Take‑Two's Zelnick Dismisses Shareholder Concerns Over GTA VI Delay, Highlights GTA V's Record Sales
Take‑Two Interactive chief executive Strauss Zelnick said on Tuesday that the company remains confident in its long‑term strategy despite the announced postponement of the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI. He emphasized that Grand Theft Auto V and its online component continue to generate substantial revenue more than a decade after launch, noting that total copies sold now exceed the entire population of Brazil.
According to the latest internal figures shared with investors, Grand Theft Auto V has sold roughly 215 million units worldwide, surpassing Brazil’s 213 million inhabitants. The title’s persistent popularity has been driven by regular content updates for GTA Online, which keep the player base engaged and contribute to ongoing microtransaction revenue. The company highlighted that monthly earnings from the franchise remain among the highest in the gaming sector.
Delays of flagship titles are not uncommon in the industry, and analysts note that the development cycle for a game of GTA VI’s scope often exceeds five years. While some shareholders expressed unease about the timing, Zelnick reassured them that the delay allows developers to refine the product and avoid the pitfalls of a rushed launch. He added that Take‑Two’s diversified portfolio, which includes other strong-performing franchises, provides a buffer against short‑term fluctuations.
Market observers responded with a measured outlook. Industry analysts pointed out that the sustained performance of GTA V mitigates immediate financial risk and that the company’s cash flow remains robust. They also indicated that the anticipation surrounding GTA VI could translate into a significant sales surge once the game is released, potentially offsetting any temporary dip in investor sentiment.
Looking ahead, Take‑Two plans to continue leveraging GTA V’s online ecosystem while finalizing development on GTA VI. The firm expects the next installment to build on the franchise’s legacy and deliver new revenue streams. In the meantime, the company’s focus remains on maintaining the momentum of its existing titles and delivering value to shareholders over the long term.
