Annapurna's Entire Game Division Quits, Leaving Future Uncertain

Annapurna Interactive, the video game arm of Annapurna Pictures, faces an uncertain future after its entire staff resigned following a dispute with CEO Megan Ellison.

Mass Resignation at Annapurna Interactive

A Major Shakeup

The publisher behind acclaimed titles like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch is reeling from the departure of its entire team. This mass resignation followed unsuccessful negotiations between employees and Annapurna Pictures.

Reports indicate the staff, led by former president Nathan Gary, aimed to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. However, these negotiations failed, leading to over 20 employees resigning in the wake of Gary's departure.

"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. In a statement to Bloomberg News, she highlighted their focus on integrating storytelling across film, TV, gaming, and theater.

The impact of this mass exodus is significant. Indie developers partnered with Annapurna now face uncertainty, struggling to maintain contact and confirm the continuation of their agreements, according to Bloomberg.

Remedy Entertainment, whose Control 2 received partial funding from Annapurna Interactive, addressed the situation via communications director Thomas Puha on Twitter (X). Puha clarified that their deal for Control 2, including related rights, is with Annapurna Pictures, and Remedy is self-publishing Control 2.

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

This follows a broader restructuring announced over a week ago, including the departure of Gary, and co-heads Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella. Sanchez will now lead the indie gaming division.

For further details on Annapurna's reorganization, see our related article below!