Another year, another Call of Duty record smashed.

In a press release, Activision stated Call of Duty: Black Ops II sold more than $500 million worldwide in the first 24 hours of release, making it the fourth year in a row a game in the franchise is the biggest entertainment launch of the year and smashing records everywhere. There were more than 16,000 midnight openings at stores worldwide and Twitter was abuzz for this annual release.

It's pretty much become the Apple of video games. The franchise has its strong vocal supporters and opponents, and rakes in monster cash every year. Even if you hate the game, you have to come away impressed. A half of billion dollars is nothing to scoff at. The gaming industry needs it, especially during this dragged-out generation.

Black Ops II is available for PS3, Xbox 360 and PC. A Wii U version will be released Nov. 18 when the new console launches. It would make a great Christmas gift for someone, but odds are they already own it.

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