It seems the very popular franchise is bigger than ever, as GTA4 sold 6 million copies globally in its first week - with an estimated retail value of more than $500 million. Also, Grand Theft Auto IV sold approximately 3.6 million units on its opening day (a retail value of approximately $310 million globally).

I don’t know about the rest of you, but it seems like every person I know is either playing the game or talking about it. A Grand Theft Auto release is always a major event, but this one seems even bigger.

Not only did the game get amazing reviews, but it’s the first time it’s been on the next gen systems (PS3 and Xbox 360), so gamers are more excited than ever to be playing it.

Also, I played the game last weekend and was floored by not only the graphics, but the world Rockstar created. If you own either system or you haven’t bought it yet…this game is absolutely a must own title. The only negative I can say about GTA4 is...it will suck all your free time and if you’re not playing, you’ll want to be. If I was rating the game, I’d give it a 9.5 out of ten. Seriously, it’s that good.

Anyway, here’s the propaganda that was sent out in the press release:

 
"We knew Grand Theft Auto IV would break new ground in terms of the player's experience, with its compelling story line, extraordinary gameplay and action that ranges over a broad urban canvas. Now, it has broken sales and rating records as well. Grand Theft Auto IV's first week performance represents the largest launch in the history of interactive entertainment, and we believe these retail sales levels surpass any movie or music launch to date. We congratulate the entire Rockstar team on creating a must-have experience that takes the legendary Grand Theft Auto franchise to a new level," said Strauss Zelnick, Chairman of Take-Two.

"Rockstar's goal is to make each new title in the Grand Theft Auto franchise even better than those that preceded it, and Grand Theft Auto IV is a smashing success on that score. Grand Theft Auto IV makes full use of the power of next generation technology, and offers players an experience unique in the interactive entertainment medium. This game sets a new standard in the industry, with critics hailing it as both an artistic and technological masterpiece," said Ben Feder, Take-Two's Chief Executive Officer.