Major Layoffs Hit Id Software: A Troubling Time for the Doom Developer

In the latest shake-up from the gaming world, id Software, the studio behind the iconic Doom series, is facing significant changes following a wave of layoffs at Xbox. George Broussard, co-founder of Apogee and known for his work on Duke Nukem 3D, shared his thoughts on Twitter about the tough situation that many studios, including id, find themselves in.

As part of what Microsoft is calling “the most significant restructure in Xbox history,” 3,200 employees will be let go over the coming year, with five studios either being sold or transitioning into independent developers. Among them is Arkane, another Bethesda studio, which is still navigating its future. Reports indicate that id Software has been heavily impacted, losing around 95 team members, leaving them with approximately 105 remaining employees.

Broussard didn’t hold back in discussing the fallout from these layoffs. He pointed out that major segments of the studio, including the Quake Champions team and various programming roles, have been wiped out. He noted, “It seems like all they left was leadership and art/design. I think Xbox forgot Quakecon is next month,” highlighting the precarious state of the studio.

While some may claim that the layoffs at Microsoft weren’t as severe as they could have been, Broussard’s insights paint a different picture. With about half of id Software’s workforce affected, he expressed concern that the studio has now become primarily a support team for Bethesda and other developers, stating, “It really does sound as if id is now a support team.” He even suggested that the future of their renowned idTech engine could be in jeopardy.

On a broader scale, Broussard commented on the studios that Microsoft has let go. He noted that while retaining independence may look good for Microsoft from a public relations standpoint, the reality is that these studios now face the daunting task of securing their own funding and deals. “Yes, they have a second chance, but more layoffs may simply be deferred,” he warned, emphasizing the ongoing stress employees are likely to face.

The gaming community is now left to wonder what lies ahead for id Software and its storied legacy. With new challenges on the horizon, the fate of one of gaming’s most beloved studios hangs in the balance.