"Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Outsell Original Games in Japan"

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have soared to new heights, officially eclipsing Pokemon Red and Green to claim the title of best-selling Pokemon games in Japan! Dive into the details of this monumental achievement and explore the ongoing triumphs of the Pokemon franchise.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Break Sales Records in Japan

Gen 1 Pokemon Games Dethroned by Scarlet and Violet

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have shattered sales records, becoming the best-selling Pokemon titles in Japan's history. With an impressive 8.3 million units sold domestically, as reported by Famitsu, these games have ended the 28-year reign of the original Red and Green (known as Red and Blue internationally).

Launched in 2022, Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution for the franchise by introducing the first fully open-world experience in the series. Players could now freely roam the vast Paldea region, a departure from the more structured paths of previous games. Despite some initial technical challenges, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues, the games were met with overwhelming demand.

In just their first three days on the market, Scarlet and Violet sold over 10 million copies worldwide, with 4.05 million of those sales coming from Japan. This launch not only set a new record for the best debut of any Nintendo Switch game but also became the top launch for any Nintendo title in Japan, according to The Pokemon Company's 2022 press release.

The iconic Pokemon Red and Green, released in Japan in 1996, introduced the world to the enchanting Kanto region and its 151 beloved Pokemon. These games sparked a global phenomenon that continues to thrive. As of March 2024, Pokemon Red, Blue, and Green maintain the record for the highest worldwide Pokemon sales, totaling 31.38 million units. Pokemon Sword and Shield follow closely with 26.27 million units sold, while Scarlet and Violet are rapidly gaining ground, with 24.92 million units sold.

As Pokemon Scarlet and Violet continue to approach global sales records, their lasting impact is clear. With the potential for further sales on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, along with ongoing updates, expansions, and events, these games are set to cement their legacy in the annals of Pokemon history.

Despite a challenging start marked by performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have shown remarkable resilience, bolstered by continuous updates and engaging events. The game's popularity is on the rise, highlighted by the upcoming 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 this exciting event and tips on capturing the majestic Shiny Rayquaza, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide below!