Following the recent wave of Xbox layoffs, id Software has addressed the impact on its workforce, confirming that the studio remains at a size comparable to its headcount during the development of DOOM (2016). The Texas-based developer saw a total of 136 personnel reductions, comprised of 96 onsite employees and 40 remote workers.

Quick Facts

  • Total Reductions: 136 employees (96 onsite, 40 remote).
  • Current Status: Studio size is now equivalent to the team size during the production of DOOM (2016).
  • Studio Philosophy: Management confirmed they will maintain their "flat studio" approach where everyone is involved in the creation process.
  • Upcoming Presence: id Software will attend QuakeCon in Grapevine, Texas, from August 6 to 9.

In a statement released via social media, the developer thanked fans for their support and clarified that while the cuts were significant, they were spread across various teams. "We still have the crew we need to build the games and tech we're known for," the message read. The studio emphasized that it intends to continue its 35-year legacy of building high-quality titles while adhering to its established philosophy of a flat organizational structure.

Reflections from Co-Founders

The layoffs have drawn reactions from figures central to the studio’s history. John Carmack expressed sadness regarding the news, noting that from his perspective, id Software may have been viewed as a "marginal business" within the broader scope of Microsoft's operations. He further suggested that the financial performance of other properties, such as Minecraft, has historically supported various studios under the corporate umbrella.

John Romero, who also stepped away from the studio after years of involvement, shared his perspective on the difficulty of the situation. "I know what it feels like to leave id while id goes on," Romero said. "The people at id have done a great job moving that legacy forward. DOOM, Quake, and Wolfenstein are not easy names to carry on, especially in today’s industry."

Despite the changes, the studio remains focused on its immediate future, including the upcoming QuakeCon event. The event, scheduled for August 6–9 in Grapevine, Texas, will feature original co-founders John Carmack, John Romero, Tom Hall, and Adrian Carmack as special guests.