Ben-DutkaThe analysts were right and Activision – and millions of gamers everywhere – got exactly what they wanted.
Today, Activision Blizzard has announced that Infinity Ward's Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is officially the single biggest entertainment launch in history, shattering both theatrical box office and video game sales records in a five-day period. Internal estimates put the take at about $550 million in that span of time, which tops the largest five-day opening worldwide box office gross figures for a movie, which was "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ($394 million). In the game world, this just squeaks past Grand Theft Auto IV , which sold 6 million units and brought in about $500 million in the first five days. And in terms of opening day, Modern Warfare 2 once again comes out on top, beating out the domestic box office record ("The Dark Knight;" $66.4 million), largest first-day book sales ("Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows;" $220 million), and the launch day for GTAIV (3.6 million sold; $310 million). Said Robert Kotick, CEO of Activision Blizzard:
"In just five days of sell through Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 has become the largest entertainment launch in history and a pop culture phenomenon. The title’s success redefines entertainment as millions of consumers have chosen to play Modern Warfare 2 at unprecedented levels rather engage in other forms of media."
It's interesting to note that towards the end of this impressive press release, it says that Activision "remains cautious about the U.S. and global economy as well as other variables that can affect industry fundamentals and our own performance, including consumer spending, which remains a significant concern." Well, I suppose that makes plenty of sense but when you've got $550 million filling your coffers after only five days time, perhaps there's no need for this disclaimer.
Related Game(s): Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
