Microsoft and Epic Games announced that Gears of War 3 sold more than three million copies in its first week since release, proving that Gears 3 was the biggest game of 2011 and putting the franchise beyond one billion dollars in lifetime sales.

In just one week, Gears of War 3 has already grossed more than any video game in 2011. In addition to topping this year’s sales charts, the Gears of War franchise has surpassed one billion dollars in lifetime sales. Gears of War 3 is also the first Xbox 360-exclusive franchise introduced in this console cycle to eclipse the billion dollar milestone.

"Gears of War was the first killer app for Xbox 360, and the series has continued to contribute directly to the overall success of the platform ever since," said Microsoft Corporate Vice President Phil Spencer. "Gears of War 3 kicked off the biggest holiday in Xbox history with a bang last week, setting the standard for the kinds of amazing, action-packed experiences gamers should expect on Xbox 360 this year."

For more about the game, check out gearsofwar.xbox.com .