Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Shatters Japanese Sales Records

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 become the top-selling Pokemon games in Japan's history. This monumental achievement, reported by Famitsu, marks the end of Red and Green's 28-year reign, with Scarlet and Violet boasting impressive domestic sales of 8.3 million units.

The 2022 release of Scarlet and Violet marked a significant shift for the franchise, introducing the series' first fully open-world experience. Players could explore the Paldea region with unprecedented freedom, a departure from the linear structure of previous titles. While ambitious, this open-world design wasn't without its challenges, with initial reports of technical issues, including graphical glitches and frame rate problems. Despite these early setbacks, the games proved incredibly popular.

Within their first three days, Scarlet and Violet sold over 10 million copies globally, with Japan alone contributing 4.05 million sales. This phenomenal launch shattered multiple records, including the best launch for a Nintendo Switch game and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan, as announced by The Pokemon Company in 2022.

Released in 1996, the original Pokemon Red and Green (known as Red and Blue internationally) introduced the world to the Kanto region and its 151 Pokemon, sparking a global phenomenon that continues to this day. As of March 2024, these games still hold the record for worldwide Pokemon sales, with a combined 31.38 million units sold. Pokemon Sword and Shield follow closely behind with 26.27 million units, while Scarlet and Violet are rapidly approaching with 24.92 million units sold.

The enduring popularity of Scarlet and Violet is undeniable. With the potential for further sales on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 (given its backward compatibility), along with ongoing updates, expansions, and in-game events, these titles are set to further cement their place in Pokemon history.

Despite the initial technical difficulties, Scarlet and Violet have thrived, largely due to consistent updates and engaging events. The current 5-Star Tera Raid Event, featuring a Shiny Rayquaza, running from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025, is a testament to the game's ongoing appeal. For details on this event and strategies for capturing Rayquaza, check out our comprehensive guide!