Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Surpass Gen 1's Sales Record in Japan
The latest installment in the iconic Pokemon franchise, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, has achieved a remarkable feat by eclipsing the sales records set by the original Pokemon Red and Green in Japan. With an impressive 8.3 million units sold domestically, according to Famitsu, these games have dethroned the long-standing champions after their 28-year reign.
Launched in 2022, Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution for the series by introducing the first truly open-world experience in the Pokemon universe. Players were granted the freedom to explore the vast Paldea region, a departure from the more structured gameplay of previous titles. Despite some initial technical challenges, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues, the games quickly became a sensation.
In their initial three days on the market, Scarlet and Violet sold over 10 million copies worldwide, with 4.05 million of those sales coming from Japan alone. This stellar performance not only set a new benchmark for Nintendo Switch game launches but also marked the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan, as announced by The Pokemon Company in 2022.
The original Pokemon Red and Green, which debuted in Japan in 1996, introduced players to the enchanting Kanto region and its 151 Pokemon, igniting a global phenomenon that continues to thrive. As of March 2024, these classic titles still hold the record for worldwide Pokemon game sales, with a total of 31.38 million units sold. Pokemon Sword and Shield are not far behind, with 26.27 million units, while Scarlet and Violet are hot on their heels with 24.92 million units sold globally.
As Scarlet and Violet continue their ascent towards breaking global sales records, their lasting impact on the franchise is unmistakable. With the potential for further sales on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, along with ongoing updates, expansions, and special events, these games are set to cement their legacy in the annals of Pokemon history.
Despite facing a challenging launch due to performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have demonstrated resilience, bolstered by regular updates and engaging events. The excitement surrounding the games remains high, with a 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza scheduled from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
For more details on how to participate in the event and the best strategies to capture this majestic dragon, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide below!
