Take-Two Interactive Software has forecasted a significant rise in net bookings for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027, largely fueled by the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto VI. The video game giant, known for its blockbuster franchises, expects this surge as it prepares to launch the next installment of GTA, one of the most successful and profitable franchises in gaming history.
Following the announcement, Take-Two’s shares jumped by over five percent in after-hours trading. The company had previously narrowed down the release window for GTA VI to fall 2025, building excitement for what is expected to be a monumental event in the gaming industry.
Grand Theft Auto V, the current crown jewel of the franchise, has sold over 200 million units worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video games ever. Analysts, including Michael Pachter from Wedbush Securities, anticipate that GTA VI will be the primary driver of Take-Two’s booking growth in the coming years.
In addition to GTA VI, Take-Two has an ambitious development pipeline, with around 40 titles planned for release by fiscal 2027. Despite this optimism, the company has faced challenges, with a slight dip in first-quarter bookings and lower-than-expected projections for the second quarter, partly due to reduced in-game spending on live-service titles amid inflationary pressures.
However, Take-Two remains confident, reporting a surprise profit of 5 cents per share for the first quarter, defying analyst expectations of a loss. The company also assured that the ongoing videogame performers strike has not affected its development timelines, aligning with recent statements from industry peer Electronic Arts.
Source: Gadgets360