John Romero Preserves Id Software’s Rich History Amid Layoffs

In a recent turn of events, id Software is facing major changes as part of Microsoft’s restructuring plan, which will see around 3,200 employees laid off across various studios. This decision has raised eyebrows and sparked reactions from notable figures in the gaming world, including John Romero, co-founder of id Software and the mastermind behind the legendary Doom.

Romero took to a social media platform to express his support for those affected and shared some personal insights into the importance of preserving video game history. He mentioned that he has been actively involved in archiving crucial materials from id Software’s early days, which span from their beginnings at Softdisk up until August 6, 1996. According to him, these assets are significant, and many of them might not even be available to id Software anymore.

Having been part of id Software until his departure in 1996, Romero understands the challenges that the current workforce faces. He emphasized the need for ongoing preservation of the studio’s legacy, including its work, code, and the talented individuals behind the scenes. “I hope someone is continuing the work for the company’s future,” he mentioned, highlighting the importance of keeping the legacy alive.

Reports indicate that nearly half of the team at id Software has been impacted by the layoffs, affecting key departments such as the renowned tech team and numerous programmers. Michael Maynard, a senior gameplay systems programmer, voiced his concerns on LinkedIn, criticizing Microsoft’s decision to let go of such a large portion of the team, despite their hard work and dedication.

Romero’s personal archive is a rare gem in the gaming community. In contrast, other developers, like Tim Cain from Fallout, have faced orders to destroy their own development archives, showcasing the precarious nature of game preservation. Romero reflects on how the 20 million players of Doom’s shareware version were often mischaracterized as ‘pirates’ and emphasizes that the history of gaming is far more complicated than such labels suggest.

As the gaming industry evolves, the importance of preserving its rich history cannot be overstated. Thanks to figures like John Romero, we have a glimpse into the early days of gaming that shaped our current experiences.