Nintendo Switch 2's Mario Kart World outsells Zelda: BOTW in Japan

Nintendo's Mario Kart World has achieved staggering retail success in Japan, selling four times more physical copies during its first three days than The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild managed during the original Switch's launch.

Record-Breaking Launch Performance

According to Famitsu sales data, Mario Kart World sold an impressive 782,566 physical copies in Japan between June 2-8, instantly becoming the country's top-selling game. These figures exclude digital downloads from Nintendo's online store, suggesting actual sales are substantially higher.

By comparison, Breath of the Wild moved approximately 193,060 physical units during its first three days with the original Nintendo Switch launch in 2017. This stark difference highlights the stronger market position of Nintendo's new console generation.

Hardware Momentum Driving Software Sales

The Switch 2's unprecedented launch performance - becoming Nintendo's fastest-selling console with 3.5 million global units sold in four days - creates ideal conditions for accessory game sales. The new system is currently outselling its predecessor at a 2:1 ratio, a significant improvement over the Switch 1's 2.74 million unit sales in its first month.

Switch 2 titles dominated Japanese retail charts, claiming five of the top ten spots:

• Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma (No. 6)
• Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (No. 7)
• Zelda: Breath of the Wild (No. 8)
• Yakuza 0 (No. 9)

Mario Kart World Gallery

Long-Term Sales Outlook

While Mario Kart World's explosive start surpasses Breath of the Wild's initial performance, Nintendo's Zelda title eventually became one of the best-selling Switch games with over 30 million copies sold. The recent Switch 2 HD re-release may further extend its sales lifespan.

For players diving into Mario Kart World, we've compiled essential guides covering:

• Unlocking all hidden characters
• Kamek's special unlock system
• Locating all food items across the open world
• Permanently acquiring all outfits and costumes