Following the release of Doom: The Dark Ages, internal tension at id Software has reached a breaking point. Despite Bethesda previously labeling the title as the "biggest launch" in the studio’s history, the team has faced significant cuts, with a current employee describing the experience of being under Microsoft ownership as entirely devoid of benefits.

Speaking to Game Developer, an anonymous id Software staffer expressed frustration over the timing of recent layoffs, which occurred shortly after the launch of new Doom DLC. "They didn’t even wait to see if the product is successful before they got rid of the team," the source stated. "There are no benefits to being owned by Microsoft. In fact, they have destroyed immense amounts of value that I don’t even think that they’re aware of."

Quick Facts

  • Developer: id Software
  • Reported Layoffs: 136 developers
  • Studio Status: Currently the same size as during the development of Doom (2016)
  • Game Pass Impact: Doom: The Dark Ages reached three million players seven times faster than Doom Eternal, though this was measured in players rather than traditional sales.

A History of Acclaim Met With Cuts

The situation at id Software has drawn sharp criticism from industry figures, including Doom co-creator John Carmack, who noted that his previous support for Microsoft as a steward of the brand "isn't aging well." The layoffs have affected key personnel, with former principal VFX artist Derek Best describing the internal downsizing as "nuking a team into the dirt."

The irony of the situation is not lost on those remaining at the studio. While Xbox has officially identified Doom and Quake as core franchises for its future strategy, the studio responsible for delivering three critically acclaimed blockbusters over the last decade has seen its workforce slashed by 136 people. For many at the studio, the disconnect between business decisions and creative output is stark.

"It feels like we put a good product out and it just has zero effect on your longevity in the industry," the anonymous source added. Despite the widespread cuts and the resulting pressure on the workforce, recent reports indicate that early development has already begun on a new Doom project.

The Game Pass Factor

The business model surrounding Doom: The Dark Ages has also come under scrutiny. By launching the title day and date on Xbox Game Pass, the game’s traditional sales figures were likely impacted. While Bethesda boasted that the game reached three million players seven times faster than Doom Eternal, the shift in metrics away from direct sales—and the subsequent layoffs—has left developers feeling that the studio is being punished for decisions made outside of their control.