Microsoft has confirmed (via MCV) that the Xbox 360 has sold more units in its first 3 years of business than the original Xbox did during its life. According to the report, 25 million big-fat-black Xboxs were shipped between Nov 2001 and May 2005. That means the sleeker, sexier 360 is a full year in front of its predecessor.

Xbox 360 sales were originally projected to eclipse those of the previous generation by January, and more recently by the end of the month. But a massive marketing campaign and the September price cuts have lead to sales exceeding expectations. Furthermore, Microsoft believes this is only the beginning, as most consoles ship three quarters of their lifetime sales once they hit the Xbox 360 Arcade’s current price of $199.