Take-Two Interactive is Planning For the Long-Term Future, Not Resting on its Laurels – CEO

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As Grand Theft Auto 6, set for release on May 26, 2026, potentially brings Take-Two Interactive unprecedented profits, according to CEO Strauss Zelnick, the company is not content with resting on their accomplishments. In a conversation with The Game Business, Zelnick discussed the challenges of competing in today’s gaming market and emphasized that success isn’t automatic, even for highly anticipated releases.

In Zelnick’s words, “We don’t simply bask in our past achievements; we’re well aware that future success isn’t automatic. Instead, we’re constantly vigilant, operating as if we’re always playing catch-up. I often stress that overconfidence can hinder long-term prosperity. In the coming years – be it two, three, five, or even ten – we anticipate a plethora of groundbreaking new games and possibly innovative new formats.

Our approach consists of three key elements: being the most imaginative, forward-thinking, and productive company in our field. It’s crucial that we stay innovative to maintain our leading position. While I can’t pinpoint exact preferences between young people and other demographics, I am confident that there is significant potential for success if we offer something extraordinary and surprising.

Zelnick discussed various topics, including plans by one of Take-Two’s subsidiaries, Zynga, to broaden its gaming audience. This expansion aims to target emerging markets such as the Middle East and India in the long term. In contrast to short-term strategies, Take-Two’s business approach is geared towards longevity, with Zelnick emphasizing, “We manage this business for the next five, ten, fifteen, or even twenty years.

18 years ago, my team and I assumed ownership of this company. At that time, I never imagined I’d still be here after 18 years. Frankly, it was unforeseeable. However, I did envision a business that would be robust, thriving, and expanding in the long term. And that’s exactly what we have built. Now, just as before, my goal remains the same – to foster growth and success for this company. Critics may say that markets are short-term oriented; however, it is human beings who are predisposed towards short-term thinking. But we are different.

Regarding the company’s future strategy for stagnating console sales, Zelnick mentioned their approach of aiming to reach a broad audience by launching their games on multiple platforms. However, he pointed out that not all games are available simultaneously across all platforms, but they do eventually become accessible everywhere. For instance, the Grand Theft Auto series serves as an example of this strategy.

Zelnick expressed optimism about the console business, stating that they intend to distribute their games across various platforms where players can be found, not just at launch, but gradually over time. He emphasized that they are not tied to a specific technological framework and shouldn’t be.

During a recent question-and-answer session, Zelnick discussed the reason behind pricing Borderlands 4 at $70 instead of $80.

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2025-08-08 18:42