One of 2021’s most anticipated video games was the release ofMetroid Dread, which reinvigorated interest in theMetroidfranchise that hasn’t seen a new mainline title in 14 years. When released last month,Metroid Dreadwas very well received, and some fans claim it’s the best game of the year. After the release, many fans of the video game called for others that were interested to purchase it as a way to support the development of futureMetroidgames.
It seems as though the call for support and the general popularity surrounding the Nintendo Switch helped as it was revealedMetroid Dreadhas the biggest launch of anyMetroidfranchise title. Previously reported in October,Metroid Dreadsales in the UK easily beat out previous record-holderMetroid Prime.Now it seems as thoughMetroid Dreadhas also broken records in the U.S.
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The tweet comes from Mat Piscatella, who is currently a member of the NPD Group. In his tweet, he shares howMetroid Dreadwas October’s 3rd best-selling video game while being 1st for sales on the Nintendo Switch. It was also shared thatMetroid Dreadis the highest launch month sales of anyMetroidgame in NPD’s tracked history. Launch month physical sales alone “nearly doubled” those ofMetroid Prime,which previously held the highest sales of the franchise.
It’s no surprise thatMetroid Dreadhas become such a juggernaut for theMetroidfranchise. Prior to the game’s release, it really felt as though the franchise was in limbo withno clear release date forMetroid Prime 4after having been announced years ago. Fans of the franchise were itching to return, andMetroid Dreadwas the perfect opportunity to do so.
On top of the popularity of the Nintendo Switch and the absence of a greatMetroidtitle, Nintendo also recentlyput out a demo forMetroid Dread. This certainly helped a bunch as those that were interested inMetroid Dreadbut unsure if they were willing to invest $60, were now given an opportunity to try the game for free.
These sales are about a month after the release ofMetroid Dreadand if the consistent sales in titles such asBreath of the WildorMario Kart 8show anything, it’s that quality Nintendo games typically have legs, and it’s quite likelyMetroid Dreadwill continue to sell copies.
Metroid Dreadis available now for Nintendo Switch.
MORE:Metroid Dread’s Success Doesn’t Mean That Prime 4 is Out of the Woods
