id Software Producer Slams Current Climate, Says "You'll Never Get Another WoW or Morrowind"

id Software producer Andrew Willis has voiced strong criticism of the current state of the video game industry, particularly in the wake of recent Xbox layoffs that impacted his studio. Willis, who was involved in id Software's unionization efforts in 2025, stated on LinkedIn that the industry's future lies in the rise of developer-owned studios, a sentiment that contrasts with official statements from the company.

Willis believes that large publishers and monopolies have mismanaged the industry, leading to a focus on extracting existing value rather than fostering sustainable growth. "We've got to learn from the past, be fiscally responsible, and create an environment of sustainable growth," he wrote, adding that growth should be a byproduct of success, not a primary objective. He further elaborated that the current system, driven by executives who may not deeply understand game development, is detrimental to creating lasting franchises.

"The games industry must change if it is going to create art and franchises that have long term sustainable value," Willis stated. "Right now it feels like the monopolies that control it are simply trying to extract as much goodwill and value (that took decades to build) as they can with little concern for the diminishing returns it's leading to." He concluded that under these conditions, "You'll never get another WoW or Morrowind in the current climate."

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma's recent announcement of a "return to growth in 2027" was coupled with news of further layoffs, a move Willis sees as indicative of corporate priorities focused on shareholder satisfaction. He argued that the current management structures, often led by individuals without direct game development experience, lack the necessary understanding and humility to steward the industry effectively.

While the article acknowledges that creating successful developer-owned studios is challenging, citing Larian Studios as a rare example, it supports Willis's broader point about the industry's direction. The current climate, dominated by large corporations, may indeed stifle the conditions that allowed for the creation of groundbreaking, long-term franchises like World of Warcraft or Morrowind.