Electronic Arts CEO John Riccitiello isn’t just interested in GTA IV because it’s owned by acquisition target Take Two – he actually “loves” playing the game.

Speaking in a earning call with investors following EA’s announcement of its fiscal results last night, Riccitiello refused to give away any more information about EA's bid – but he took time out to heap further praise on Rockstar.

He said:

“On the Take Two, we are obviously contained pretty clearly in what we are allowed to talk about. I would tell you that our offer currently stands at $25.74 a share, roughly $2 billion; that our valuation took fully into account the success of GTA.

“We had anticipated a result much like has happened in the market and frankly it’s a spectacular game. I’m enjoying playing it and we can offer enormous congratulations to the Rock Star team for the work they’ve done on the game. It’s truly spectacular.

“In terms of next steps, we are continuing to work with the FTC. We don’t believe our proposal is in any way anti-competitive.

"The timing is in their hands and we are waiting on that. And to the extent that there are material new developments, we will of course let you know in due course. That’s really all I can comment on at the moment."