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 remarkable feat, surpassing the iconic Pokemon Red and Green to claim the title of best-selling Pokemon games in Japan! This article delves into this momentous achievement and the ongoing triumph of the Pokemon franchise.

A New Era for Pokemon in Japan

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have officially dethroned the original Pokemon Red and Green (known internationally as Red and Blue), ending their 28-year reign at the top of the Japanese sales charts. Famitsu reports a staggering 8.3 million units sold domestically.

Released in 2022, Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution for the series, introducing the first truly open-world experience. Players could explore the Paldea region freely, a departure from the linear structure of previous games. While the ambitious open world design led to initial criticisms regarding technical performance, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues, the games' popularity proved undeniable.

Within their first three days, over 10 million copies were sold globally, with a remarkable 4.05 million from Japan alone. This phenomenal launch shattered records, becoming the best-selling Nintendo Switch game launch and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan, as announced by The Pokemon Company in 2022.

The original Pokemon Red and Green, released in 1996, introduced the world to the Kanto region and its 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, closely followed by Pokemon Sword and Shield with 26.27 million. However, Scarlet and Violet are rapidly catching up, with 24.92 million units sold.

With global sales nearing record-breaking numbers, the enduring appeal of Scarlet and Violet is clear. The potential for further sales on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, along with continued updates, expansions, and events, ensures these games will hold a significant place in Pokemon history.

Despite a challenging launch, consistent updates and engaging events have fueled Scarlet and Violet's continued success. A 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza, scheduled from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025, further exemplifies this commitment to player engagement.

For detailed information on the event and capturing this legendary Pokemon, consult our comprehensive guide!