Battlefield 3 is biggest EA launch, sells 5 million

Based on internal estimates, Battlefield 3 has sold more than 5 million units in its first week of release, making it the fastest selling game in EA's history.

EA's also released some interesting data to go with this news: so far, Battlefield 3 gamers executed 73 million savior kills, 48 million revives, and destroyed 67 million vehicles.

"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 Patrick Soderlund, EVP of the EA.

"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," he said.

EA also revealed that the Battlefield franchise has now sold over 50 million units life-to-date, with the first release being in 2002 - Battlefield 1942.

The DICE-developed shooter released on October 25 in US, and October 28 in the UK. It's debuted at the number one spot in this week's UK charts.