Yes. You read that right. A shovel-ware sequel, staring two of the oldest gaming icons, one of which arguably should have mercifully been laid to rest years ago, has sold enough copies to outnumber the residents of the state of Alabama. And with the Winter Olympics now in full swing, don’t expect those numbers to taper off just yet. Mike Hayes, CEO for SEGA America and SEGA Europe had this to say:

“The original Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games was a huge success for SEGA. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is one of the leading third party games for Wii and DS and we were confident the title would have longevity within retail. The start of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games is a perfect time to ensure SEGA is at the forefront of the consumer’s mind when it comes to recreating that Olympic Winter Games feeling in living rooms everywhere.”

With these games selling as well as they are, don’t be surprised to see one every two years. All we can hope for is a better one, and that Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is as good as it looks.