History's Best Selling Products of 2019

Hats off to 2019! Few items commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 and Redmi Note 7 Pro. Alongside sensationally popular hits like The Upside and Resident Evil 2, consumers eagerly embraced the Y2K fever and early digital revolution. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Xiaomi and Neil Burger set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 and Redmi Note 7 Pro

   Released in 2019 by Xiaomi

   On January 10, 2019, Xiaomi held a landmark event in Beijing that would reshape the budget smartphone market. This day marked not just the launch of a new phone, the Redmi Note 7, but the official debut of 'Redmi' as an independent sub-brand. This strategic move was designed to allow the main Xiaomi 'Mi' brand to pursue more premium segments, while Redmi would double down on its core mission: delivering an extreme price-to-performance ratio. The announcement of the Redmi Note 7 was the first powerful statement from this newly independent entity, showcasing a device with specifications, particularly its 48-megapixel camera, that were previously unheard of at its aggressive price point, instantly putting the competition on notice.

2. The Upside

   Released in 2019 by Neil Burger, Escape Artists, STXfilms

   On January 11, 2019, American audiences were introduced to the heartwarming and hilarious story of an unlikely friendship in "The Upside." The film, an American remake of the 2011 French blockbuster "The Intouchables," premiered in theaters across the United States on this day. Despite facing a long road to release and mixed critical reviews, its debut was a surprising and resounding commercial success. It opened at number one at the domestic box office, unseating the seemingly unstoppable "Aquaman" and demonstrating the immense star power of its leads, Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston, and the audience's appetite for feel-good, character-driven comedy-dramas.

3. Resident Evil 2

   Released in 2019 by Capcom, Capcom

   Resident Evil 2 (2019) wasn't just a remake; it was a masterclass in re-imagining a classic, instantly becoming a cultural phenomenon upon its release. Launched on January 25, 2019, it immediately captivated both long-time fans and a new generation of horror enthusiasts with its stunning modern graphics and refined gameplay. This title quickly ascended to become one of the bestselling games of the year, demonstrating Capcom's exceptional ability to breathe fresh, terrifying life into a beloved franchise. The game's blend of nostalgic elements with cutting-edge visual fidelity and mechanics created an immersive, dread-filled experience that resonated deeply, proving that survival horror, when executed with such meticulous care, could still dominate the gaming landscape and set new benchmarks for remakes in the industry.

4. Samsung Galaxy S10, Galaxy S10+ and Galaxy S10e

   Released in 2019 by Samsung

   On February 20, 2019, Samsung took the stage in San Francisco for its Unpacked event to reveal the future of its flagship smartphone line. This date marked a significant milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Galaxy S series. In a market dominated by notched displays popularized by Apple, Samsung aimed to deliver a truly immersive, uninterrupted screen experience. The announcement of the Galaxy S10 series wasn't just about a yearly update; it was a commemorative launch celebrating a decade of innovation, setting a new design standard with its punch-hole display and showcasing a suite of next-generation features intended to redefine the premium smartphone category for the year ahead.

5. How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

   Released in 2019 by Dean DeBlois, DreamWorks Animation

   On February 22, 2019, audiences flocked to theaters for the highly anticipated conclusion to one of animation's most beloved modern sagas: "How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World." The film's release marked the culmination of a nearly decade-long journey that began in 2010, following the evolving friendship between the young Viking Hiccup and his Night Fury dragon, Toothless. Fans who had grown up alongside the characters were eager to see how their story would end, creating a major cultural event for families and animation enthusiasts. The premiere was not just the release of another sequel, but the emotional farewell to a world and characters that had captured hearts worldwide.

6. Samsung Galaxy A30

   Released in 2019 by Samsung

   On February 25, 2019, just ahead of the official start of Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy A30 alongside the Galaxy A50. This announcement was a significant strategic maneuver, signaling a complete overhaul of the company's approach to the mid-range market. For years, Samsung had been losing ground to aggressive Chinese competitors. This date marked the beginning of its major counter-offensive. By launching the A30 with premium features like a Super AMOLED display and an ultra-wide camera at a competitive price, Samsung declared its intent to reclaim dominance in the crucial mid-tier segment, particularly in high-growth markets like India and Southeast Asia, setting a new, more aggressive tone for its entire mobile portfolio.

7. Samsung Galaxy A50

   Released in 2019 by Samsung

   On February 25, 2019, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy A50, fundamentally resetting its strategy for the competitive mid-range smartphone market. The announcement came just ahead of the official start of Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, a strategic move to capture headlines before the event's flurry of launches. This date marks a pivotal moment when Samsung signaled its intent to aggressively compete against challenger brands from China. By launching a device with premium, flagship-tier features at an accessible price point, Samsung used the A50 to declare that it would no longer cede the mid-range segment, setting a new standard for what consumers could expect from a non-premium device.

8. Captain Marvel

   Released in 2019 by Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

   The release of 'Captain Marvel' on February 27, 2019, marked a pivotal moment for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, ushering in its first standalone female-led superhero film. This date signifies its world premiere in London, setting the stage for its global theatrical run that quickly broke box office records and solidified its place as a commercial and cultural phenomenon. Audiences worldwide eagerly awaited Carol Danvers' origin story, a powerful addition to the MCU lexicon, particularly as it arrived just months before the climactic 'Avengers: Endgame.' The film's debut was not merely another blockbuster premiere; it was a statement on representation and empowerment, launching a new era of superhero storytelling with a groundbreaking lead.

9. Samsung Galaxy A10

   Released in 2019 by Samsung

   On February 28, 2019, Samsung officially unveiled the Galaxy A10, marking a pivotal moment in its mobile strategy. This announcement was not just about a new phone; it was the formal launch of a revamped and aggressive push into the budget smartphone sector. Facing intense competition from Chinese brands that were dominating the entry-level market, Samsung used this date to introduce a device designed to reclaim its position. The A10 was the vanguard of a new A-series, intended to bring premium features, like the large Infinity-V display, to a much more accessible price point. This launch signaled Samsung's commitment to fighting for every segment of the market, making this day historically significant for the company's competitive direction.

10. Samsung Galaxy A20

    Released in 2019 by Samsung

    On March 19, 2019, Samsung officially unveiled the Galaxy A20, initially for the Russian market before its wider global release. This date marked a crucial move in Samsung's revitalized strategy to dominate the budget and mid-range smartphone segments. The A20 wasn't launched at a grand unpacked event but was part of a rapid succession of A-series releases designed to saturate the market. The announcement was significant because it solidified Samsung's commitment to bringing premium features, such as Super AMOLED displays and large batteries, to a highly accessible price point. It was a direct and aggressive response to the growing pressure from Chinese competitors who had been eroding Samsung's market share with high-value offerings.

11. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

    Released in 2019 by FromSoftware, Activision

    Released on March 22, 2019, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice immediately captivated the gaming world, solidifying FromSoftware's reputation for crafting challenging yet immensely rewarding experiences. This action-adventure title, published by Activision, quickly became a cultural touchstone, drawing in millions with its unique blend of intense combat, rich historical fantasy setting, and a compelling narrative centered around the lone wolf, Sekiro. Its launch was met with widespread critical acclaim and immense commercial success, proving that a demanding difficulty curve could still translate into mass market appeal. Sekiro wasn't just another game; it was an event, sparking countless discussions, speedruns, and a renewed appreciation for precision-based combat systems.

12. Us

    Released in 2019 by Jordan Peele, Universal Pictures

    On March 22, 2019, writer-director Jordan Peele unleashed his second film, "Us," upon an eager public. The film arrived with immense expectations, as it was Peele's follow-up to his 2017 directorial debut, "Get Out," a cultural and critical phenomenon that won him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The release of "Us" was a major cinematic event, with audiences and critics desperate to see if Peele could once again merge thrilling horror with sharp social commentary. The film's premiere cemented Peele's status as a new master of the genre and proved his initial success was no fluke, but the arrival of a major cinematic voice.

13. Huawei P30 and P30 Pro

    Released in 2019 by Huawei

    On March 26, 2019, Huawei took the stage in Paris to unveil the P30 series, a launch that would represent both the zenith of its global smartphone ambitions and a turning point in its history. At the time, Huawei was aggressively challenging Samsung and Apple for the top spot in the market. The P series had already established a reputation for camera excellence through its partnership with Leica, and the Paris event was designed to showcase a monumental leap forward. The announcement of the P30 Pro, with its unprecedented periscope zoom camera, stunned the tech world and set a new benchmark for what a mobile phone camera could achieve, creating a halo product that defined the pinnacle of 2010s smartphone innovation.

14. Avengers: Endgame

    Released in 2019 by Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Marvel Studios

    On April 26, 2019, cinematic history was made with the worldwide release of "Avengers: Endgame." More than just a movie premiere, it was the culmination of an unprecedented 22-film narrative arc, the "Infinity Saga," that had been meticulously built by Marvel Studios over eleven years. The film's release was a global cultural event, with fans flocking to theaters in record numbers to witness the final showdown between Earth's mightiest heroes and the nihilistic villain Thanos. The stakes had never been higher, following the devastating cliffhanger of its predecessor, "Avengers: Infinity War," making "Endgame" the most anticipated film of its generation.

15. Chernobyl

    Released in 2019 by Craig Mazin, HBO, Sky Atlantic

    On May 6, 2019, HBO premiered the first episode of 'Chernobyl,' a five-part miniseries that would become a global television event. The date marked the beginning of a haunting and meticulously researched dramatization of the 1986 nuclear disaster. Arriving at a time of heightened global anxiety about truth, disinformation, and institutional competence, the series immediately struck a chord. Its debut was not merely the launch of a new show but the start of a cultural conversation about a real-world catastrophe, its staggering human cost, and the devastating consequences of a political system built on lies. The series premiere set the grim, intense tone that would define the show and captivate millions.

16. John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum

    Released in 2019 by Chad Stahelski, Thunder Road Pictures, 87Eleven Productions, Lionsgate

    On May 17, 2019, audiences were thrust back into the hyper-stylized world of the master assassin as 'John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum' exploded onto screens worldwide. Picking up mere moments after the conclusion of its predecessor, the film's release was a highly anticipated event for action movie fans. The John Wick franchise had already redefined modern action cinema with its intricate 'gun-fu' choreography and deep, fascinating world-building. This third installment promised to expand that world and push its titular character, played by the indefatigable Keanu Reeves, to his absolute physical and emotional limits, cementing the series as a blockbuster phenomenon.

17. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

    Released in 2019 by Quentin Tarantino, Columbia Pictures, Bona Film Group, Heyday Films, Visiona Romantica

    On July 26, 2019, Quentin Tarantino's ninth film, "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," received its wide theatrical release in the United States. The film arrived as one of the most anticipated cinematic events of the year, a sprawling, star-studded love letter to the final moments of Hollywood's golden age. Set in 1969 Los Angeles, the movie's release date was poignant, occurring just weeks before the 50th anniversary of the real-life Tate murders that serve as the story's grim backdrop. The film's premiere wasn't just a movie opening; it was a cultural event, inviting audiences to step into a meticulously recreated past and experience a bittersweet, and ultimately revisionist, fairytale from one of modern cinema's most distinctive voices.

18. Samsung Galaxy A10s

    Released in 2019 by Samsung

    On August 12, 2019, Samsung quietly updated its entry-level portfolio with the official announcement of the Galaxy A10s. This date didn't mark a grand, globally televised event, but rather a strategic press release signaling Samsung's aggressive push to dominate the budget smartphone sector. The A10s was an iterative refresh of the wildly successful Galaxy A10, launched just a few months prior. Its release was a direct response to the fast-moving trends in emerging markets, where features like dual cameras and fingerprint scanners were rapidly becoming standard. This announcement solidified Samsung's strategy of using the A-series to fight back against Chinese competitors by offering a trusted brand with an updated, competitive feature set.

19. Samsung Galaxy A30s

    Released in 2019 by Samsung

    On August 22, 2019, Samsung officially pulled the curtain back on the Galaxy A30s, a strategic mid-year refresh of its popular A30 model. This announcement wasn't a grand, standalone event but a calculated move within Samsung's broader 2019 strategy to reclaim dominance in the fiercely competitive mid-range smartphone market. The A30s debut represented Samsung's agile response to rapidly evolving consumer expectations, particularly from rivals who were introducing multi-camera systems and in-display sensors at lower price points. By launching the A30s, Samsung refreshed its portfolio for the second half of the year, ensuring its offerings remained compelling with an updated camera, a more modern biometric sensor, and a refreshed design, aiming to solidify its market share.

20. Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 and Redmi Note 8 Pro

    Released in 2019 by Xiaomi

    On August 29, 2019, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi held a launch event in its home country that would once again redefine the budget smartphone market. On this day, the company officially unveiled the Redmi Note 8 and its more powerful sibling, the Redmi Note 8 Pro. While the series continued the brand's legacy of offering incredible value, the Pro model made global headlines by being one of the world's first smartphones to feature a 64-megapixel camera sensor. This launch wasn't just another product release; it was a statement of intent, demonstrating that cutting-edge camera technology was no longer the exclusive domain of expensive flagship devices, setting a new benchmark for what consumers could expect from an affordable handset.

21. Fear Inoculum

    Released in 2019 by Tool, Tool Dissectional, Volcano Entertainment, RCA Records

    On August 30, 2019, one of modern music's longest and most speculated-upon waits came to an end. After a 13-year gap following their 2006 album "10,000 Days," progressive metal titans Tool released their fifth studio album, "Fear Inoculum." The release was a monumental event for rock and metal fans, who had followed years of rumors, delays, and online speculation. The album's arrival was not just a release; it was a cultural phenomenon, dominating music discourse and charts. It instantly validated the patience of their massive, devoted fanbase and reaffirmed the band's status as enigmatic and uncompromising artists in an industry that had drastically changed since their last outing.

22. It Chapter Two

    Released in 2019 by Andy Muschietti, New Line Cinema, Warner Bros. Pictures

    On September 6, 2019, audiences returned to the haunted town of Derry, Maine, for the highly anticipated theatrical release of "It Chapter Two." Serving as the epic conclusion to the two-part adaptation of Stephen King's monumental 1986 novel, the film arrived with immense expectations following the record-breaking success of its predecessor in 2017. Directed by Andy Muschietti, this date marked the culmination of a modern horror phenomenon, promising a final, terrifying confrontation between the adult members of the Losers' Club and the ancient, shape-shifting evil known as Pennywise the Dancing Clown. The release was a major cinematic event, dominating the box office and conversations around the globe.

23. Guts

    Released in 2019 by Raina Telgemeier, Scholastic Graphix

    Guts burst onto the literary scene in September 2019, instantly cementing Raina Telgemeier's status as a powerhouse in children's literature and graphic novels. Following the monumental successes of 'Smile' and 'Drama,' 'Guts' was met with immense anticipation, and it did not disappoint. The graphic novel quickly soared to the top of bestseller lists, becoming a cultural phenomenon for its honest and relatable portrayal of childhood anxiety and health worries. Its timely release tapped into a growing societal conversation around mental well-being, resonating deeply with young readers and their parents, making it one of the year's most talked-about and essential reads, marking a significant moment in the representation of mental health in youth media.

24. The Institute

    Released in 2019 by Stephen King, Scribner

    Stephen King's 'The Institute,' launched in September 2019, immediately commanded global attention, asserting its place as a dominant literary force in a year already brimming with significant releases. Its compelling narrative, which tapped into deep-seated fears about institutional power and the vulnerability of children, resonated profoundly with readers, rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about and fastest-selling novels of the year. The book’s arrival wasn't just a literary event; it became a cultural phenomenon, sparking widespread discussion about its timely themes and reaffirming King's unparalleled ability to blend suspenseful horror with poignant social commentary, drawing in both his loyal 'Constant Readers' and new audiences eager for a gripping story.

25. An Appeal to the Coloured Citizens of the World

    Released in 2019 by David Walker

    Released in 2019, David Walker's 'Appeal to the Coloured Citizens of the World' stands as one of the most incendiary and significant abolitionist texts in American history. Published at a time when the slavery debate was intensifying, but few openly advocated for immediate emancipation or Black empowerment through direct action, Walker's pamphlet shattered conventional discourse. Its publication sent shockwaves through both free and enslaved communities, acting as a clarion call for Black liberation and self-defense, while simultaneously striking terror into the hearts of Southern slaveholders who perceived it as an instigation for widespread rebellion. This document profoundly impacted the trajectory of the abolitionist movement, pushing it towards more radical stances.

26. Huawei Mate 30 and Mate 30 Pro

    Released in 2019 by Huawei

    On September 19, 2019, the tech world's attention was fixed on Munich, Germany, where Huawei unveiled its Mate 30 and Mate 30 Pro smartphones. This was no ordinary product launch; it was a pivotal moment for the company, representing its first flagship release after being placed on the United States' "Entity List" in May of that year. This political move effectively banned American companies, including Google, from doing business with Huawei. Consequently, the Mate 30 series was launched without Google Mobile Services (GMS), the suite of apps and APIs considered essential for Android devices outside of China. The event showcased some of the most advanced mobile hardware of its time, but it was overshadowed by this critical software omission, turning the launch into a high-stakes test of Huawei's resilience and the viability of its own budding ecosystem.

27. Mega Drive/Genesis Mini

    Released in 2019 by Sega

    On September 19, 2019, Sega officially entered the retro 'mini console' craze with the worldwide release of the Sega Mega Drive Mini (or Genesis Mini in North America). This date marked a significant moment for Sega fans, who had long awaited a high-quality, official celebration of the company's 16-bit legacy. After years of subpar licensed plug-and-play systems from other manufacturers, the Mini represented Sega taking direct control of its heritage. Its launch was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, instantly validating the company's decision to partner with renowned emulation experts M2 and proving that nostalgia, when handled with care and quality, was a powerful force in the modern gaming market.

28. Xiaomi Redmi 8A

    Released in 2019 by Xiaomi

    On September 25, 2019, Xiaomi continued its dominance in the entry-level smartphone market with the official announcement of the Redmi 8A. This date heralded the arrival of a device engineered to democratize premium features, notably a massive battery and modern USB-C charging, for an exceptionally low price point. The launch was a calculated strategic maneuver to fortify Xiaomi's stronghold in crucial developing markets like India, where the Redmi A-series had consistently performed as a major volume driver. Unveiled at a time when consumer expectations for budget devices were rising, the Redmi 8A was marketed as the 'Smart Desh Ka Dumdaar Smartphone' (The Powerful Smartphone for the Smart Nation), directly tackling the demand for durability, long battery life, and modern conveniences without a hefty price tag.

29. Joker

    Released in 2019 by Todd Phillips, Warner Bros. Pictures

    On October 4, 2019, movie theaters worldwide opened their doors to "Joker," a film that would become one of the most talked-about and divisive releases of the decade. Directed by Todd Phillips, the film arrived amidst a storm of controversy and anticipation, offering a gritty, realistic, and deeply unsettling origin story for Batman's most famous nemesis. Its release was a cultural flashpoint, sparking intense debates about its portrayal of mental illness, violence, and societal neglect. "Joker" was not just another comic book movie; it was a character-driven psychological thriller that challenged audiences and redefined the potential of the genre, proving that superhero-adjacent stories could be vehicles for serious, Oscar-worthy drama.

30. Xiaomi Redmi 8

    Released in 2019 by Xiaomi

    On October 9, 2019, Xiaomi officially unveiled the Redmi 8, a device poised to continue the brand's dominance in the budget smartphone sector. The announcement, particularly significant for the Indian market, showcased a successor to the popular Redmi 7 that doubled down on the company's core philosophy: delivering high-end features at an entry-level price. This launch was a strategic move to fend off growing competition from rivals like Realme. By revealing a phone with a massive battery, modern USB-C port, and an updated design, Xiaomi aimed to set a new benchmark for what consumers could expect from an affordable handset, reinforcing its status as the value-for-money champion.

31. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

    Released in 2019 by Charlie Mackesy, Ebury Press

    Released in late 2019, Charlie Mackesy's 'The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse' exploded into a global phenomenon in 2019, becoming a beacon of comfort during unprecedented times. Its gentle wisdom and poignant illustrations captivated millions, establishing it as more than just a book, but a cultural touchstone offering solace and connection. Amidst a world grappling with uncertainty, this beautifully crafted narrative emerged as a much-needed reminder of kindness, vulnerability, and the enduring power of friendship, making it an unexpected yet profound literary sensation. Its timely arrival resonated deeply with an audience seeking hope.

32. Watchmen

    Released in 2019 by Damon Lindelof, HBO

    On October 20, 2019, HBO premiered 'Watchmen,' a series carrying the immense weight of its revered source material, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons's iconic graphic novel. The debut was highly anticipated, not only by comic book fans but also by television enthusiasts drawn to the project by creator Damon Lindelof, known for his work on 'Lost' and 'The Leftovers.' Premiering in a politically charged American landscape, the show immediately signaled its bold intent by centering its narrative on the long-suppressed history of the 1921 Tulsa race massacre. This date marked the beginning of a nine-week run that would challenge, provoke, and redefine what a superhero story could be on television.

33. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

    Released in 2019 by Infinity Ward, Activision

    On October 25, 2019, the gaming world experienced a seismic shift with the global launch of 'Call of Duty: Modern Warfare'. This date marked not just the release of another annual installment, but a bold reimagining of the sub-series that had defined a generation of first-person shooters. Developed by Infinity Ward, the game was a soft reboot, bringing back iconic characters like Captain Price in a grittier, more realistic contemporary setting. Anticipation was immense, as fans eagerly awaited the promised return to the 'boots-on-the-ground' gameplay that made the original trilogy a phenomenon. The launch was also technically significant, introducing cross-platform play to the series for the first time, uniting players across PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One in a shared multiplayer ecosystem.

34. The Irishman

    Released in 2019 by Martin Scorsese, TriBeCa Productions, Sikelia Productions, Winkler Films, Netflix

    On November 1, 2019, Martin Scorsese's monumental crime epic "The Irishman" began its limited theatrical run, heralding the arrival of one of the most anticipated cinematic events of the decade. This release was the culmination of a project over ten years in the making, notable for reuniting Scorsese with his iconic muses Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, while also marking his first-ever collaboration with Al Pacino. The film's debut was a major cultural moment, celebrated not only for bringing these legends together but also for its ambitious use of digital de-aging technology to tell a story that sprawls across several decades of American history.

35. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball

    Released in 2019 by Jeff Kinney, Amulet Books

    Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball" exploded onto the literary scene in late 2019, cementing its place as another blockbuster entry in Jeff Kinney's phenomenally successful series. Its release was a highly anticipated event for millions of young readers globally, who eagerly awaited Greg Heffley's latest misadventures. This fifteenth installment (counting the supplemental books, twelfth main novel) didn't just sell copies; it reaffirmed the cultural omnipresence of the Wimpy Kid franchise, a phenomenon that has consistently captured the anxieties and humor of middle school life for over a decade. The book's immediate ascent to the top of bestseller lists underscored its unparalleled connection with its target demographic, proving once again that Greg Heffley's diary entries remain a cornerstone of contemporary children's literature, a true cultural touchstone.

36. Pokémon Sword / Shield

    Released in 2019 by Game Freak, Nintendo, The Pokémon Company

    On November 15, 2019, the Pokémon universe expanded onto a home console like never before with the worldwide release of Pokémon Sword and Shield for the Nintendo Switch. This date marked the launch of the eighth generation of Pokémon, introducing players to the Galar region, an area heavily inspired by Great Britain. It was a pivotal moment for the franchise, representing not only a significant graphical and technical leap by moving to the Switch but also a shift in game design with features like the expansive Wild Area. The launch was met with massive anticipation and commercial success, despite pre-release controversies, kicking off a new era for Pokémon trainers globally.

37. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

    Released in 2019 by Respawn Entertainment, Electronic Arts

    Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order launched on November 15, 2019, quickly becoming one of the year's most celebrated and bestselling titles. Its arrival was met with fervent anticipation, marking a significant return to story-driven single-player experiences within the Star Wars universe, a genre many fans felt had been underserved. The game wasn't just a commercial success; it became a cultural phenomenon, captivating both long-time Star Wars enthusiasts and new players with its compelling narrative and challenging gameplay. It proved that a well-crafted, narrative-focused adventure could thrive in a market increasingly dominated by live-service games, firmly re-establishing a beloved formula.

38. Jumanji: The Next Level

    Released in 2019 by Jake Kasdan, Sony Pictures Releasing

    December 4, 2019, marked the global theatrical premiere of 'Jumanji: The Next Level,' an eagerly awaited sequel that continued the surprisingly successful revival of the beloved franchise. Launching in key international markets before its wider North American release, this date heralded the arrival of another thrilling adventure into the perilous world of Jumanji. The film swiftly proved its box office might, demonstrating that the blend of humor, action, and star power established in its predecessor was a winning formula. This premiere date was crucial in setting the stage for its impressive run, solidifying its place as one of the highest-grossing films of 2019 and a memorable holiday season cinematic event.

39. Dog Man: Fetch 22

    Released in 2019 by Dav Pilkey, Scholastic

    The release of 'Dog Man: Fetch 22' in December 2019 by Dav Pilkey was not just another book launch; it was a cultural event that solidified the 'Dog Man' series' position as a dominant force in children's literature. Following the immense success of its predecessors, 'Fetch 22' burst onto the scene, immediately capturing the imagination of young readers worldwide. Its blend of humor, heart, and vibrant artwork made it an instant bestseller and a cornerstone of school libraries and living rooms, proving the enduring appeal of Pilkey's unique storytelling. The book's timely arrival ahead of the holiday season further amplified its popularity, making it a must-have for countless children.

40. Samsung Galaxy A51

    Released in 2019 by Samsung

    On December 12, 2019, Samsung officially unveiled the Galaxy A51 at an event in Vietnam, marking a significant strategic move in the hyper-competitive mid-range smartphone market. This announcement was not just for a new device, but for a new vision for Samsung's most popular lineup. The A51 was introduced as the successor to the incredibly successful Galaxy A50, and it showcased the company's commitment to democratizing flagship features. The launch revealed a new design ethos, featuring a centered Infinity-O punch-hole display and an L-shaped quad-camera module. By announcing it at the end of the year, Samsung strategically positioned the A51 to become a volume driver for 2020, aiming to capture consumers seeking premium aesthetics and camera versatility without a flagship price tag.

41. Samsung Galaxy A01

    Released in 2019 by Samsung

    On December 17, 2019, Samsung quietly updated its website to announce the Galaxy A01, a new entry-level smartphone. Eschewing a flashy launch event, this silent reveal was a strategic move aimed at reinforcing its dominance in the budget segment. The announcement came as Samsung was consolidating its mobile lineup, with the A-series absorbing the role of the previous J-series to better combat the rise of aggressive Chinese competitors. The Galaxy A01 was positioned as the new floor for the Galaxy experience, designed to bring a modern design and essential features to the most price-sensitive consumers in emerging markets, setting the stage for its role as a high-volume seller in the year to come.

42. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

    Released in 2019 by J.J. Abrams, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

    December 20, 2019, marked the highly anticipated North American theatrical release of "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker," the culmination of the epic Skywalker Saga that had spanned over four decades. As the final chapter in the main storyline, its debut was a global cinematic event, drawing immense crowds eager to witness the conclusion of Rey and Kylo Ren's journey. Despite mixed critical reviews, the film immediately dominated the box office, ultimately crossing the billion-dollar mark worldwide. This release date wasn't just another movie premiere; it represented a significant cultural moment, bidding farewell to an iconic narrative that had shaped generations of fans and defined the very essence of modern blockbuster filmmaking. It was the end of an era, a bittersweet send-off to beloved characters and a galaxy far, far away.

43. Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid

    Released in 2019 by Jeff Kinney, Amulet Books

    Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson's Journal" burst onto the literary scene in 2019, instantly capturing the imagination of millions of young readers and solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon. As the highly anticipated spin-off from Jeff Kinney's wildly successful 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' series, this book offered a fresh, heartwarming, and often hilarious new perspective within a beloved universe. Its release was met with immense excitement, not just from dedicated fans but also from a broader audience eager for its unique blend of humor and relatable childhood experiences. The novel quickly ascended bestseller charts, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Kinney's storytelling and the magnetic charm of its protagonist, Rowley Jefferson, making it one of the defining children's books of its year.

44. LuLu the Piggy

    Released in 2019 by TOYZERO+, Cici's Story

    LuLu the Piggy burst onto the toy scene in 2019, quickly becoming an undeniable cultural phenomenon in the world of designer toys and collectibles. This endearing character, known for its irresistibly plump form and charming expressions, captured the hearts of collectors and casual enthusiasts alike, particularly across Asia before spreading globally. Its launch tapped into the burgeoning popularity of 'blind box' collecting, creating an instant buzz and a fervent community eager to discover each new iteration of the adorable pig. LuLu wasn't just another toy; it represented a delightful blend of art, cuteness, and the thrill of the chase, cementing its place as a contemporary collecting sensation.