Private Division Welcomes Former Annapurna Interactive Team

Summary

Former Annapurna Interactive employees have acquired Private Division, a studio previously owned by Take-Two Interactive. This follows the departure of most Annapurna Interactive staff in September 2024 after contract negotiations failed.

Following a significant restructuring in 2024, Annapurna Interactive, known for publishing acclaimed games like Stray, Kentucky Route Zero, and What Remains of Edith Finch, saw its staff depart.

Private Division, established in 2017, was sold by Take-Two Interactive in November 2024. The buyer remained anonymous, and most of Private Division's employees were let go.

According to Jason Schreier, Haveli Investments, an Austin-based private equity firm, is the undisclosed buyer. Haveli and the former Annapurna staff have reportedly partnered to manage Private Division's remaining projects, including Tales of the Shire (March 2025 release), Kerbal Space Program, and an unannounced Game Freak title.

Private Division's Transition Reflects Industry Trends

The majority of Annapurna Interactive's staff left after negotiations with CEO Megan Ellison broke down in September 2024. While Haveli's purchase of Private Division retained approximately twenty employees, some are expected to be replaced by the incoming Annapurna team. The new studio's name, future projects, and overall direction remain unannounced.

This merger mirrors the broader gaming industry's recent instability, marked by widespread layoffs and studio closures. The integration of two groups of displaced game developers reflects the industry's current climate, characterized by investor hesitancy towards large-scale, high-risk projects.