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Animal Crossing: New Leaf has been, in all likelihood, Nintendo's biggest release of the year to date. It's been long awaited by keen fans, but has also enjoyed a substantial build-up and marketing campaign as the company has sought to recreate the game's phenomenal success in Japan. Nintendo's stated that the U.S. launch has been a triumph — though we await firm figures — and it's started well in the UK, making its debut in second place in the all-format chart.

It's been pipped to top spot by The Last of Us on PS3, but its placing is an excellent achievement considering the fact that the UKIE chart only accounts for physical retail sales, and a fair few have undoubtedly utilised the "so many games" free download promotion in Europe. UKIE has stated that New Leaf has enjoyed the biggest 3DS launch since Mario Kart 7, and the biggest overall for a non-Mario title on the system.

Elsewhere in the chart Luigi's Mansion 2 saw sales increase 18% to come in ninth place. Further down we have 3DS exclusives Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D in 15th and LEGO City Undercover: The Chase Begins in 23rd, while Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity and Fire Emblem: Awakening cling on in 37th and 40th respectively; dual release Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate keeps its top 40 place in 35th position.

So, overall, a strong week for 3DS, as it continues its run of multiple titles in the all-format top ten. Nintendo UK will be delighted that Animal Crossing New Leaf is the system's biggest launch week title in well over a year, as the bug seems to have bitten the region.

[source ukie.info]