Pokemon Scarlet and Violet is the Series’ Second Biggest Launch in the UK

Even with criticism of its performance and other issues, Game Freak’s Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are a massive hit in the United Kingdom. According to Gfk (via GamesIndustry), it’s the biggest physical game release of the year, with launch week sales up four percent over previous record-holder FIFA 23. Not only that, but it’s the second biggest Pokemon launch ever (just behind Pokemon Sun and Moon).

Interestingly, due to being sold for £48, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet made more money than Sun and Moon (which sold for £35 at launch). Pokemon Violet accounted for 52 percent of sales. Scarlet made up 42 percent, and the double pack constituted the remaining six percent.

Compared to recent titles, first-week sales were up 36 percent over Pokemon Sword and Shield, 70 percent over Pokemon Diamond and Pearl, and 56 percent higher than Pokemon Legends: Arceus. If that weren’t enough, it also boosted Nintendo Switch sales by 62 percent week-on-week, making this the console’s biggest week in sales thus far.