Take-Two Interactive Software has officially put an end to any takeover speculation by announcing during its review of strategic alternatives that it will remain independent.

The publisher said that this move would be in the best interests of their shareholders and that the decision had been made after numerous discussions with various interested parties.

"Take-Two's board of directors and management have a clear mandate from stockholders to maximise value," said Strauss Zelnick, chairman of Take-Two Interactive according to gamesindustry.biz.

"We are strongly positioned creatively, financially and competitively to benefit from the opportunities we see in the fastest growing segment of the entertainment industry."

CEO Ben Feder was similarly optimistic about the company's long term prospects, despite seeing Take-Two's share value drop 5.1% in the wake of EA's failed acquisition bid.

"Take-Two's recent performance demonstrates our potential to create value for the long term." Feder explained. "We have delivered solid financial results and expanded our portfolio of leading titles, which includes the powerful Grand Theft Auto franchise, as well as 15 other wholly owned brands with sales of more than 1 million units each.