Following nearly four years of waiting, endless speculation, and numerous delays, Grand Theft Auto IV has finally been released today, and despite drawing complaints from parent activist groups for its violent themes, the game’s first-week of sales are expected to eclipse even those of Halo 3.

Gamers are sure to be pleased, but the game’s release is obviously an event that Sony and Microsoft have been looking forward to even more as it will likely boost hardware sales. So far, the GTA franchise has sold more than 70 million copies worldwide and holds down three of the top four spots on the list of best-selling games of all time. Judging from early reviews, Grand Theft Auto IV will be no exception to the franchise’s track record of success.