Take 2 Interactive has inked a new deal with Grand Theft Auto creators Rockstar Studios that will keep the studio in Take 2’s fold through January 31, 2012. Although precise terms of the arrangement weren’t revealed, the new deal is “primarily” a profit-sharing agreement, which means if future Grand Theft Auto games sell well, Rockstar will reap the rewards. The deal also locks key members of the Rockstar creative team (including Sam Houser, Dan Houser and Leslie Benzies) into long-term employment agreements, and Take 2 will find a new company, controlled by Rockstar, to develop new games and franchises that will be published exclusively by Take 2 Interactive.
“We’re delighted with the extension and expansion of Take-Two’s relationship with the Rockstar team,” said Take 2 chairman Strauss Zelnick, in a statement. “The talent and creativity at Rockstar are unparalleled in our industry. Their dedication to making extraordinary games has captured the enthusiasm of millions of fans around the world and has contributed enormously to establishing Take-Two as a force in the global video game marketplace and advancing our goal to become the most creative and most innovative company in the industry.”
Locking Rockstar into a long-term deal also gives Take 2 some leverage in its efforts to remain an independent game publishers. Earlier this year, mega-publisher Electronic Arts made an unsolicited offer to take over Take 2 just prior to the release of Grand Theft Auto IV. Take 2 investors didn’t bite, though—despite several deadline extensions—although Take 2 has at least publicly said it remains open to pursuing partnership opportunities.
