The entire Annapurna Interactive team, the video game division of Annapurna Pictures, has resigned following a dispute with Megan Ellison, leaving the future of the publisher uncertain.
Mass Resignation at Annapurna Interactive
The unexpected departure of all staff, including President Nathan Gary, follows failed negotiations regarding the independence of Annapurna Interactive. The team aimed to establish the gaming branch as a separate entity, but these discussions ultimately collapsed.
According to Bloomberg, Gary confirmed the collective resignation of all 25 team members, emphasizing the difficult nature of the decision. The statement highlighted that this action wasn't taken lightly.
Annapurna Pictures, under Ellison's leadership, has assured partners of their commitment to ongoing projects and continued growth within interactive entertainment. Ellison stated their intention to integrate linear and interactive storytelling across various media.
The impact of this mass resignation extends to indie developers partnered with Annapurna Interactive, leaving them uncertain about the future of their projects and contractual obligations. Several developers are currently seeking clarification from Annapurna regarding existing agreements.
Remedy Entertainment, involved in the Annapurna-funded Control 2, clarified via its communications director, Thomas Puha, on Twitter (X), 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 the new president. Anonymous sources cited by Bloomberg indicate Sanchez's commitment to fulfilling existing contracts and replacing departed staff. This follows a previously announced restructuring, including the departures of Gary, Deborah Mars, and Nathan Vella.
Further details on Annapurna's reorganization can be found in a related article.
