Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 did not fail to live up to the expectations as one of the most eagerly anticipated videogames releases of all time. Initial first day UK sales - November 10 - reveal that Modern Warfare 2 sold an estimated 1.23 million units, grossing around GBP 47 million. According to figures just released by ELSPA/GfK-ChartTrack, this almost doubles the previous record held by Grand Theft Auto IV which sold an estimated 631,000 units, grossing GBP 27.2 million on its first day of release (April 29, 2008).

Michael Rawlinson, Director General, Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (ELSPA), said, These first day sales figures are astonishing and clear evidence that videogames are now mainstream in the UK. Our form of interactive entertainment has completely come of age. Just like some movies and books, this is specifically intended for an adult audience and accordingly has emotional, adult content. So, as an 18-rated videogame, it is important that this game is not played by children, and parents should be appropriately vigilant. We ask everyone to make sure they check the packaging of games to ensure they are suitable for their players, especially as we enter the festive season when videogames are one of the most popular gifts of the holiday.