It’s clear that Battlefield 3 is a great game. Sure there are numerous problems with the online multiplayer spoiling it for some, but overall – it’s a fantastic experience. This has just been reflected by EA’s announcement of first week sales for the DICE shooter, and the company has broken records.
Battlefield 3 now becomes EA’s fastest selling game ever according to EA’s internal estimates, and there is little doubt that EA will be delighted with the reception so far. We too have been loving it, and after playing all weekend we can tell you that riding a tank with a friend across Caspian Border on Conquest was some of the most enjoyable hours we have had for a long time on a game.
Here’s some recent feedback from EA in relation to Battlefield 3 managing to sell 5 million copies in its first week alone. EA exec Patrick Soderlund said this, as reported from Eurogamer:
”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.”
The question on our minds now though, is will that ‘leading entertainment brand’ manage to hold off Activision’s imminent Modern Warfare 3? Their game launches on November 8 and Battlefield 3’s online player count is likely to take a considerable hit once Infinity Ward unleash their online multiplayer to the world.
Considering that Modern Warfare 2 reportedly sold 4.7 million copies in the first 24 hours in just the UK and US, it is almost inevitable that EA won’t be able to match Activision once again in the sales department. Anticipation for MW3 is also unprecedented too, so don’t be surprised if Modern Warfare 3 ends up being the biggest entertainment product of the year, again.
While EA and Activision fight it out over sales, popularity and gameplay is what matters to gamers the most. How much are you enjoying Battlefield 3 at the moment, and do you think you’ll leave the BF3 servers for a few weeks to play MW3?
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