Mass resignation: Why Annapurna Interactive's entire gaming team quit
Annapurna Interactive, a prominent video game publisher, has reportedly witnessed a mass resignation of its entire gaming staff. The unexpected move comes after failed negotiations to separate the gaming division from the parent company, Annapurna. This development has left several game developers in a state of uncertainty, considering Annapurna's significant role in providing funding, quality assurance, localization, and marketing for various projects.
Failed spin-off negotiations led to mass resignation
The mass resignation was triggered by unsuccessful talks between Megan Ellison, founder and CEO of Annapurna, and Nathan Gary, former president of Annapurna Interactive. The discussions aimed to establish the gaming unit as an independent entity. In a joint statement to Bloomberg on Thursday, Gary and the other employees announced, "All 25 members of the Annapurna Interactive team collectively resigned." They described it as one of the most challenging decisions they have ever had to make.
Annapurna Interactive's contribution to the gaming industry
Established in 2016, Annapurna Interactive has collaborated with several boutique game studios to produce critically acclaimed titles. These include Stray, a third-person cat adventure game set in a decaying cybercity, and other popular games like What Remains of Edith Finch, Outer Wilds, and Neon White. The company recently announced a partnership with Finnish gaming company Remedy Entertainment to adapt the successful Control and Alan Wake franchises for film and television.
Annapurna Interactive assures continued support for developers
Despite the mass resignation, Ellison has assured that Annapurna's gaming business will continue. She emphasized the company's commitment to supporting its developer and publishing partners during this transition. Hector Sanchez—one of the original co-founders of Annapurna Interactive—reassured developers in private conversations that the company would fulfill its contractual obligations. Sanchez recently rejoined Annapurna as president of interactive and new media after a five-year stint at Epic Games.
