Hoping to tip the tide in the next-generation console wars, Microsoft has announced that Gears of War has become the fastest selling next-generation game of 2006 and the fastest selling exclusive Xbox game ever.

The title from Microsoft Game Studios and Epic Games has sold more than two million copies worldwide since its release six weeks ago, with one million copies sold in the US alone.

"We have always held high hopes for Gears of War, but we never expected such an overwhelmingly positive response from critics and gamers all over the world," said Michael Capps, president of Epic Games.

Gears of War also made an impact on the Xbox Live battlefield as well, with more than one million unique gamers engaging in 10 million online gameplay sessions and unlocking an impressive seven million 'achievements'.

The title has driven new members to the network, and paid registrations per day have skyrocketed more than 50 per cent since its launch.