id Software, the venerable studio behind iconic franchises like Doom, Wolfenstein, and Quake, has reportedly seen its workforce drastically reduced in the wake of Microsoft's extensive layoffs across its gaming division. Sources indicate that more than 90 of the studio's approximately 200 employees have been let go, a significant cut that has raised concerns about the future of its game development, particularly its proprietary engine technology.
Multiple anonymous sources speaking to Game Developer and reports from former Bethesda project lead Jeff Gardiner on X suggest the scale of the layoffs at id Software is substantial, with figures pointing to around 95 individuals affected. Scott Miller, founder of Apogee/3D Realms and an early collaborator with id Software, even stated that he received insider information suggesting that "most (if not all) coders" at the company were among those laid off. This claim is particularly striking given id Software's long-standing reputation as a pioneer in game technology, responsible for groundbreaking technical achievements that shaped genres like the first-person shooter with titles like Wolfenstein (1992), Doom (1993), and Quake (1996).
The studio has continued to maintain its in-house engine expertise, with the recent Doom series entries utilizing id Tech 8, distinguishing them from many modern AAA games that rely on external engines like Unreal. The reported cutting of these technical specialists, coupled with the studio's recent successes, has led to confusion regarding Microsoft's strategic direction.
Despite the cuts, id Software recently launched Doom: The Dark Ages, which saw a notable player reception, attracting 3 million players in its first week. This launch was bolstered by its inclusion on Xbox Game Pass, marking a significant milestone for the studio. However, an internal email from Bethesda president Jill Braff, whose division oversees id Software, suggested a strategic shift. Braff stated that the company is moving towards a model that prioritizes its strongest franchises and a content roadmap that best serves players. This pivot, combined with the significant headcount reduction at id Software, could indicate a potential change in the studio's role, possibly shifting towards a more supportive function for other Bethesda titles.
John Romero, a co-founder of id Software, acknowledged the impact of the layoffs, sharing a message of support for those affected. He praised the current id Software team for their dedication to advancing the legacy of its core franchises, noting the care and skill evident in recent titles. The news has prompted many fans to express a desire for id Software to have followed a different path, perhaps achieving independence similar to studios like Double Fine, rather than facing an uncertain future as a potential support studio within a larger conglomerate.