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, reportedly over 20 employees, resigned following failed negotiations with parent company Annapurna Pictures.
The Resignation and its Aftermath
The mass exodus, led by former president Nathan Gary, stemmed from an attempt to establish Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity. When these negotiations faltered, the entire team chose to resign.
According to Bloomberg, Gary confirmed the collective resignation of all 25 team members, emphasizing the difficult nature of the decision. This leaves numerous indie developers who partnered with Annapurna in a precarious position, uncertain about the future of their projects and contractual obligations.
Annapurna Pictures' Megan Ellison has assured partners of their commitment to ongoing projects and continued expansion in interactive entertainment, stating a desire for more integrated storytelling across various media. However, the immediate impact on partnered games remains unclear.
Addressing Partner Concerns
Remedy Entertainment, a notable partner on Control 2, clarified the situation via its communications director, Thomas Puha. Puha confirmed that Remedy's agreement for Control 2, including related rights, is with Annapurna Pictures, and that Remedy is self-publishing the title.
Annapurna's Response and Reorganization
In response, Annapurna Interactive has appointed Hector Sanchez, a co-founder, as its new president. Sources indicate Sanchez aims to honor existing contracts and rebuild the team. This follows a broader restructuring announced over a week prior, also involving the departure of Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella.
The future of Annapurna Interactive remains uncertain, but the company’s commitment to its existing projects and partners, at least publicly, remains. The impact on the indie game development landscape, however, will likely be significant.
