Battlefield 3 videogame sales blow away EA record

Electronic Arts (EA) announced that Battlefield 3 has become its fastest selling video game ever, with players snapping up more than five million copies since it launched last week. "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 executive vice president said Patrick Soderlund. "Already, we are seeing unprecedented play times and online activity which is very rewarding," he continued. "This launch solidifies Battlefield as a leading entertainment brand." The latest edition to popular Battlefield military shooter franchise has reportedly generated more than $300 million in revenue since the veteran US video game maker released it on October 25. An unprecedented number of people took to playing Battlefield 3 online during the weekend, causing some system stumbles, according to EA. "This has been our largest launch to date," the 29-year-old US video game company said at its Battlefield 3 blog. "The overwhelming response has been as humbling as it is appreciated," the message continued. "Battlefield 3 is the fastest selling game in EA's history, but is not without its ups and downs." EA said that the system supporting online multi-player features in the video game "was stabilized to roughly 98.9 percent" during the weekend. The game is set near in a near future, with players taking on roles as US Marines tackling missions places such as Paris, New York and Tehran.