As if there was any inkling of doubt, Battlefield 3 is shaping up to be one of the biggest games this year. In a release issued today, EA boasts that the ambitious shooter has sold 5 million copies to date globally, making it the fastest-selling effort in EA’s history according to internal data.

“From Tokyo to Los Angeles, Sydney to London, millions of fans have been playing all weekend long — we are overwhelmed by the global response to Battlefield 3,” said EA Games VP Patrick Soderlund.

He added, “It is extremely gratifying to deliver an entertainment experience that delights our fans, and to have the opportunity to introduce new people to the franchise. Already, we are seeing unprecedented play times and online activity which is very rewarding. This launch solidifies Battlefield as a leading entertainment brand.”

It’s an impressive debut, there’s no question. How the launch stacks up against the juggernaut that is Call of Duty remains to be seen, however. Activision’s Modern Warfare 3 launches in just under two weeks — November 8.

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