Annapurna Game Division Departs, Shaping Uncertain Future
Annapurna Interactive's Entire Game Division Resigns, Casting Doubt on Future Projects
A mass resignation has shaken Annapurna Interactive, the video game publishing arm of Annapurna Pictures. The entire staff, reportedly over 20 employees, resigned following unsuccessful negotiations with parent company Annapurna Pictures.
The Fallout at Annapurna Interactive
The publisher, known for titles such as Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch, is facing an uncertain future. The staff, led by former president Nathan Gary, aimed to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. However, these negotiations failed, triggering the mass resignation.
According to Bloomberg, Gary confirmed the collective resignation of all 25 team members, stating the decision was difficult but necessary.
Annapurna Pictures' Megan Ellison has assured partners of continued support for existing projects and a commitment to interactive entertainment. She stated their intention to integrate storytelling across various platforms.
The implications are significant for indie developers partnered with Annapurna Interactive. Bloomberg reports that these developers are seeking clarification on the future of their agreements.
Remedy Entertainment, whose Control 2 received partial funding from Annapurna Interactive, clarified the situation via its communications director, Thomas Puha, on X (formerly Twitter). Puha confirmed that their agreement for Control 2, including related rights, is with Annapurna Pictures, and that Remedy is self-publishing the game.
Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as its new president. Anonymous sources told Bloomberg that Sanchez intends to honor existing contracts and replace departed staff. This follows a broader restructuring announced over a week prior, also including the departure of Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella.
For further details on Annapurna's restructuring, please refer to our related article.