Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Record-Breaking Sales in Japan

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Conquer Japan's Sales Charts

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

A New Era for Pokemon in Japan

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have shattered records, claiming the top spot in Japan with an impressive 8.3 million units sold domestically, according to Famitsu. This victory ends the 28-year reign of the original Red and Green (known internationally as Red and Blue).

Released in 2022, Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution for the franchise. As the series' first open-world titles, they offered players unprecedented freedom to explore the Paldea region. While the ambitious open-world design initially faced criticism due to technical issues at launch, the games' popularity was undeniable.

Within their first three days, they sold over 10 million copies worldwide, with a staggering 4.05 million from Japan alone. This phenomenal launch broke numerous records, including the best launch for a Nintendo Switch game and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan.

The original Pokemon Red and Green, released in 1996, introduced the world to the Kanto region and its iconic 151 Pokemon, sparking a global phenomenon. 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 Scarlet and Violet is clear. With the potential for even greater sales on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 (backward compatibility pending), alongside continued updates, expansions, and events, these games are set to leave an indelible mark on Pokemon history.

Despite initial performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have thrived, thanks to consistent updates and engaging events. The excitement continues with a 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza, running from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025.

For detailed information on this event and strategies for capturing Rayquaza, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide!