Annapurna Interactive's mass resignation leaves some game projects unaffected
Annapurna Interactive recently experienced a significant staff exodus, raising concerns about the future of its upcoming games. However, several high-profile titles appear to be continuing development without major disruption.
Several Annapurna Interactive Games Continue Development Despite Staff Resignation
Control 2, Wanderstop, and More Remain on Track
Following the mass resignation, developers have confirmed that some projects remain unaffected. Bloomberg News reported initial chaos as developers sought clarification on the future of their partnerships with Annapurna.
Remedy Entertainment swiftly clarified on Twitter (X) that its agreement for Control 2, including related rights, is with Annapurna Pictures, and that Remedy is self-publishing Control 2, ensuring its development proceeds independently.
Davey Wreden (creator of The Stanley Parable) and Team Ivy Road confirmed that Wanderstop development is progressing as planned, with Wreden expressing confidence in its imminent release. Team Ivy Road acknowledged the unexpected setback but reiterated their commitment to the project.
Matt Newell's Lushfoil Photography Sim, nearing completion, is also expected to remain unaffected. While acknowledging the loss of the Annapurna Interactive team, Newell pledged to provide regular updates.
Beethoven & Dinosaur, creators of The Artful Escape, also confirmed that their upcoming title, Mixtape, remains under development.
Uncertainty Remains for Other Projects
Conversely, the status of several other games, including No Code's Silent Hill: Downfall, Furcula's Morsels, Great Ape Games' The Lost Wild, Dinogod's Bounty Star, and Annapurna Interactive's internally developed Blade Runner 2033: Labyrinth, remains unclear, pending official statements from their respective developers.
Annapurna Pictures CEO Megan Ellison assured Bloomberg that supporting its development partners is a top priority during this transition. While the future of some projects is uncertain, many developers have expressed optimism about their ability to continue.
Annapurna Interactive's Entire Team Resigns, Ellison Pledges Continued Support
The mass resignation of Annapurna Interactive's 25-person team followed failed negotiations for studio independence, shortly after the departure of former president Nathan Gary. The team cited disagreements over the studio's future direction. Despite this, Annapurna Pictures' Megan Ellison reaffirmed her commitment to interactive entertainment.
For more details on this situation, please refer to our related article.