Nintendo has confirmed that sales of Splatoon 3 for the Nintendo Switch have surpassed 3.45 million units in the first three days since launch within Japan. This number, which includes both packaged and downloadable copies of the game, is reportedly the highest domestic sales of any Nintendo Switch game within its first three days of availability.

The game launched globally on September 9, 2022.

This is a remarkable feat considering Splatoon is a relatively new franchise from Nintendo, and much more recent than longtime staples Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Kirby, and many more.

This statistic also means that it has sold more copies at a quicker rate than previous mega hits Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing New Horizons, Super Mario Odyssey, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

Splatoon is a competitive third-person shooter franchise which made its debut on the Wii U console in May 2015. A sequel, Splatoon 2, arrived early in the Switch’s lifespan on July 21, 2017.

The franchise is notable as being a major part of the Esports scene and giving Nintendo a significant presence at sponsored tournaments.

It remains to be seen, but this is a great indication that Splatoon 3 may surpass the 13.30 million unit sales of its predecessor sooner rather than later.

What are your thoughts on this milestone? Does it come as a shock to you, or did you expect Splatoon 3 to be a massive success in its native country? Sound off in the comments below, and on our Facebook page and official Discord server!

Source: Nintendo