Despite facing significant backlash from fans, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have cemented their place as some of the most successful entries in the franchise's history. These games have managed to surpass sales figures of previous titles, showcasing the enduring appeal of the Pokémon universe. With over 26 million copies sold collectively, Scarlet and Violet have outperformed every other Pokémon launch since the original Game Boy iteration. Although concerns about technical shortcomings have surfaced, the games' popularity speaks volumes about the series' impact on gaming culture.

The transition into the Switch era has marked a new chapter for Pokémon, characterized by both unprecedented success and fan dissatisfaction. While these titles have set records for sales, they have also been scrutinized for perceived drops in quality compared to earlier installments like Legends: Arceus. At the time of their release in late 2022, experts highlighted numerous issues ranging from graphical glitches to performance problems. Nintendo acknowledged these criticisms publicly, pledging to address player feedback seriously and enhance future updates. Despite these challenges, the initial sales momentum was extraordinary, with 10 million units sold within just three days.

Looking forward, the Pokémon franchise continues to innovate and adapt to evolving technology. Upcoming projects such as Pokémon Legends: ZA promise exciting gameplay centered around a singular urban environment, likely benefiting from the enhanced capabilities of the upcoming Switch 2 console. As the series approaches its 30th anniversary in 2026, anticipation builds for what might be the tenth generation of games, potentially exclusive to the newer hardware. This trajectory highlights not only the resilience but also the forward-thinking nature of one of gaming's most iconic franchises, proving that even amidst criticism, innovation and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements.