Take-Two CEO explains the biggest threat to the Grand Theft Auto franchise

Former Rockstar employees have yet to match the success of Grand Theft Auto, according to Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick.

The Take-Two CEO noted that many developers, including those with Rockstar backgrounds, have tried and failed to create a hit on par with GTA or other major Take-Two titles. Zelnick emphasized that technology alone won't disrupt Rockstar's dominance. Instead, he believes it will take "extraordinarily creative individuals" to challenge the company's legacy.

He also confirmed GTA 6 will launch in November 2026, following a 13-year gap since GTA 5. Meanwhile, GTA 5 remains a commercial powerhouse, selling 5 million units each quarter, while GTA Online continues to receive regular updates and rakes in millions of dollars per week for Rockstar and Take-Two.

"Lots of other people have tried. Lots and lots, including former Rockstar employees. So far, they haven't been able to do it. Doesn't mean they can't in the future, by the way. We're always running scared. But it won't be technology that changes the game.

That won't be the change. What'll change is that some extraordinarily creative individual or individuals will show up and do something astonishing. Our goal is to get those people to work within the Take-Two system. If we fail to do that, we fail," said Zelnick

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Rockstar's internal struggles have also come to light, with developers criticizing the company's "reckless" management and policy changes. These issues have reportedly led to internal tensions, layoffs, and even protests.

Despite this, Rockstar continues to work on what can only be described as the most highly anticipated piece of media that will be released in 2026. And with expectations at unreasonable levels, Rockstar Games is facing what will be one of the most anticipated game launches in video game history.

As GTA 6 nears release, all eyes are on whether Rockstar can stick the landing of Grand Theft Auto 6, or if the game will release in a state that leaves players with a bad taste in their mouth. If I were to bet, I think I'd put my chips in Rockstar's corner for a very smooth release, especially given the delays for extra polishing time, and a decade-plus of development.