Annapurna's Entire Game Division Quits, Leaving Future Uncertain

The entire Annapurna Interactive team, the video game division of Annapurna Pictures, has resigned following a dispute with Megan Ellison. This mass exodus leaves the future of the publishing arm uncertain.

Annapurna Interactive's Staff Resignation After Failed Negotiations

The publisher behind successful titles like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch is facing a significant upheaval. Over 20 employees, including the entire staff, resigned after negotiations to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity failed.

Former president Nathan Gary led the effort for independence. Following the breakdown of negotiations, the team issued a joint statement expressing the difficult nature of their decision. Bloomberg reported that Gary confirmed the collective resignation of all 25 team members.

Annapurna Pictures, under Megan Ellison, has assured partners that ongoing projects will continue to receive support and that they remain committed to interactive entertainment. However, the situation leaves numerous indie developers who partnered with Annapurna in a precarious position, uncertain about the future of their agreements.

Remedy Entertainment, whose Control 2 received partial funding from Annapurna Interactive, clarified that their agreement is with Annapurna Pictures and that they are self-publishing Control 2.

Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, has been appointed as the new president of Annapurna Interactive. Sources suggest he's committed to fulfilling existing contracts and replacing departing staff. This follows a broader restructuring announced over a week prior, including the departure of former president Nathan Gary and co-heads Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella. The company's reorganization is detailed in a separate article.