Microsoft's Shane Kim says the company's "Halo" series is "arguably the biggest franchise in our industry today."

Say what?

I'd like to see the numbers backing that up. I'd argue the title would more likely go to Nintendo's Mario (which has appeared in some 77 games) franchise, Nintendo's Zelda franchise or even perhaps the top-selling "Grand Theft Auto" series.

"Halo" is huge, no doubt about it. Not huge enough to get a movie through production, apparently, but a formidable rock of the industry. Perhaps "Halo 3," when it comes out in 2007, could cement the franchise in the top spot, but until then I need more evidence to believe Kim's remarks.