Studio's Game Arm Departs, Future Uncertain

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

A significant shakeup has hit Annapurna Interactive, the video game publisher behind acclaimed titles like Stray and What Remains of Edith Finch. The entire staff has resigned following unsuccessful negotiations with parent company Annapurna Pictures.

The Fallout at Annapurna Interactive

The mass resignation, reportedly involving over 20 employees, stemmed from an attempt by the Interactive division, led by then-president Nathan Gary, to become an independent entity. These efforts ultimately failed, leading to the widespread departure.

According to Bloomberg, Gary confirmed the collective resignation of all 25 team members, stating the decision was "one of the hardest we have ever had to make."

Annapurna Pictures' Megan Ellison has assured partners of their continued commitment to existing projects and expansion within interactive entertainment, stating a goal of "a more integrated approach to linear and interactive storytelling."

Uncertainty for Indie Developers

The situation leaves numerous indie developers who partnered with Annapurna in a precarious position, uncertain about the future of their projects and contractual obligations. Many are actively seeking clarification on the status of their agreements.

Remedy Entertainment, whose Control 2 received partial funding from Annapurna Interactive, clarified via its communications director, Thomas Puha, on Twitter (X), that their deal is with Annapurna Pictures and that they are self-publishing Control 2.

A New Leadership, Uncertain Future

Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as its new president. Sources, speaking anonymously to Bloomberg, indicate Sanchez aims to uphold existing contracts and fill the vacant positions.

This follows a company restructuring announced over a week prior, which saw the departure of Gary, and co-heads Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella. For more details on this reorganization, see our related article.