In a press release, Capcom states that they are "pleased" to announce that Resident Evil 6 has now surpassed 4.5 million units shipped worldwide.
If that wasn't impressive enough for you, the publisher has also revealed that the Resident Evil brand has recorded cumulative sales of more than 50 million units since the first Resident Evil was released back in 1996.
Here's what Capcom had to say regarding the matter:
Resident Evil 6" takes the series to the next step with graphics that deliver even greater realism and power. The game features dramatic stories that bring together for the first time two major characters of the series: "Leon" and "Chris". In all, there are seven main characters and four stories, giving this title an unprecedented volume of game playing enjoyment. There are also upgraded online functions like the cooperative and crossover system as well as new types of action. Overall, "Resident Evil 6" offers a broad range of new forms of appeal. This is the first new title in the series in three and a half years
Not only are the figures impressive, but it's the highest ever in Capcom's entire history. According to the publisher, "Resident Evil 6 takes advantage of all of Capcom's capabilities to offer quality that is far ahead of other games. Supported by extensive promotional activities worldwide, the initial shipment of this new game has reached 4.5 million, the highest ever for a Capcom game."
Not to be an ass, but I don't think touting your game as having "quality far ahead of other games" while it's averaging a paltry 66 on Metacritic is a good thing. Of course, bear in mind that this 4.5 million is shipped and not sold. So, we don't know the actual sell-through numbers just yet.
Have you played Resident Evil 6? If so, do you think it deserves the harsh criticisms it has received so far? Also, how many of these 4.5 million copies do you think will be in the bargain bin in just a few weeks?