Shocking news came from Annapurna Interactive as 25 designers of the company resigned creating chaos for one of the world's premier game publishers. A mass exodus has come hot on the heels of a bitter row with the company's owner, Megan Ellison.
This news may have far-reaching implications for the studio responsible for some of the most innovative games in recent times, including Stray and Solar Ash.
The controversy kicked off when President Nathan Gary and his executive staff attempted to divest the video game division to become a company unto itself. When Ellison suddenly withdrew from those negotiations, Gary and some other senior executives quit in a very public protest. Their moves triggered an exodus, almost 20 more team members quit in turn.
Nathan Gary, now Former President of the company said, "This was one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make. We did not take this action lightly".
Annapurna Interactive's owner has fought to reassure stakeholders that the company remains committed to its current developer and publishing partnerships.
"Our top priority is to support our partners and grow our presence in interactive storytelling," said Megan Ellison, Company’s Owner.
Current projects will be continued, according to the newly appointed President Hector Sanchez, who rejoined the company last month. Efforts are being made to find replacements for the staff that have since left.
The shocking departure of the design team has left developers in uncertainty. Many are hanging on for dear life as to whether their projects will run with the previously agreed contracts as promised. According to a notice from the company, the company emphasized that it will not default on any commitment and will continue handling all games in its current operation.
Annapurna Interactive was founded back in 2016 and has gained widespread acclaim due to its indie titles, such as Outer Wilds and Cocoon. The company recently revealed a major deal with Remedy Entertainment that will bring film and television versions of the hit franchises, including Control and Alan Wake. For now, Annapurna has remained solid amid the recent turmoil, its next move is anyone's guess.