Take-Two Sells Private Division to Focus on Creating Big Hits

Take-Two Interactive Confirms Sale of Indie Label Private Division

Earlier this year, speculation intensified regarding Take-Two Interactive’s independent publishing label, Private Division, following reports of significant layoffs among its staff. After a prolonged period of silence, the renowned GTA publisher has officially announced the sale of Private Division, confirming industry rumors.

Details of the Sale

This strategic sale encompasses the entire Private Division brand along with the majority of game titles still under publishing contracts. Notably, Take-Two has yet to reveal the identity of the buyer, although CEO Strauss Zelnick indicated that this information will be disclosed “relatively soon.”

Strategic Focus on Core Business

In a statement to GamesIndustry.biz, Zelnick articulated the rationale behind this pivotal decision: “We made this strategic decision so that we could focus all of our resources on growing our core and mobile businesses for the long term.” He emphasized Take-Two’s commitment to developing significant AAA titles and leveraging their strong portfolio of intellectual properties (IPs) to foster future success.

The Future of Independent Projects

Despite praising the efforts of the Private Division team in championing independent developers, Zelnick clarified their company’s direction, stating:

“The team of Private Division did a great job supporting independent developers, and almost to a one, every project they supported did well. However, the scale of those projects was, candidly, on the smaller side, and we’re in the business of making great big hits.”

Upcoming Titles and Continuing Support

Among the titles reportedly transitioning to the new, unnamed publisher is the eagerly anticipated game set in the The Lord of the Rings universe, Tales of the Shire. In this unique experience, players will embody hobbits in a simulation setting. However, it’s crucial to note that the sale does not extend to the publishing rights of No Rest for the Wicked, the upcoming title developed by Moon Studios, creators of the acclaimed Ori series. Take-Two has committed to supporting this early access title going forward.

For further insights and updates, visit the original source: Neowin.