What sense can we make of the madness at id Software?
id Software, the legendary developer behind Doom and Quake, faced devastating layoffs this week, cutting 136 employees—representing more than half its workforce. The cuts were part of Microsoft’s broader industry consolidation involving 1,600 immediate job losses, with an additional 1,600 Xbox employees facing uncertain futures.
The severity of the layoffs has raised serious concerns about id Software’s future direction and its ability to deliver major projects. Industry reports suggest that the studio’s proprietary id-tech engine—a technology central to its games—may be discontinued. More troublingly, speculation indicates that the next Doom installment could be developed using Unreal Engine instead, marking a significant departure from the studio’s established practices.
The layoffs have reduced id Software to the size of a small support studio, prompting fears that it could be absorbed into Call of Duty’s sprawling development operations. This consolidation represents a stark contrast to id Software’s legacy as an independent innovator in the gaming industry.
These developments underscore a particularly challenging period for the games industry, as major publishers continue aggressive downsizing and consolidation efforts. The impact on id Software’s storied franchises and technological independence remains a significant concern for fans and industry observers.