Former Annapurna Interactive Team Launches Private Division

Summary

Former Annapurna Interactive employees have acquired the operational reins of Private Division, a studio previously under Take-Two Interactive's ownership. The acquisition follows a significant exodus of Annapurna Interactive staff in September 2024, stemming from failed negotiations with Annapurna Pictures CEO Megan Ellison.

Annapurna Interactive, prior to its upheaval, published several critically acclaimed games, including Stray, Kentucky Route Zero, and What Remains of Edith Finch.

Private Division, established in 2017, was sold by Take-Two Interactive in November 2024. The buyer, initially undisclosed, resulted in widespread layoffs.

According to journalist Jason Schreier, the acquiring entity is reportedly Haveli Investments, an Austin-based private equity firm. Haveli and the former Annapurna staff have reportedly partnered to manage Private Division's remaining titles, including Tales of the Shire (slated for March 2025), the Kerbal Space Program franchise, and an unannounced Game Freak project.

Private Division's Transition Reflects Industry Trends

The mass departure of Annapurna Interactive employees in September 2024 followed a breakdown in negotiations with CEO Megan Ellison. While Haveli's acquisition retained approximately twenty Private Division employees, further layoffs are anticipated to accommodate the incoming Annapurna team. The new studio's name, future direction, and IP strategy remain undefined.

This merger of Annapurna and Private Division personnel mirrors broader industry trends. Recent years have witnessed substantial layoffs and studio closures, reflecting shifting investor priorities and risk aversion within the gaming sector. The integration of two groups of displaced gaming professionals symbolizes the current competitive landscape, characterized by cost-cutting measures and a focus on lower-risk ventures.