The problem stems from "a defect [that] occurred during replication" and does not affect the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, Evolved explained. Developed by GRIN and inspired by the movie that hits theaters this week, the game arrived on store shelves yesterday.

Valve has told us that digital copies of the game sold on its Steam service are unaffected.

Reviews for the game have been lukewarm, citing a short four-to-five hour campaign and repetitive gameplay.

Fixed copies will be on store shelves soon, Evolved added, with the company planning to announce details on a replacement plan for existing buyers shortly.

The full text of the publisher's statement follows below:

Unfortunately a defect occurred during replication of the PC version of Terminator Salvation, which does not allow end users to install the game. The Xbox 360 and PS3 are not affected and function properly. We have recalled all PC copies of Terminator Salvation from retail in North America and are currently in the process of replicating new copies. The new copies will be on store shelves in a few days. A replacement plan for all end users that purchased the defective units is currently being set up. Details to get a replacement copy will be announced shortly. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused the end users that purchased the defective copy.