Pokémon Scarlet/Violet Shatters Sales Records in Japan

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Conquer Japan's Best-Selling Pokemon Title

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have achieved a monumental feat, surpassing the legendary Pokemon Red and Green to claim the top spot as the best-selling Pokemon games in Japan! This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for the franchise.

Gen 1's Reign Ends After 28 Years

Famitsu reports that Scarlet and Violet have sold an impressive 8.3 million units domestically, ending the 28-year reign of the original Red and Green (known internationally as Red and Blue). The 2022 release of Scarlet and Violet marked a significant departure for the series, introducing a fully open-world experience in the Paldea region. While the ambitious open-world design faced initial criticism due to technical issues at launch, the games' popularity proved undeniable.

The games' initial global sales of over 10 million units within three days, with 4.05 million from Japan alone, shattered records, including the best launch for a Nintendo Switch game and the best debut for any Nintendo title in Japan.

Released in 1996, Pokemon Red and Green introduced the world to the Kanto region and its iconic 151 Pokemon, sparking a global phenomenon. As of March 2024, the combined sales of Red, Blue, and Green still hold the worldwide record with 31.38 million units sold, closely followed by Pokemon Sword and Shield at 26.27 million. Scarlet and Violet are rapidly catching up, with 24.92 million units sold.

A Lasting Legacy

Despite a challenging launch, consistent updates and events have fueled the continued success of Scarlet and Violet. Their popularity shows no signs of slowing down, with a 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza scheduled from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025. The potential for increased sales on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, along with ongoing support, further cements their place in Pokemon history.

For details on the Rayquaza event and capture strategies, consult our comprehensive guide!