Annapurna Studios Loses Game Division, Future Projects Unknown

Annapurna Interactive's Entire Game Division Resigns, Casting Doubt on the Future

A mass resignation has shaken Annapurna Interactive, the video game publishing arm of Annapurna Pictures. The entire staff, reportedly over 20 employees, resigned following failed negotiations with parent company Annapurna Pictures.

The Fallout at Annapurna Interactive

The publisher behind acclaimed games like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch is facing an uncertain future. The resignation, led by former president Nathan Gary, stemmed from an attempt to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. These negotiations ultimately failed, resulting in the mass exodus.

According to Bloomberg, Gary confirmed the collective resignation of all 25 team members, stating it was a difficult but necessary decision. Annapurna Pictures' Megan Ellison has assured partners that existing projects will continue to receive support and that the company remains committed to interactive entertainment. She stated their intention to integrate linear and interactive storytelling across various media.

The situation leaves indie developers who partnered with Annapurna in a precarious position, uncertain about the future of their agreements. Remedy Entertainment, whose Control 2 was partially funded by Annapurna Interactive, clarified that their deal is with Annapurna Pictures and they are self-publishing Control 2.

Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as the new president. Anonymous sources suggest Sanchez is working to reassure partners that existing contracts will be honored and the departed staff will be replaced. This follows a previously announced restructuring, including the departure of several key figures.

The future of Annapurna Interactive remains unclear, but the company's commitment to its existing projects and its interactive entertainment endeavors has been publicly reaffirmed.