Japan is home to some of the most influential and successful video game franchises in the world. These franchises have shaped the global gaming industry, with millions of copies sold and legions of dedicated fans. From iconic role-playing games (RPGs) to action-packed adventures, Japanese game developers have consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity, gameplay, and storytelling. Here’s a look at the most successful Japanese game franchises of all time, based on their impact, sales, and overall influence in the gaming world.
1. Pokémon
Developer: Game Freak
Total Sales: Over 400 million copies
Pokémon is not only the most successful Japanese game franchise but also one of the most recognizable global brands. Since its debut in 1996, Pokémon has become a cultural phenomenon, with games, television shows, movies, trading cards, and even theme parks. The franchise centers around players capturing and training creatures called Pokémon, which are used in turn-based battles. The mainline series, starting with Pokémon Red and Blue, has expanded into a variety of spin-offs, mobile games like Pokémon Go, and remakes.
The game’s success is largely due to its addictive gameplay loop, appealing creatures, and accessibility for all ages. Pokémon’s continued innovation, such as the introduction of new generations of Pokémon, has kept it fresh and relevant over the years, securing its position as a cornerstone of Japanese game franchises.
2. Super Mario
Developer: Nintendo
Total Sales: Over 380 million copies
Super Mario, created by Shigeru Miyamoto, is the face of Nintendo and one of the most influential franchises in the gaming industry. Debuting in 1985 with Super Mario Bros., the franchise introduced players to the world of platforming, a genre that has remained a staple of gaming. Mario, the Italian plumber who jumps through colorful worlds, is one of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
Over the decades, Super Mario has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and even 3D entries, with Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Odyssey being notable examples of groundbreaking 3D platforming. The series has expanded beyond traditional games, with the introduction of kart racing (Mario Kart), sports games (Mario Tennis, Mario Golf), and party games (Mario Party). Mario’s legacy in both the platforming genre and in the broader gaming culture is unmatched.
3. The Legend of Zelda
Developer: Nintendo
Total Sales: Over 135 million copies
Another Nintendo powerhouse, The Legend of Zelda is an action-adventure franchise known for its intricate puzzles, vast exploration, and epic storylines. First released in 1986, the franchise follows the hero, Link, as he attempts to rescue Princess Zelda and battle the evil Ganon to save the kingdom of Hyrule. The Legend of Zelda is renowned for its open-world exploration, dungeon puzzles, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild have received universal acclaim for their world-building, design, and storytelling, solidifying the series as one of the most critically celebrated franchises in gaming. The series has evolved with each installment, from the original 2D top-down perspective to the groundbreaking 3D exploration of Breath of the Wild, which set new standards for open-world games.
4. Final Fantasy
Developer: Square Enix
Total Sales: Over 175 million copies
Final Fantasy is one of the most iconic RPG franchises in the world, known for its epic storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and expansive worlds. Created by Hironobu Sakaguchi, Final Fantasy made its debut in 1987, and it was intended to be Square’s last project before bankruptcy. Fortunately, the game’s success helped launch a multi-decade legacy.
Each installment in the Final Fantasy series features a new world and characters, though some elements like summons, crystals, and chocobos have remained consistent. Final Fantasy VII is widely considered one of the greatest games of all time, bringing the franchise to the mainstream with its compelling story, complex characters, and cinematic presentation. With recent releases like Final Fantasy XV and the ongoing development of Final Fantasy XVI, the franchise continues to innovate while staying true to its RPG roots.
5. Dragon Quest
Developer: Square Enix
Total Sales: Over 85 million copies
Dragon Quest, also known as Dragon Warrior in North America, is one of Japan’s oldest and most beloved RPG franchises. Debuting in 1986, it helped establish the standard for turn-based RPGs. The series was created by Yuji Horii and features a classic fantasy world filled with monsters, heroes, and epic quests.
While Dragon Quest is not as globally popular as Final Fantasy, it has remained a cultural staple in Japan, where new releases are often met with fanfare. The franchise’s charming art style, created by Akira Toriyama (best known for Dragon Ball), and its traditional gameplay mechanics have made it a beloved series for both casual and hardcore RPG fans. Dragon Quest XI was particularly well-received for its expansive world and nostalgic gameplay, proving the series’ longevity.
6. Monster Hunter
Developer: Capcom
Total Sales: Over 90 million copies
Monster Hunter is one of Japan’s most successful action RPG franchises, with a dedicated fanbase worldwide. First released in 2004, the game centers around players hunting giant monsters in various environments. The series is known for its challenging combat, cooperative multiplayer, and extensive weapon crafting systems.
The franchise reached new heights with Monster Hunter: World, which brought the series to a global audience and introduced innovative features such as seamless environments and a more accessible gameplay loop. Monster Hunter Rise continued this trend, offering an exciting blend of new mechanics and traditional monster-hunting action. The series’ success has also led to anime adaptations and a Hollywood movie, further cementing its place in gaming culture.
7. Street Fighter
Developer: Capcom
Total Sales: Over 46 million copies
As one of the pioneers of the fighting game genre, Street Fighter has played a significant role in shaping competitive gaming. Released in 1987, the franchise introduced players to iconic characters like Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li, and its intricate gameplay mechanics became a template for future fighting games.
Street Fighter II, released in 1991, is often cited as one of the greatest video games of all time, revolutionizing the fighting game genre and spawning numerous sequels and spin-offs. Street Fighter V continues to dominate esports competitions, and the upcoming Street Fighter 6 is expected to push the series forward with even more refined mechanics and visuals.
8. Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer: Sega
Total Sales: Over 140 million copies
Sega’s mascot, Sonic the Hedgehog, was created in 1991 to compete with Nintendo’s Mario. The franchise quickly became a hit with its fast-paced platforming and memorable characters. While the Sonic series has seen its ups and downs over the years, its place in gaming history is undeniable.
The franchise’s early years, particularly with titles like Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic CD, are considered some of the best platformers ever made. Though more recent entries like Sonic Forces have been divisive, the release of Sonic Mania in 2017, a return to the series’ 2D roots, was widely praised and revitalized interest in the franchise. Sonic’s enduring popularity is also reflected in his presence in multiple media forms, including TV shows, movies, and comics.
9. Resident Evil
Developer: Capcom
Total Sales: Over 130 million copies
Known for popularizing the survival horror genre, Resident Evil has become one of the most successful and influential franchises in gaming history. First released in 1996, Resident Evil follows protagonists as they attempt to survive deadly outbreaks caused by biological weapons.
The series is credited with popularizing fixed camera angles, tense atmosphere, and puzzles in its early entries, while later games, such as Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 7, revolutionized the series with third-person action and first-person perspectives, respectively. The franchise has also expanded into films, novels, and spin-offs, solidifying its place as a key player in the gaming industry.
10. Yakuza
Developer: Sega
Total Sales: Over 15 million copies
The Yakuza series, also known as Ryū ga Gotoku in Japan, follows the life of Kazuma Kiryu, a former member of the Japanese Yakuza. Released in 2005, Yakuza blends action, exploration, and storytelling with an open-world setting, allowing players to explore the streets of fictional Japanese cities.
Though it was initially a cult hit, the Yakuza series gained mainstream popularity in the West with the release of Yakuza 0 and Yakuza 5. The franchise is celebrated for its deep narrative, engaging side content, and dynamic combat. With new titles like Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the series continues to innovate and attract new fans while keeping its loyal base engaged.
Conclusion
Japanese game franchises have not only shaped the gaming landscape but have also become ingrained in popular culture worldwide. From the adventures of Mario and Link to the monster-hunting in Monster Hunter and the survival horror of Resident Evil, these franchises have offered a variety of gaming experiences that continue to captivate millions of players. Their longevity and innovation ensure that they will remain major players in the gaming world for years to come.