Take-Two CEO says he doesn't play video games, focuses on talent management
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | May 17, 2025, 06.58 PM IST
During a recent CNBC's Squawk Box appearance, Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick provided blunt commentary on his leadership style and daily habits. When pressed about playing or viewing Grand Theft Auto VI, Zelnick announced that he doesn't play video games at all. Rather, he spoke to his emphasis on keeping top-shelf talent in order to produce creative excellence on the company's flagship titles.
During the interview, Zelnick was asked point-blank if he had engaged with GTA 6. His answer was refreshingly candid: "I am not a gamer. I do not play video games at all." Zelnick then went on to explain that his role is not to be what he referred to as a "consumer in chief," but to guide the organization via strategic leadership.
“My role is to attract, retain, and motivate the best talent in the business and then get out of their way,” Zelnick stated. He added that while he offers his opinions openly, attempting to become the lead consumer as a CEO in the entertainment space would be a mistake.
Zelnick's comments stem from his wide-ranging experience in entertainment industries. Having been in the film, television, and music businesses before entering video game companies, he said he never played the part of "consumer in chief" in those markets either. Rather, he said, success results from giving creative professionals power and believing in their vision.
His remarks were made against the backdrop of more general questions regarding GTA 6 and its recent postponement to May 2026. Although Zelnick has commented on the timeline and offered optimism over the new window of release, this interview provided a rare glimpse into how he perceives his own role within the development cycle of one of the globe's most hyped games.
Strauss Zelnick's vision enlightens us on a management style that prioritizes artistic liberty over personal engagement. Through delegating the task of bringing its vision to life to Rockstar Games and concentrating on putting together the best talent in the world, Zelnick places Take-Two on track for sustained success, without having to put down his controller. To quote, his job is not to play the game, but to assist in constructing the proper team to do so.
Also Read: Strauss Zelnick discusses GTA 6 delay in CNBC interview, reaffirms confidence in new date
Zelnick describes himself as not a gamer, emphasizes leadership over play
During the interview, Zelnick was asked point-blank if he had engaged with GTA 6. His answer was refreshingly candid: "I am not a gamer. I do not play video games at all." Zelnick then went on to explain that his role is not to be what he referred to as a "consumer in chief," but to guide the organization via strategic leadership.
“My role is to attract, retain, and motivate the best talent in the business and then get out of their way,” Zelnick stated. He added that while he offers his opinions openly, attempting to become the lead consumer as a CEO in the entertainment space would be a mistake.
Experience from other industries shapes Zelnick’s approach
Zelnick's comments stem from his wide-ranging experience in entertainment industries. Having been in the film, television, and music businesses before entering video game companies, he said he never played the part of "consumer in chief" in those markets either. Rather, he said, success results from giving creative professionals power and believing in their vision.
His remarks were made against the backdrop of more general questions regarding GTA 6 and its recent postponement to May 2026. Although Zelnick has commented on the timeline and offered optimism over the new window of release, this interview provided a rare glimpse into how he perceives his own role within the development cycle of one of the globe's most hyped games.
Strauss Zelnick's vision enlightens us on a management style that prioritizes artistic liberty over personal engagement. Through delegating the task of bringing its vision to life to Rockstar Games and concentrating on putting together the best talent in the world, Zelnick places Take-Two on track for sustained success, without having to put down his controller. To quote, his job is not to play the game, but to assist in constructing the proper team to do so.
Also Read: Strauss Zelnick discusses GTA 6 delay in CNBC interview, reaffirms confidence in new date