution for the franchise. As the series' first truly open-world titles, they offered players unprecedented freedom to explore the Paldea region, a stark contrast to the linearity of previous installments. This ambitious design, however, came with challenges; launch day saw numerous reports of technical issues, including graphical glitches and frame rate problems. Despite these initial setbacks, the games were a phenomenal success.
Within their first three days, they sold over 10 million copies globally, with an impressive 4.05 million of those sales originating from Japan. This remarkable start shattered several records, including the best 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.
Released in Japan in 1996, the original Pokémon Red and Green 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 record for worldwide Pokémon sales, with 31.38 million units sold. Pokémon Sword and Shield follow closely behind with 26.27 million units sold. However, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are rapidly closing the gap, having already sold 24.92 million units.
As Pokémon Scarlet and Violet approach record-breaking global sales figures, their lasting impact is undeniable. With the potential for further sales boosts on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, combined with ongoing updates, expansions, and events, these games are poised to further cement their place in Pokémon history.
Despite a challenging launch hampered by performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have thrived, largely due to consistent updates and engaging events. The game's popularity continues its upward trajectory, 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 strategies for capturing this magnificent dragon, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide!
