Annapurna's Entire Game Division Quits, Leaving Future Uncertain

Annapurna Interactive Faces Uncertain Future After Mass Staff Resignation

A significant shakeup has hit Annapurna Interactive, the video game publishing arm of Annapurna Pictures. The entire staff, numbering over 20, has resigned following failed negotiations with parent company Annapurna Pictures.

The resignation, led by former president Nathan Gary, stemmed from an attempt to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. This proposal was reportedly rejected, leading to the mass exodus. Gary confirmed the collective resignation in a statement to Bloomberg, emphasizing the difficult nature of the decision.

Annapurna Pictures, under Megan Ellison, has assured partners that ongoing projects will continue to receive support and that the company remains committed to interactive entertainment. However, the situation leaves numerous indie developers in a precarious position, uncertain about the future of their partnerships and contracts.

Remedy Entertainment, involved in the development of Control 2 with Annapurna Interactive, clarified that their agreement is with Annapurna Pictures and that they are self-publishing Control 2.

Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as its new president. Sources indicate Sanchez aims to honor existing contracts and fill the vacant positions. This follows a broader restructuring announced over a week prior, including the departures of Gary, Deborah Mars, and Nathan Vella. The long-term impact of this upheaval on Annapurna Interactive and its partners remains to be seen.