Introduction
In the world of video games, not every release becomes a true event. However, the launch of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on May 12, 2023, was exactly that. The game not only continued Nintendo’s legendary franchise but also set new sales records, proving that the Zelda brand is stronger than ever.
Record-Breaking Sales in the First Days
Nintendo officially announced that within just three days after release, Tears of the Kingdom sold over 10 million copies worldwide. This achievement made it the fastest-selling game in the history of the Zelda franchise.
- United States: more than 4 million copies were sold, making it the fastest-selling Nintendo game ever in the region.
- Japan: over 2.24 million copies were sold in the first three days, with around half of them being physical cartridges for the Nintendo Switch.
- Global milestone: 10 million in three days — a number that highlights the game’s global appeal, as earlier Zelda titles needed months to reach similar results.
Why Is This Success So Unique?
1. The Biggest Launch in the Zelda Series
The previous title, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, was considered groundbreaking and highly successful. Yet even it could not match the launch speed of Tears of the Kingdom.
2. Proof of Nintendo’s Strong Brand
The Switch has been on the market since 2017, but demand for new releases remains strong. Zelda’s success proves that Nintendo exclusives can still attract massive audiences even in the later years of the console’s lifecycle.
3. Viral Buzz in the Media
Social media, streamers, and fans created a massive wave of attention around the game. Gameplay clips showing the building mechanics, exploration, and open-world features made Tears of the Kingdom one of the most discussed games of 2023.
What It Means for the Industry
The release of Tears of the Kingdom demonstrated that even long-running franchises can outperform themselves. These sales figures send a message not only to Nintendo but to the entire industry: players are eager for deep, creative, and adventure-driven experiences.
Conclusion
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has secured its place in history as the fastest-selling game in the franchise, reaching over 10 million copies in just three days. This is more than a successful launch — it’s proof that Zelda remains the gold standard for adventure games. And there’s no doubt this record will serve as a benchmark for future industry hits.
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