When Take-Two Interactive launched GTA IV back in April, the game was an instant blockbuster, shattering entertainment records with $500 million in revenue during the first week. Now, however, the latest NPD data shows that the title has slipped to 46th place in August (down from 45th in July).
Dow Jones argues that GTA IV's "considerably" slowing sales could undercut Take-Two's position that Electronic Arts' buyout bid undervalues the company. The report also speculates that the slowing sales bring "fresh concerns that at about 8.5 million sold to date, Take-Two's powerhouse GTA IV may have a tough time meeting sales expectations." That said, a Take-Two spokeswoman said the publisher expects sales to "continue at an energetic pace."
With EA having recently let its hostile bid expire, Take-Two and EA have been talking behind closed doors. Analysts appear divided on whether or not a deal will get done. Some believe increasing the bid per share by just two to three dollars would cinch it, while others believe Take-Two's value is waning now with GTA fading, and EA won't increase its bid much, if at all.
Reader Comments (15)
Other GTAs have been in the top 20 for at least a year. The fact that it dropped so quickly actually is pretty interesting.
Well duuh sales r dropping. I think the only reason sales r even at 46 is because i had to buy the game 3 damn times. (long story money issues involved) pls noone come on here saying buying it 3 times wont make ne difference. I know it wont make that huge difference everyone is looking or p.s This is another overhyped story from the media if noone has said that already.
The only reason why the sales of GTA IV are falling is simply because everyone already has it.
Did they really expect this game to continue selling after so many months?
Agreed with DJ - TT has overestimated the long term worth of the franchise, and it's going to hurt them with investors. Understand if they simply don't want the EA bid, but they have to be realistic about how much the company is really worth.