Annapurna Interactive’s entire gaming team resigns following leadership dispute

Annapurna Interactive, known for publishing critically acclaimed indie games, has seen the resignation of its entire gaming division after a leadership conflict. According to a Bloomberg report, and later confirmed by IGN, Annapurna Interactive president Nathan Gary had been in discussions with company founder Megan Ellison to spin off the gaming division into its own company. However, after Ellison withdrew from the negotiations, Gary resigned, prompting nearly 30 other employees, including co-heads Deborah Mars and Nathan Vella, to follow suit.

In a joint statement to Bloomberg, the former staff said, “All 25 members of the Annapurna Interactive team collectively resigned. This was one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make and we did not take this action lightly.”

Despite the upheaval, Annapurna Interactive has announced that it remains committed to supporting its partners. Hector Sanchez, a former Epic Games executive, has taken over leadership following Gary’s departure. Sanchez has reportedly reassured developers that existing contracts will be honored and that the company is working to fill vacant roles through new hires and third-party partnerships.

Megan Ellison confirmed the company's plans, telling Bloomberg, “We’re committed to not only our existing slate of games but also expanding our presence in the interactive space."

Annapurna Interactive has published successful indie titles such as Stray, Neon White, and The Artful Escape. The company is also involved in collaborations with Alan Wake 2 developer Remedy Entertainment.