id Software Was Reportedly ‘Toying With’ Pitches for a New Perfect Dark, a John Wick-Inspired Game, and More Before Layoffs
Microsoft’s Xbox division laid off approximately half of id Software’s workforce this week, cutting 92 of the studio’s 185 full-time employees. The reductions were part of a broader “reset” for Xbox’s first-party operations that eliminated 3,200 positions across the division and resulted in the divestment of four studios.
Prior to the cuts, id Software had been exploring several game projects beyond its flagship DOOM franchise. The studio was internally considering pitches for a Perfect Dark game and a John Wick-inspired “Gun Fu” game, among other concepts, though these early-stage ideas were still in the exploratory phase when layoffs were announced.
The significant staff reduction has raised serious concerns about the studio’s ability to maintain existing projects and pursue new ventures. One laid-off employee told GamesBeat, “I’m not convinced there is a viable way forward. It feels like a bunch of knee-jerk responses.” id Software had recently completed work on DOOM: The Dark Ages DLC content before the workforce reduction took effect.
The layoffs represent a major disruption for one of gaming’s most storied developers, leaving questions about the studio’s strategic direction and capacity to advance its portfolio beyond established franchises.