Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Surpasses Gen 1's Sales Record in Japan

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Conquer Japan's Sales Charts

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have achieved a monumental feat, surpassing the iconic Pokemon Red and Green to become the top-selling Pokemon games in Japan! This article delves into this remarkable milestone and the ongoing triumph of the Pokemon franchise.

A New Era for Pokemon in Japan

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have officially claimed the title of best-selling Pokemon games in Japan, boasting a staggering 8.3 million units sold domestically, as reported by Famitsu. This victory ends 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 true open-world titles, players could explore the Paldea region with unprecedented freedom, a departure from the linear gameplay of previous installments. However, this ambitious design came with technical challenges at launch, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues. Despite these initial setbacks, the games were an instant commercial success.

Within their first three days, over 10 million copies were sold globally, with an impressive 4.05 million from Japan alone. This remarkable launch shattered multiple records, including the best-ever launch for a Nintendo Switch game and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan, according to The Pokemon Company's 2022 press release.

Released in Japan in 1996, the original Pokemon Red and Green introduced the world to the beloved Kanto region and its 151 Pokemon, sparking a global phenomenon that continues to captivate millions. As of March 2024, Pokemon Red, Blue, and Green still hold the record for worldwide sales with 31.38 million units sold, followed closely by Pokemon Sword and Shield with 26.27 million. However, Scarlet and Violet are rapidly catching up, with 24.92 million units sold.

The enduring appeal of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet is undeniable. With the potential for even greater sales on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, along with continued updates, expansions, and events, these games are poised to leave an indelible mark on Pokemon history.

Despite a challenging launch, Scarlet and Violet have thrived, largely due to consistent updates and engaging events. The game's popularity continues to grow, with a 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza planned from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025.

For details on this event and strategies for capturing this legendary dragon, consult our comprehensive guide!