Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick Discusses Tariffs, AI, and the Highly Anticipated GTA 6

As Take-Two Interactive reported its strong Q3 FY 2025 results and prepared investors for a blockbuster year that includes the release of Rockstar's highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6, Take-Two CEO and chairman Strauss Zelnick sat down with GamesIndustry.biz to discuss the results and key industry issues in 2025. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. Take-Two boasts a diverse portfolio this year, with a mix of annualized properties and long-term projects. This strategy, which began in 2007, aims to strike a balance between delivering consistent revenue and allowing creative teams the time and space needed to develop high-quality, non-annualized titles. According to Zelnick, only a select number of sports entertainment titles should be annualized, as this approach helps maintain product quality, build franchises, and foster anticipation among consumers. The extraordinary enthusiasm surrounding GTA 6 and other upcoming titles, such as Mafia and Civilization 7, demonstrates the effectiveness of this strategy. When asked about the mobile business, Zelnick noted that the industry has rebounded from its downturn in mid-2022, with Take-Two's current consumer spending increasing 6% year-over-year. The acquisition of Zynga has been a significant factor in this growth, with the mobile business addressing a distinct consumer demographic that skews more female and older. Regarding tariffs, Zelnick emphasized that a world without tariffs is generally preferable, but acknowledged that they may be necessary in certain situations, such as preventing economic dumping. He expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing discussions and negotiations aimed at avoiding trade wars. The active community surrounding older Take-Two properties, such as GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, can be attributed to Rockstar's unique approach and the company's willingness to provide the necessary resources and support. Rockstar's pursuit of perfection and its focus on a limited number of titles have enabled the creation of incredibly successful and enduring franchises. As for GTA 6, Zelnick reaffirmed that the game is on track for a fall 2025 release, with the team working diligently to deliver a high-quality experience. He also addressed the role of AI in Take-Two's strategy, stating that while AI can enhance efficiency and productivity, it is essential to respect intellectual property rights and implement necessary guardrails to prevent infringement. Ultimately, Zelnick believes that technology, including AI, will drive employment growth, increase productivity, and contribute to the industry's continued success.