Annapurna's Game Division Exits, Future Unclear

Annapurna Interactive Staff Resign After Failed Negotiations

Fallout at Annapurna Interactive

Annapurna Interactive, renowned for publishing indie gems like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch, has faced a significant upheaval with the mass resignation of its entire staff. This dramatic exit follows a breakdown in negotiations between the employees and their parent company, Annapurna Pictures.

The conflict reportedly stemmed from the staff's desire, led by then-president Nathan Gary, to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. However, these discussions collapsed, leading to the resignation of over 20 staff members shortly after Gary's departure.

"All 25 members of the Annapurna Interactive team collectively resigned," Gary confirmed to Bloomberg. The team's joint statement emphasized the gravity of their decision, noting, "This was one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make and we did not take this action lightly."

In response, Megan Ellison of Annapurna Pictures expressed continued commitment to their partners, stating to Bloomberg News, "We continue to look for opportunities to take a more integrated approach to linear and interactive storytelling across film and TV, gaming, and theater."

The repercussions of this mass exodus are significant, particularly for indie developers who had partnered with Annapurna. These developers are now navigating uncertainty, trying to establish new contacts and confirm whether Annapurna will uphold its existing agreements.

Remedy Entertainment, whose upcoming title Control 2 was partially funded by Annapurna Interactive, has addressed the situation. Thomas Puha, the company's communications director, took to Twitter (X) to clarify, "Many of you are reaching out about the news around Annapurna. Thank you for your care! Remedy’s deal for Control 2, including Alan Wake and Control AV rights, is with Annapurna Pictures, and we are self-publishing Control 2."

In the wake of these resignations, Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as its new president. According to anonymous sources cited by Bloomberg, Sanchez has reassured partners that the company will honor existing contracts and work to replace the departed staff.

Just over a week ago, Annapurna announced a restructuring of its gaming operations. Sanchez will now lead the indie gaming department, following the exit of former president Nathan Gary and co-heads of the indie division, Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella.

For more insights into Annapurna's reorganization, explore our detailed article below!