Annapurna's Game Division Exits, Future Unclear

Annapurna Interactive Staff Resign After Failed Negotiations

Fallout at Annapurna Interactive

Annapurna Interactive, renowned for indie hits like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch, has faced a significant upheaval with the resignation of its entire staff. This mass exodus follows unsuccessful negotiations between the employees and Annapurna Pictures, the parent company.

The conflict arose from the staff's desire, led by former president Nathan Gary, to transform Annapurna Interactive into an independent entity. Despite their efforts, the negotiations collapsed, leading to the resignation of over 20 staff members shortly after Gary stepped down.

"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, stating, "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 reassured partners of their ongoing commitment to interactive entertainment. "We continue to look for opportunities to take a more integrated approach to linear and interactive storytelling across film and TV, gaming, and theater," Ellison told Bloomberg News.

The impact of these resignations extends to indie developers who had been working with Annapurna Interactive. According to Bloomberg, these developers are now seeking new contacts and clarity on whether Annapurna will continue to honor its agreements.

Remedy Entertainment, whose upcoming title Control 2 was partially funded by Annapurna Interactive, addressed the situation via Thomas Puha on Twitter (X). "Many of you are reaching out about the news around Annapurna," Puha stated. "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 the new president. Sanchez has assured partners that existing contracts will be honored and the departed staff will be replaced, according to Bloomberg's anonymous sources.

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 Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella.

For more details on Annapurna’s reorganization, please refer to our related article.