Modern Warfare 3 hits $1 billion in 16 days - info

Activision's announced that Modern Warfare 3 has hit the $1 billion mark, 16 days after it released.

The milestone was reached a day earlier than Avatar, which reached $1 billion in 17 days.

“Engagement of our Call of Duty audience continues to rise around the world” said Acti CEO Bobby Kotick. “Call of Duty as an entertainment franchise has made an indelible mark on popular culture and its broad and continued success is further validation that audiences increasingly value interactive experiences over passive experiences."

Activision Publishing CEO Eric Hirshberg added: "Call of Duty has become that rare entertainment franchise that transcends its own genre. Core gamers love it, as our stellar reviews show. But every year, new people are drawn into Call of Duty.

"And while the franchise continues to set records, our fans still seem to want more, demonstrated by our record setting start on Call of Duty Elite. We are committed to helping everyone connect, compete and improve their game, Call of Duty style."

Since releasing the Infinity Ward/Slegehammer collaboration at the beginning of November, Activision announced US-UK sales of 6.5 million in its opening 24 hours, making $400 million in the process.

In the five days after launch, it raked in $775 million, but has not disclosed any recent sales numbers.

The game won best shooter at the VGAs over the weekend, but was kicked off the top of the UK charts by Elder Scrolls: Skyrim.