The first week of sales for Gears of War 3 certainly has made Microsoft and developer Epic pretty happy, with reported sales of over three million in the first week. The three million number is said to be actual copies sold to consumers during the first week of sales.

With the sales numbers of Gears of War 3, Microsoft and Epic have single handedly grossed more than any release of 2011 so far. In addition, the three million in sales also pushes the Gears of War franchise into new territory, as it is the first Xbox 360 exclusive franchise to reach the ranks of over one billion in lifetime sales for the franchise.

Microsoft is excited, as they believe that Gears of War 3 has kicked off the largest and most successful holiday season for the Xbox 360 console since release. Microsoft is banking on a number of exclusives, as well as several high profile releases between now and the end of the year to push the software sales numbers.

Next up for the 360 is Rage, Forza 4, Batman: Arkham City, Battlefield 3, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Microsoft will also be releasing Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, which is an HD-enhanced version of the first Halo. Saints Row 3 and Assassin’s Creed Revelations are also expected to do well. Microsoft will be counting on these titles to deliver the sales this holiday season.