id Software co-director says the Doom developer is ‘working more closely with MachineGames than ever’ after Xbox laid off ‘about half of our studio’
id Software, the developer behind the iconic Doom franchise, has restructured following Xbox’s major layoffs earlier in 2026, which resulted in approximately half of the studio’s staff being cut. Studio co-director Marty Stratton stated that the company remains “doing great” and viable across all operational areas despite the significant reduction.
In response to the layoffs, id Software has strengthened its partnership with MachineGames, another acclaimed first-person shooter developer also owned by Xbox. Stratton emphasized that the studio is now “working more closely with MachineGames than ever,” indicating a collaborative approach to navigate the post-restructuring landscape. This consolidation appears strategic, leveraging complementary expertise between the two shooter specialists.
The restructuring has not disrupted ongoing projects. id Software continues development on Doom: The Dark Ages’ Revelations DLC, maintaining capability in both game development and technology departments. Stratton’s comments at the press event were framed as reassurance that the studio’s core strengths remain intact.
The deepened collaboration with MachineGames may help offset staffing losses through shared resources, technology, and development support. The arrangement suggests Microsoft is consolidating its first-person shooter expertise within Xbox’s portfolio while reaffirming its commitment to id Software’s ongoing projects.