Actually, they did well. MW3 made $775 million in it's first 5 days.
"Life-to-date retail sales for the Call of Duty franchise have exceeded $6 billion worldwide, which makes Call of Duty one of the most valuable entertainment properties in the world. We expect continued sales momentum, as reviews and audience enthusiasm suggest that this is the best Call of Duty game that we have ever made."( Source: http://www.themodernwarfare3.com/)