Evolve tasks one player with controlling a B-movie style monster while four others team-up as mercenaries with their own unique abilities, but Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick's special ability is deflecting the ire of consumers unhappy with the game's schedule of downloadable content.
More specifically, Zelnick didn't seem stunted in the least when it came to the "controversy" between consumers and the fact that something was made available for purchase in a way they didn't like. Here's the quote from a recent earnings call:
Yeah. You're right, Mike. There was some controversy start-up by an online post. And I guess, controversy, generally speaking, is a good thing. People can argue about the business model. I think we're delivering a fantastic title that's well versed with consumers who will pay for it. And all signs are extraordinarily positive. Never like to claim success before it's occurred. This looks to be a good news event. I'm going to leave it at that. Hopefully, in our next call, we'll have great news to report.
Evolve's premise remains focused primarily on the core video game consumer, particularly as it features guns, high-fidelity graphics, online multiplayer, and some unique character, environment, and weapon designs. I doubt that anyone looking to buy the game on February 10th for either PC, Xbox One, or PlayStation 4 would be surprised to find that DLC is also available.
Still, reports indicate that Zelnick was also quick to point out that his company has the unique distinction of working with Turtle Rock Studios on the "only game in history" winning both E3 and Gamescom "Game of Show" awards within the same year.
"The buzz [for Evolve] is massive," Zelnick said. "So we'll wait until consumers tell us what they think" and by that he means with their money of which Take-Two has now stored a mountain.
The publisher reports Non-GAAP net revenue growth to the tune of $954 Million, adding nearly $200 Million to that number compared to last year, though the obvious cause for this would have to be sales of Grand Theft Auto V (debuting Xbox One and PS4 versions at the tail end of 2014).
The publisher also points to NBA 2K15, WWE 2K15, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, and Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth as highlights. Perhaps Zelnick's reply appeared so steady and unconcerned with consumer opinion because of the position the company has set for the rest of this year. Here's what was prepared for the call:
With our world-class creative teams, robust development pipeline, cutting-edge technology and ample capital resources, Take-Two is superbly positioned to build on its solid foundation and continue to capitalize on this dynamic entertainment market.
Make sure to read our most recent hands-on with Evolve by clicking here, then head to our game page for more screenshots, impressions, video, and our review in the next week.
