Take-Two chief executive Strauss Zelnick said the publisher could benefit as weaker rivals struggle, describing this as “winning by attrition” despite saying he did not enjoy it. His remarks underline the company’s confidence ahead of Grand Theft Auto 6, one of the industry’s most anticipated releases, during a period of widespread pressure on games businesses.

The comments came against a backdrop of studio closures, job cuts and a more selective market for new games. Take-Two is relying on its established franchises, particularly GTA, while the next instalment’s eventual release is expected to have a major commercial impact for both the publisher and the wider sector.