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Take-Two takes 49% more in revenue in fiscal 2011
Take-Two let out a hearty (but metaphorical) "Yee-haw" today, reporting a 49 percent rise in net revenue year-over-year for the fiscal year that ended March 31. Thanks to hits like Red Dead Redemption (8.5 million units shipped, the company announced today!) and its Undead Nightmare expansion, and the five-million-selling NBA 2K11, Take-Two brought in $1.14 billion in net revenue. Its net income rose to $48.5 million for the fiscal year, a welcome change from the previous year's $123 million loss. With that kind of money, Take-Two should be able to survive the losses from when Duke Nukem Forever doesn't actually come out. (Kidding, mostly.) The top earners for the fourth quarter included, in Take-Two's estimation, "NBA 2K11, Top Spin 4, Major League Baseball 2K11, Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete and Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare (standalone disc)." In addition, digitally distributed content accounted for 15 percent of net revenue in the quarter, driven by Red Dead Redemption, Borderlands, Grand Theft Auto and Civilization DLC.
NBA extends multi-year licensing agreements with 2K and EA Sports
Six years ago, the NBA counted five major game makers -- including Sony, Midway and Atari -- in its non-exclusive circle of licensees. That number has since dwindled to two, as the league today re-upped its multi-year licensing agreements with its longstanding (and still standing) video game partners, Take-Two Interactive and Electronic Arts. Unsurprisingly, through its 2K Sports label, Take-Two will continue to make use of its NBA license in its successful NBA 2K franchise. The most recent release, NBA 2K11, has now sold more than five million units since its October 2010 debut, according to the publisher. The next iteration, NBA 2K12, is expected to be announced at E3. Assuming 2K12 is on track to be released this fall (lockout or game on), it would mark a second straight year that 2K Sports' simulation series entered the market with no direct competition (Madden style!). EA, the NBA's oldest video game partner, permanently benched NBA Elite 11 last November after the company determined, "It was just going to be a bad game." EA Sports' next basketball sim won't be released until Fall 2012, with a download-only NBA Jam sequel subbing in this October. Additionally, Take-Two is expected to "explore and develop new NBA licensed gaming opportunities, including online on social media platforms," according to a press announcement. Counting itself as "the No. 1 U.S. sports league on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube," the NBA, through its NBA Digital label, has already released NBA Legends (developed by Lionside) and NBA Dynasty (in partnership with Disney-owned Playdom) on Facebook this year. [Pictured: Bulls versus Lakers and the NBA Playoffs (EA, 1991); source: Hoopedia]
NBA 2K11 is 2K Sports' best-selling game ever
During an investor call today, Take-Two revealed just how nice a season NBA 2K11 has had without competition from an EA Sports' basketball sim. Hint: Really nice. "NBA 2K11 has now sold in nearly 4 million units since launching in early October," Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick said during the call, "and has become the best-selling title in the history of both our basketball franchise and 2K Sports." ("Sold in," of course, refers to shipments to retailers, rather than actual purchases by consumers.) It would be irresponsible to attribute all of the game's success to the fact that EA canceled NBA Elite 11, leaving NBA 2K11 (pretty much) unopposed in the market. 2K11 was quite well-received by critics on its own. But it would be even more irresponsible to pretend the cancellation had nothing to do with the increase in 2K11 sales.
Take-Two records $1.16 billion in revenue over last fiscal year, regains profitability
Take-Two Interactive, publisher of this year's Red Dead Redemption and Civilization V, among others, today announced net revenue earnings of $1.16 billion for the 12 months ending October 31, 2010, a 65-percent growth over the previous fiscal year's revenues. In all, after operating expenses and taxes, Take-Two earned $42.6 million in profit for the year -- quite a turnaround from the $140.5 million hole (read: net loss) it dug itself last fiscal year. Software sales slump, what now? In its fourth quarter alone (August–October), Take-Two brought in $373.7 million in revenue, roughly 32 percent more than in the same period in 2009, working out to $53.8 million in income for the close-out quarter. "We have achieved our goal of profitability in a year without a new release of Grand Theft Auto," boasted soon to be ex-CEO Ben Feder, citing Red Dead Redemption and NBA 2K11, "as well as strong sales of catalog titles and digitally-delivered content," as key to the publisher's success. Take-Two is currently in the midst of a five-month "transition period," having changed its fiscal calendar to now begin April 1 (instead of Nov. 1). Chairman Strauss Zelnick said the company will be focused on "newer areas of the interactive entertainment business, such as digitally-delivered content and the expanding Asian and Latin American markets" through the end of 2010.
October NPD: NBA 2K11 tops charts, Xbox 360 'best selling console in 2010'
Here is the second edition of the revised (and less informative) monthly NPD report. With the market research group no longer sharing specific hardware figures, it's noteworthy to point out that only Microsoft has (as of writing) released concrete sales numbers. Major Nelson tweeted that Microsoft sold 325K Xbox 360s in October. Although the figure represents a 32-percent drop from the previous month, it was enough to secure Microsoft's spot as best-selling console of the month. Major Nelson also added that the Xbox 360 "is the best selling console in 2010 [with] 3.5 million" sold so far. Sony's response doesn't offer console sales numbers, but Patrick Seybold commented on increased momentum for the company's PlayStation Move motion controller. "The PS3 Move Bundle had a 15-percent increase in sales since launch last month, and we're working hard to keep the inventory up across the country to meet strong consumer demand." In addition, Seybold reminded us of the impending launch of Sony's big holiday game: "With next week's launch of the industry's most anticipated title, Gran Turismo 5, we're sure to carry the momentum through the holidays." Nintendo, as of the time of publishing, had not offered comment. Software sales jumped 6 percent year-over-year for the month to $605 million. The multiplatform release of NBA 2K11 helped propel it to the top of the charts, undoubtedly aided by EA Sports' cancellation of NBA Elite 11. Fallout, Medal of Honor and Fable all made strong debuts -- but Rock Band 3's 15th-place position in sales has us concerned. NPD analyst Anita Frazier did make a special note in the report, assuring us that "this game has the potential to perform well over the holidays." The top-ten software breakdown is posted after the break.
NBA 2K11 3D for PS3 launched as Best Buy timed exclusive today
Just when we thought we were getting out from under the spectre of exclusive 3D releases on Blu-ray we're hit with one from a very unexpected source in the form of an exclusive NBA 2K11 3D for PS3 SKU, available only at Best Buy. The only apparent difference in this version is its support for stereoscopic 3DTVs (not the first sports title this year to do it, Madden 2011 features anaglyph 3D on any TV with a code, but really, why try?), but for now you won't be able to get it anywhere else. Already have the game or plan on pick it up elsewhere? Expect a software update adding 3D to all PS3 versions (no cross-platform 3D for the Xbox 360 version on this one, leave that to Call of Duty: Black Ops and Crysis) in January according to Ron from 2KSports, for now enjoy the new trailer for the 3D version (embedded) and expect a post on the official PlayStation Blog.
NBA 2K11 review: Long live His Airness
As with any well-rounded basketball team, NBA 2K11's success hinges on collaboration. It's a pretty corny analogy, but it's the truth: a combination of realistic gameplay, improved ball handling techniques and challenging AI go a long way toward making NBA 2K11 the best basketball game around. Lack of quality competition probably doesn't hurt, either. %Gallery-99635%
NBA 2K11 trailer puts 'Jordan' on every jersey
Have you thought about all the opportunities you'll have to pervert Jordan's legacy in NBA 2K11? This new trailer will give you some good ideas.
NBA 2K11 demo dribbles out to PSN, XBLM
Attention, virtual ballers, the NBA 2K11 demo is out today on both the PlayStation Store (once it updates) and Xbox Live Marketplace (right now!). The demo features the NBA 2010 Finals match-up between the Lakers and Celtics, which means you won't be experiencing any Michael Jordan moments. You want MJ, you gotta pay. Oh, and don't break out those ice cream cones just yet, PS3 players, as the demo does not feature Move support (you'll have to pay for that, too -- it's in the retail version).
NBA 2K11 trailer shows us how to be proper ballers
Even the greatest basketballers had to start somewhere -- Jordan was perfecting his game in the back yard long before he was dunking on guys' faces in prime time. That's why we'd like to present you with the tutorial trailer for NBA 2K11 we've got embedded past the break. It's a pretty comprehensive guide to becoming a hardwood hero ... at least on the virtual court. If you wanna be a better real-life basketballer, we don't know what to tell you. Eat your Wheaties, maybe?
Preview: NBA 2K11's Jordan Challenge mode
NBA 2K11 has everything to lose this year. As the top-selling basketball title of last year, and with EA rebuilding and re-branding its own basketball experience as NBA Elite 11, you might think 2K Games could probably coast for the next few years, sit back and count the dough. But if there's one phrase I've heard plenty of times from 2K reps during my visit, it's "The Pepsi Challenge." 2K is putting its money where its mouth is, investing in real improvements to its yearly franchise. The first (and perhaps most important to longtime fans) is the online play. Right away I threw the question at them (it's a hot topic in the community and something I bring up every time I talk to these guys -- we've gotta be sure!): "Are you going to fix the online experience this year?" I was told it was a big focus for 2K -- the other, obviously, being Michael Jordan. %Gallery-99635%
NBA 2K11 devs drop 'approximately 30 positions'
Take-Two Interactive sports game developer Visual Concepts recently let go of 30 employees, according to a statement issued by the publisher. VP of corporate communications and public affairs at Take-Two Alan Lewis told Industry Gamers, "In order to properly align its resources with its current and future goals, and to continue to develop games as efficiently as possible, 2K Sports has eliminated approximately 30 positions at its Visual Concepts studio." When contacted by Joystiq, Take-Two refused to provide further information. The next game due from Visual Concepts is NBA 2K11 on October 5, which is said to be unaffected by the layoffs. "These reductions will not affect 2K Sports' ability to create and deliver AAA titles, including its upcoming release of NBA 2K11," the statement from Take-Two claims. As always, we wish those affected the best in the future.
2K Sports dishes on NBA 2K11's 'Jordan Challenge'
"It was tough to narrow down the list to just ten, but we wanted to pick games and moments that were career-defining and that translated well to replicating through a video game," explained 2K marketing director SportsChris Snyder of NBA 2K11's new "Jordan Challenge" mode -- a series of recreations of some of Michael Jordan's most famous moments on the hardwood. As the cover athlete, Jordan has been involved with the game's development to some extent. "Michael has been great with feedback," Snyder told us. "When he talks we are definitely all ears." While Jordan did not personally assemble the list of games featured in the Jordan Challenge, "he also didn't shut it down when we sent it in for approval," Snyder said. "So I like to think we picked a good list." When asked whether Jordan's famous teammates, such as Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, would be included in the game, Snyder promised, "fans will be pleased with who they see on the court." Outside of the Jordan Challenge mode, players can use the "Classic Bulls team," which 2K confirmed would be selectable right from the beginning. (Snyder couldn't say whether players would be able to use this team online.) Finally, for those of you lamenting the absence of perhaps Jordan's greatest basketball accomplishment -- defeating the Monstars in the epic Space Jam showdown -- Snyder offers this: "Bugs Bunny's price was too high." We guess the price of carrots must be on the rise. %Gallery-96342%
NBA 2K11's full list of 'Jordan Challenges'
Earlier today, we were told of the "Jordan Challenges" in NBA 2K11, a series of highlight games from the illustrious career of the game's cover athlete, Michael Jordan. There will be a total of 10 different challenge games players will need to compete in and 2K Sports was kind enough to bestow upon us the full list, which you can take a look at after the break.%Gallery-98029%
NBA 2K11 players to take on 'The Jordan Challenge'
2K Sports has announced an intriguing, star-powered mode for its upcoming pro hoops title, NBA 2K11: "The Jordan Challenge." As your brain probably discerned upon reading the words "hoops" and "Jordan" in the same sentence, the mode will place you in the comically large sneakers of Michael Jordan and task you with recreating 10 of the biggest games in the legendary athlete's career. These recreations must be perfect, or the time-traveling Jordan might just create a paradox, simultaneously destroying all matter at every point of time. Only a handful of games have been revealed so far: There's his 69-point bout against the Cavaliers in March of 1990, his self-described best game. There's also his flu-ridden performance against the Utah Jazz in the 1997 NBA Finals. And, of course, the collection wouldn't be complete without his climactic match-up against the Monstars, in which his physics-defying, game-winning slam dunk guaranteed the freedom of his animated teammates, and led to his recovery of the basketball skills of fellow ballers Barkley, Ewing, Bogues, Johnson and Bradley.
Lebron James' move to the Miami Heat and how it'll affect NBA 2K11
Yesterday, it seemed like the only thing people could talk about on TV, the radio and Twitter was Lebron James. For the uninitiated, he's one of the greatest basketball stars playing today. Wrapping up a lengthy stay in Cleveland with the Cavaliers -- where he's been for the past seven years, since age 18 -- James had finally become a free agent, able to go wherever he wished. As we learned last night, he chose to join the Miami Heat. With 2K Sports set to launch the latest iteration in its NBA 2K series, NBA 2K11, on October 5, we got in touch with Chris Snyder, director of marketing for the label, to get his thoughts on the situation. While he admitted that 2K Sports was "not at all" worried about the recent events surrounding James stealing the spotlight from Michael Jordan's signing as this year's cover star, he did admit that James and the teams affected by his decision haven't had their stats finalized in the game just yet. "It's too early to tell, as the Heat have to fill out the rest of the roster," Snyder said. "The Heat definitely will be improved, and the Cavs will definitely take a hit, but we need to see where everyone else lands before we can determine who is the number one ranked team." (Sports experts currently predict a Celtics-Heat Eastern Conference showdown for the foreseeable future.) Finally, 2K Sports offered us a lone screenshot (above, click to enlarge) which provides us with our first glimpse of James in a Heat uniform. We know it's painful to see, Cleveland -- but it's all a part of moving on.
The Michael Jordan NBA 2K11 cover
2K Sports calls it the "Greatest Cover of All Time" -- but, you know, it's not even the greatest Michael Jordan cover of all time. Five words: Chaos. In. The. Windy. City. (Click the image for a better look at Jordan's latest comeback.)
Preview: NBA 2K11
There's a lot riding on NBA 2K11. Not only did 2K Games secure Michael Jordan -- a huge get -- but with EA looking to revitalize its basketball game with NBA Elite 11, there's more pressure on the NBA2K franchise than ever before. Being the top-selling basketball game across all platforms last year doesn't mean that NBA 2K11 can secure Jordan and then "rest on its laurels and call it a day," a 2K rep told me. %Gallery-96342%
Confirmed: Michael Jordan is NBA 2K11 cover athlete
As first outed by ESPN last week, basketball hall of famer Michael Jordan is coming out of retirement again, this time to feature on the cover of 2K Sports' NBA 2K11. Jason Argent, the label's VP of marketing, confirmed the deal to CNBC today, saying that, "Actually getting this done is the most ridiculous win of all-time." The original ESPN report noted that Jordan -- and even some of his former teammates -- would likely be playable in the game, but Argent had nothing to offer CNBC on that front, other than to say players can expect "some really good surprises." However, in the same article, Jordan is quoted in a statement as saying, "I'm looking forward to getting back out on the court, virtually." We're guessing he doesn't mean we'll be seeing his likeness painted on the hardwood.
Rumor: Michael Jordan to grace the cover of NBA 2K11
You know that little dude doing a slam dunk on your shoes? That's not like some kind of corporate logo or something -- that's MIchael Jordan. Oh, you knew that? Well, thanks for ruining our opening paragraph. We guess we'll just get right to it then. Sources close to ESPN say the legend himself will grace the cover of NBA 2K11, marking the first time a retired player and team owner has appeared on the cover of an NBA 2K title. Jordan recently became majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. Further tantalizing "Jumpman 23" fans is the prospect of an in-game Mike, which ESPN posits is a strong possibility. This has supposedly lead to 2K pursuing other players from the past in an attempt to recreate some of Jordan's highlights in the game. With E3 fast approaching, we're certain we'll have confirmation one way or the other soon enough. We'll keep you posted. [Via Eurogamer]
