In an astounding turn of events, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have soared to new heights, eclipsing the legendary sales record set by the original Pokemon Red and Green in Japan. This monumental achievement marks a historic milestone in the ever-evolving saga of the Pokemon franchise.

Gen 1 Pokemon Games Dethroned by Scarlet and Violet

The latest entries in the series, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, have not only captivated fans but also set new benchmarks by selling a staggering 8.3 million units in Japan alone, as per the latest data from Famitsu. This impressive figure has toppled the 28-year reign of the iconic Red and Green (known as Red and Blue internationally), cementing Scarlet and Violet's status as the best-selling Pokemon games in Japan's history.

Launched in 2022, these games introduced a revolutionary open-world experience, allowing players to explore the vast Paldea region freely—a departure from the linear gameplay of previous titles. Despite facing some technical challenges at launch, including graphical glitches and frame rate issues, the games' innovative approach and the allure of new adventures propelled them to unprecedented success.

In their first three days on the market, Scarlet and Violet achieved global sales of over 10 million copies, with 4.05 million units sold in Japan alone. This launch set several records, including the best debut for a Nintendo Switch game and the most successful launch of any Nintendo title in Japan, according to The Pokemon Company's 2022 press release.

Reflecting on the legacy of the original games, Pokemon Red and Green, released in Japan in 1996, introduced players to the enchanting Kanto region and its 151 iconic Pokemon. These games sparked a global phenomenon that has endured for decades. As of March 2024, Red, Blue, and Green hold the record for the highest worldwide Pokemon sales at 31.38 million units, closely followed by Pokemon Sword and Shield with 26.27 million units. Meanwhile, Scarlet and Violet are hot on their heels, having sold 24.92 million units globally.

The remarkable success of Scarlet and Violet not only underscores their enduring appeal but also sets the stage for future growth. With the potential for increased sales on the backward-compatible Nintendo Switch 2, and with ongoing updates, expansions, and exciting events, these games are poised to further solidify their place in Pokemon history.

Despite a challenging start due to performance issues, Scarlet and Violet have continued to thrive, bolstered by regular updates and engaging events. The excitement around the franchise remains high, with a special 5-Star Tera Raid Event featuring a Shiny Rayquaza scheduled from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025. For those eager to capture this majestic dragon, be sure to check out our detailed guide below!