Microsoft’s Layoffs Hit id Software Hard: A Gaming Institution Shrinks to Support Size
The gaming world is buzzing with shock as Microsoft’s recent layoffs hammer down on id Software, the legendary studio behind the Doom series. It seems the consequences of the so-called “Xbox reset” initiated by CEO Asha Sharma are hitting harder than anyone anticipated. Reports now indicate that id Software is set to lose a total of 136 positions, according to WARN notices. This downsizing has been so severe that former VFX artist Derek Best described the studio’s new state as akin to a “support studio size,” a massive shift for a name that has been synonymous with PC gaming innovation.
In a heartfelt post on LinkedIn, Best expressed his disbelief regarding the scale of the layoffs. He noted how decades of expertise had been wiped from the studio overnight, leaving just one artist in the VFX department without any leadership or guidance. To add insult to injury, the lead programmer responsible for major advancements in the VFX pipeline was also let go. “Great job Microsoft,” he quipped sarcastically, highlighting how such drastic cuts can severely undermine a studio’s legacy.
This news hits particularly hard for fans and the industry alike, especially since the modern Doom series has been a standout in the single-player FPS genre. The story of id Software is woven deeply into the fabric of PC gaming history, making these cuts feel like a significant loss for the community.
In a follow-up comment, Best remarked that the “engine team was decimated,” hinting at a troubling future where Microsoft may shift away from investing in idTech, the studio’s homegrown engine that has been pivotal for countless iconic FPS titles. He speculated that the writing on the wall suggests a transition towards Unreal Engine, which further illustrates the troubling direction of id Software’s future.
Another voice from id Software, lead VFX artist Todd Boyce, joined the conversation, labeling the layoffs as a manifestation of “insanity and corporate greed.” He pointed out the disrespect shown to those who poured their hearts into creating the latest DLC and the industry-standard engine that has defined performance in gaming. The timing and method of these layoffs have left many questioning the future of the id brand and the job security of those still fortunate enough to be employed.
As the gaming community waits for a response from Bethesda regarding id Software’s trajectory, it’s clear that the impact of these layoffs will be felt for a long time to come.