I just don't agree at all that its an "easy business decision".
The whole idea that avoiding hard truths or saying things people don't want to hear as a means to avoid bad
PR is a huge misnomer and magnified way more in an industry with users such as these.
The obvious business decision would be to quell the fire and provide some logical and reasonable explanations. I have a pretty extensive history in dealing with the public and the most demanding customers always respond far better with a direct response vs. being ignored. Nothing fuels the fire of anger more than turning your back.
Its always the lack of response that gets the bad reviews, loudest critics and harshest demand for answers. This isn't a court of law but a court of public opinion and to ignore the questions raised in this thread is about as disingenuous and insulting as it gets.
Lets not forget 2K got to this level by doing it the right way and reaching out directly to the public with honesty and candor. Its no surprise that they're two steps away from hanging themselves after this sudden about face.