Modern Warfare 2 the odds-on favourite.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 screenshot

Online bookies Paddy Power has revealed the odds for this year's Christmas No.1 video game, with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Assassin's Creed II and FIFA 10 the favourites.

The higher than usual retail price for Activision's Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 doesn't appear to have made the slightest bit of difference to the betting, with Paddy Power putting the FPS sequel as the odds-on favourite at 13/8. Offering a slighter better return is Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed II with odds of 9/4.

It's FIFA 10 at 6/1 which looks the best bet, though. FIFA 09 claimed the Xmas crown in 2008 and there's little to suggest FIFA 10 won't be just as popular in Santa's sleigh this year.

A Paddy Power spokesperson told MCV: "When the full weight of Activision's marketing machine kicks into gear we’re in no doubt that Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 will enjoy the lion's share of the games market this December."

SEGA believes its Mario & Sonic sequel (12/1) is also a contender.

"There are only three games that can be Christmas No.1. Call of Duty, FIFA or Mario & Sonic. It is as simple as that," said SEGA UK’s MD John Clark.

You'll find a full rundown of this year's contenders on MCV.