Nintendo Reveals Top 30 Most Downloaded Games on Japanese eShop

The Rise of Suika Game

Nintendo has recently unveiled the 30 most-sold games in the Japanese eShop, and to the surprise of many, Suika Game has claimed the top spot. This may raise eyebrows, especially considering the monumental success of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which sold over 19.5 million units in just a year.

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Suika Game, also known as Watermelon Game, has become a streaming sensation since its release on the eShop in September. Originally developed by Aladdin X for the company's digital projectors in 2021, the game failed to gain widespread attention at that time. However, its fortunes changed dramatically after its launch on the Nintendo Switch. The title gained significant traction through streams by popular figures such as Sykkuno, QTCinderella, and Japanese TV celebrity Shingo Katori, propelling it into the spotlight.

Suika Game is a Tetris-inspired puzzle game that requires players to strategically drop fruits on top of each other, with the objective of combining similar fruits to create larger ones and score more points. Its sudden surge in popularity has led to its unprecedented success on the eShop, claiming the top spot in Nintendo's official list of most downloaded games in Japan.

Top 30 Most Downloaded Games

The top 30 most downloaded games on the Nintendo eShop in Japan are an interesting mix of new and old titles. Suika Game sits at the top, followed by familiar names such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Pikmin 4, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Notable entries include Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince and the enduring success of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which holds the 12th spot despite its 2017 release.

Surprisingly, long-standing titles such as Pikmin 1 and 2 also make an appearance on the list, highlighting their enduring appeal despite being around 20 years old. It's important to note that the list only includes digital purchases, providing insight into the evolving preferences of Japanese gamers and the continued relevance of classic titles in the digital age.

Impact of the eShop Changes

The closure of the 3DS and Wii U eShops in March 2023 marked a significant shift for Nintendo's digital storefront. This event had a profound impact on the availability of older titles, leaving many gamers saddened by the loss of access to thousands of games. Collectors and enthusiasts rushed to make final purchases before the shutdown, emphasizing the sentimental value and attachment to these classic titles.