Two of the biggest markets in the gaming industry all mostly focus around a small amount of massive franchises. These series have many main installments combined with off shoots that make up a giant number of sales, especially in the international market.
Though so much is different in both nations cultures some games just can't be denied. On the other hand, certain titles top the charts in one place and remain relatively middle of the road in the other. Whatever side they fall on these series have sold a massive number of units and for good reason. These series contain some of the best rated games of all time and span decades in production.
10 Japan: Kingdom Hearts
Kingdom Hearts has been a mainstay since it's the first release in 2002. Taking the iconic characters of Disney and blending them with anime designed characters and storyline.
It was the bridge of familiarity that they crossed causing the phenomena that Kingdom Hearts have now become. It also opened up the door to relive our favourite Disney characters while putting them in fresh and interesting situations.
9 North America: Call Of Duty
The Call Of Duty Series wasn't always as big of a powerhouse as it has grown to be. Starting in 2003 and relying on a WWII based storyline, Call Of Duty came out of its shell and started taking over the charts in 2007 when they brought out Modern Warfare.
The confined map sizes make for intense matches that rely heavily on strategy and reaction time. Mass amounts of customizable weapons and gear provide hours of content along with a highly competitive online scene. North America's inclination towards First Person Shooters launched Call of Duty through the roof.
8 Japan: Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy is in the senior club on the list, being first released in 1987. Not many games reach such a ripe old age but it's easy to tell why when you play the game. Even the older games still bring a sense of immersion and adventure that is hard to find in today's gaming climate.
it's always been unique in that you focus on a group of characters rather than a singular hero. While this isn't a new idea nowadays, back then they were somewhat of a pioneer.
7 North America: GTA
The game, the myth, the legend. GTA has done just about everything you can do in gaming. They've offended, been in controversies and been celebrated over their 22-year run. Taking the open world concept and getting rid of the rules, this game has become an icon.
With 5 main titles being released in that long run, the proof is in the pudding as to its replay value. When the online scene grew, GTA online has catapulted to one of the most intricate systems with a whole literal city of content for you to explore.
6 Japan: Dragon Quest
Another senior citizen going all the way back to 1986, the Japanese RPG has captured the imagination of many, being one of the front runners for a whole genre. Many generations have passed through the series and remain fans to this day.
Players that love turn-based combat will find their home in the world of Dragon Quest. Slowly sinking into the storyline along the way, the fanbase has taken a minor hit due to it only being released by Nintendo outside of Japan. The loyal Japanese fanbase has remained true and continues to support the series to this day.
5 North America: Minecraft
Minecraft started its up and down graph in 2011, starting as a small sandbox game that took a lot of the intensity out of the usual gaming experience. Letting you actually relax and gather resources instead of being forced into a battle for your life.
It also lets you explore your creativity by building anything your heart desires. Crafting weapons and materials for houses in the name of most of the game. There's a survival mode that turns it into a one-life survival game and really opens up the limits to the game.
4 Japan: Monster Hunter
Since 2004, Monster Hunter has been attracting players with its incredible roster of monsters to catch. Mining materials to upgrade or create hunting weapons builds your confidence to take on the massive beasts roaming the world.
The variety of landscapes and environments you can explore while on the hunt gives Monster Hunter a very satisfying grind. Gradually you'll reach master hunter and be able to take down the big boys. The constant stream of new content keeps the player base very healthy, especially in its home country Japan.
3 North America: Assassins Creed
Not only a game of action-packed stealth, but Assassins Creed also takes you through some of the most important places in history. From Renaissance Italy to Ancient Egypt, the player will live through stories where you will be taking out high ranking members of power systems.
Implementing all-new features such as blending in with crowds and the famous climbing that will be a player's primary transport system. With a huge amount of side missions and collectible content, Assassins Creed campaigns have players entertained for many hours.
2 Japan: Mario Bros.
This series really needs no introduction. The Mario universe started the massive rise in video game popularity and has ridden that wave all the way to today. The entire platformer genre came up with Mario and has since taken a sharp decline, but Mario stays strong worldwide.
From platformer to open-world game series Mario is a tree with many branches. Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros., and many sports games have spawned as a result and most have had mass success. North America or Japan, Mario remains king.
1 North America: Sonic The Hedgehog
1991 was the beginning of what Sega hoped would be the Mario vs Sonic rivalry. Back when platformers ruled all, Sonic managed to rise up and give the plumber a run for his money.
Sporting some of the most highly rated games of all time, Sonic is down as one of the legendary icons of gaming. Many players have spent days speeding through levels and collecting the rings.