Id software battles back: martin slams layoffs, promises ‘great games’ remain
The rumor mill has been churning, but id Software isn’t going down without a fight. Creative Director Hugo Martin delivered a forceful rebuttal to reports of a near-total collapse following a significant round of Xbox layoffs, insisting the studio is far from decimated and brimming with talent.
A staffing reset, not a demise
Microsoft’s ‘reset’ strategy, spearheaded by CEO Asha Sharma, has already resulted in 1,600 job cuts across its gaming divisions, and another 1,600 are slated for elimination later this fiscal year. Four studios have been shuttered, but Martin forcefully dismissed the narrative of impending doom for id Software, stating the team’s headcount has reverted to levels seen during the 2016 Doom revival.
‘We’re still making great games’
“There’s been reports that we’ve been ‘nerfed into the ground’ and ‘gutted’ and we have 50 people, and that’s not true,” Martin declared during a livestream playthrough of Doom: The Dark Ages DLC. “We’re the size we were when we made Doom 2016, and id Tech is very much alive and well.” He emphasized the continued presence of id Tech engineers in both Frankfurt and at MachineGames, highlighting the collaborative nature of the development process. The core Doom team remains operational, firmly positioned to continue pushing the boundaries of the franchise.
Commercial success fuels confidence
Martin further underscored the studio’s success with Doom: The Dark Ages, noting its commercial performance aligns with projections and bolstering morale. “The fact that we made a game that people like and is critical and commercially successful – like I said, it’s doing very well related to the forecast and stuff – that’s good for everyone, for the people at the studio, for the people who unfortunately we had to say goodbye to. I think that helps everyone and we really appreciate your support.”
Future projects remain under wraps
Despite the upheaval, id Software reportedly had several ambitious projects in the pipeline prior to the layoffs, including a John Wick-inspired original IP, a potential new Perfect Dark title, and a multiplayer/co-op Doom experience. While specifics remain confidential, rumors suggest a new Doom installment is already underway, spearheaded by the team at id Software. The Communications Workers of America union is currently negotiating an exit agreement with Microsoft, with dozens of staff protesting outside id Software’s Richardson offices.
Legacy endures
Co-founder John Romero offered his support to affected staff, emphasizing the studio’s enduring legacy. Carmack, while expressing sadness, questioned the financial success of recent titles. Ultimately, Martin’s message is clear: id Software isn’t just surviving, it's gearing up to deliver more exceptional experiences.