Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Surpass Gen 1's Sales Record in Japan
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have achieved a monumental milestone by becoming the best-selling Pokemon games of all time in Japan! This article delves into the historic achievement and the ongoing success of the Pokemon franchise.
Gen 1 Pokemon Games Dethroned by Scarlet and Violet
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have officially eclipsed their predecessors, surpassing Pokemon Red and Green to claim the title of the best-selling Pokemon games in Japan’s history. According to Famitsu, these games have sold an impressive 8.3 million units domestically, outpacing the original Red and Green (known internationally as Red and Blue) after a 28-year reign at the top.
Launched in 2022, Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution for the franchise as the first truly open-world Pokemon games. Players were granted the freedom to explore the expansive Paldea region without the constraints of previous linear gameplay. Despite facing technical challenges at launch, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues, the games experienced tremendous sales success.
In their initial three days on the market, Scarlet and Violet sold over 10 million copies worldwide, with 4.05 million of those sales originating from Japan. This launch not only set a new record for the best launch of a Nintendo Switch game but also achieved the highest debut for any Nintendo title in Japan, as announced by The Pokemon Company in 2022.
The original Pokemon Red and Green, released in Japan in 1996, introduced the world to the iconic Kanto region and its 151 Pokemon, sparking a global phenomenon that continues to thrive. As of March 2024, Pokemon Red, Blue, and Green still hold the record for worldwide Pokemon sales with 31.38 million units sold, followed closely by Pokemon Sword and Shield with 26.27 million units. However, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are rapidly gaining ground, with 24.92 million units sold globally.
As Scarlet and Violet near record-breaking global sales, their legacy within the Pokemon franchise is becoming increasingly solidified. The potential for further sales on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, along with ongoing updates, expansions, and events, positions these games to further cement their place in Pokemon history.
Despite a challenging launch due to performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have continued to thrive, bolstered by consistent updates and engaging events. The game's popularity remains strong, with a highly anticipated 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza scheduled from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
For more details on the event and tips on capturing this majestic dragon, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide below!
