Featured Image Credit: Nintendo, The Pokémon Company
Despite its completely new take on the franchise, Pokémon Legends: Arceus had one of the best launches for any Pokémon game in the UK. Based on physical sales data, it is now the fourth biggest launch for any Pokémon game.
Looking at the list, though, it seems that becoming the best-selling does not equal critically acclaimed. Despite having the best UK launch for the monster collecting franchise, Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon disappointed fans with its changes to the classic gameplay formula. This possibly explains why the sequel and supposed upgrade, Pokémon Ultra Sun and Pokémon Ultra Moon, failed to make the top ten.
Haven't had the chance to check out the latest Pokémon game yet? Check out our video below on the new forms for the three starters.
It should also be noted that most games in the top ten are listed as the pairs they released in. As Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a single release title, it is probable that it sold better than other individual titles. The only other single title to break the top ten was Pokémon Yellow from the first generation of the series.
The top ten best sellers are as follows:
1. Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon (2016, seventh generation)
2. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield (2019, eighth and current generation)
3. Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire (2014, remakes of the third generation)
4. Pokémon Legends: Arceus (2022, new series)
5. Pokémon Black and Pokémon White (2010, fifth generation)
6. Pokémon Shining Pearl and Pokémon Brilliant Diamond (2021, remakes of the fourth generation)
7. Pokémon X and Pokémon Y (2013, sixth generation)
8. Pokémon Let's Go Pikachu and Pokémon Let's Go Eevee (2018, new series and remakes of the first generation)
9. Pokémon Yellow (1998, first generation)
10. Pokémon Heart Gold and Pokémon Soul Silver (2009, remakes of the second generation)
Reviews of the latest Pokémon game have been outstanding. In our review, James called it "excellent" and the "evolution the fans have been waiting for."
