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New Grand Theft May Shatter Sales Records Today

Controversial game could change math in EA takeover bid

By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 29, 2008 8:55 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Everyone’s favorite controversy magnet is coming back to consoles—and it’s going to make a lot of money. Grand Theft Auto IV went on sale today, and it’s expected to shatter sales records, the Wall Street Journal reports. One analyst predicts $400 million in its first week. An opening like that could change the fortunes of its producer, Take-Two Interactive Software, which is in takeover talks.

Electronic Arts has been trying to buy Take-Two for some time, offering $25.74-per-share. Take-Two thinks that's too low and has staved off the bid until after the debut of the new GTA, which has stoked controversy for its violence and sex. “We've maintained all along that the full potential of Grand Theft Auto IV would be evident after the launch,” said the CEO. “We are very pleased.”

Three 10-story high murals promoting the debut of the computer game GTA Grand Theft Auto IV are seen on the Figueroa Hotel in downtown Los Angeles Thursday, April 24, 2008.
Three 10-story high murals promoting the debut of the computer game GTA Grand Theft Auto IV are seen on the Figueroa Hotel in downtown Los Angeles Thursday, April 24, 2008.   (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
This photo released by Rockstar Games shows a scene from Grand Theft Auto IV.
This photo released by Rockstar Games shows a scene from "Grand Theft Auto IV".   (AP Photo/Rockstar Games)
In this file image provided by Rockstar Games/Take-Two Interactive Software Inc., a scene from Grand Theft Auto IV is shown.
In this file image provided by Rockstar Games/Take-Two Interactive Software Inc., a scene from "Grand Theft Auto IV" is shown.   (AP Photo/Rockstar Games)
This photo released by Rockstar Games shows a scene from the video game Grand Theft Auto IV.
This photo released by Rockstar Games shows a scene from the video game Grand Theft Auto IV.   (AP Photo/Rockstar Games)
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A trailer for Grand Theft Auto IV.   (Laitaly)

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COMMENTS
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Critics really, really love GTA IV
Metacritic

Man stabbed in line for game
Telegraph (UK)

CEO bullish on GTA sales
Reuters

What's so fun about Grand Theft Auto?
MSNBC

What does the M-Rating mean?
Atlanta Journal-Constitution

 
Electronic Arts • Take-Two Interactive Software • Grand Theft Auto • Grand Theft Auto IV • video games

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