Pokémon SV Breaks 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 historic achievement and the ongoing success 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 impressive domestic sales of 8.3 million units, according to Famitsu. This remarkable achievement 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 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 led to initial criticisms regarding technical performance, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues, the games' popularity proved unstoppable.

Within their first three days, they sold over 10 million copies globally, with a staggering 4.05 million from Japan alone. This phenomenal launch shattered numerous records, including the best launch for a Nintendo Switch game and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan (as reported by The Pokemon Company in 2022).

Released in 1996, the original Pokemon Red and Green introduced the world to the Kanto region and its 151 Pokemon, igniting 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 undeniable. With potential for further sales on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 (given its backward compatibility), coupled with continuous updates, expansions, and engaging events, these games are set to become a cornerstone of Pokemon history.

Despite a challenging launch, consistent updates and events have fueled Scarlet and Violet's continued success. A highly anticipated 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza, running from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025, further demonstrates the game's ongoing engagement with players. For detailed event information and capture strategies, consult our comprehensive guide!