The Legacy of id Software: A Priceless Gem or Just Another Asset?

Back in 1984, Costco was just starting out with its first warehouse stores on the west coast of the U.S. When they decided to experiment with a hot dog cart outside their San Diego location, little did they know it would become a beloved staple. Selling Hebrew National hot dogs with a drink for a mere $1.50 (approx. Rs 420), the cart turned into Cafe 150, named after the price combo. Fast forward to today, and Costco sold a whopping 245 million hot dogs last year. Even when the CEO in the 2010s complained about the low price, founder Jim Sinegal firmly insisted that raising the price was not an option. The hot dog has remained at $1.50 (approx. Rs 420) ever since.

Now, let’s rewind to 1992, when a band of young developers, fresh out of their teenage years, founded id Software, a name that would revolutionize the gaming industry with the first-person shooter genre. Following their groundbreaking title, Doom, which arguably stands as one of the most significant video games ever created, they went on to develop Quake, which transformed 3D gaming. These titles are not just games; they’re milestones that shaped the landscape of video gaming.

Decades later, the legacy of id Software is still alive, as newer developers at the studio make strides to create titles worthy of the iconic status. However, a recent shake-up at Microsoft resulted in the dismissal of 136 developers from id Software, a move described by art veteran Derek Best as “nuking a team into the dirt.” This decision came just as the studio’s latest game launched and topped the banners on Xbox.com, but surprisingly, neither id Software nor Doom was mentioned in the executive announcements.

What does this say about a corporation that seems to overlook its own heritage? The Doom series has raked in hundreds of millions, but its legacy extends far beyond revenue. Countless mods, maps, and even new games continue to emerge from the original’s framework, influencing today’s game developers who remember their first experiences with the Super Shotgun. The game’s intense levels, pulsating soundtrack, and thrilling gameplay were revolutionary and have left a lasting mark on the gaming world.

Then there’s the id Tech engine, which has evolved into one of the most advanced game engines available, allowing for breathtaking gameplay experiences. It has also fostered numerous careers due to its open-source nature, with indie games thriving on its powerful framework. For any visionary leader in the gaming industry, id Software’s technology should be celebrated as a treasure, not just viewed through a profit lens.

Amidst all this, Microsoft has stated that Xbox is “not healthy,” leading to tough business decisions. But can such choices be justified when it risks harming an irreplaceable legacy? Last year, Costco reported revenues of $275 (approx. Rs 76,450) billion—just $6 (approx. Rs 1,670) billion short of Microsoft—yet Costco has never prioritized shareholder profits above all else. Their former CEO made headlines for committing to keeping the hot dog price stable, illustrating their focus on delivering value to customers.

So, how does a company with such a rich legacy treat the very studio that has defined its gaming identity? In a recent statement, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma celebrated the many beloved franchises under the Xbox banner but failed to mention id Software. This raises questions about the respect given to a studio that has contributed immensely to gaming culture.

As we mark 35 years of id Software, it becomes clearer that their legacy deserves more than just being viewed as another asset on a balance sheet. It is a treasure trove of innovation and creativity that has impacted both gamers and game developers alike. Here’s hoping that the future holds a greater appreciation for what id Software represents in the realm of gaming.

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