Studio Split Leaves Game's Fate Unknown

A major shakeup at Annapurna Interactive, the video game publishing arm of Annapurna Pictures, has left the future of the company uncertain. A disagreement with company owner Megan Ellison resulted in the entire staff resigning.

Annapurna Interactive Faces Mass Exodus Following Failed Negotiations

Significant Departures at Annapurna Interactive

The publisher behind acclaimed titles like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch has experienced a complete staff exodus. The mass resignation follows failed negotiations between employees and Annapurna Pictures.

Reports suggest that the staff, under former president Nathan Gary, attempted to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. However, these negotiations ultimately failed, leading to the departure of over 20 employees in the wake of Gary's resignation.

"The entire 25-person Annapurna Interactive team resigned," Gary confirmed to Bloomberg, adding that the decision was "difficult and not taken lightly."

Ellison, of Annapurna Pictures, assured partners of their continued commitment to existing projects and expansion within interactive entertainment. She stated to Bloomberg News that they are "seeking opportunities for a more integrated approach to linear and interactive storytelling across film, TV, gaming, and theater."

The impact of this mass resignation is substantial. Indie developers partnered with Annapurna now face uncertainty, struggling to establish new contacts and confirm the continuation of their agreements.

Remedy Entertainment, whose Control 2 received partial funding from Annapurna Interactive, addressed the situation via communications director Thomas Puha on Twitter (X): "Remedy's deal for Control 2, including Alan Wake and Control AV rights, is with Annapurna Pictures, and we are self-publishing Control 2."

Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as its new president. Anonymous sources cited by Bloomberg report that Sanchez has pledged to honor existing contracts and replace departing staff.

This follows a recent company restructuring announcement, with Sanchez taking the helm of the indie gaming division after the departures of Gary, Deborah Mars, and Nathan Vella.

For further details on Annapurna's restructuring, please refer to the linked article below.