What id Software's Layoffs Mean for the Next Doom

A shrunken id Software leaning on MachineGames could reshape how Doom and other id projects get made, and it raises real questions about the long-term health of the id Tech engine.

A shrunken id Software leaning on MachineGames could reshape how Doom and other id projects get made, and it raises real questions about the long-term health of the id Tech engine.

Key points - Xbox plans to cut 3,200 jobs by the end of the current fiscal year as part of restructuring. - id Software lost roughly half its staff in layoffs over the summer. - Studio co-director Marty Stratton said id is "doing great" despite the cuts. - id Tech engine is reportedly managed by one person, per reports. - Stratton said id is working more closely with MachineGames than ever.

Timeline - Over the summer: Layoffs hit id Software, cutting roughly half its staff. - End of current fiscal year: Xbox plans to complete 3,200 job cuts across the company. - Earlier this year: id and MachineGames kicked off their closer collaboration, per Stratton. - Doom: The Dark Ages DLC preview event: Stratton comments publicly on the studio's state after layoffs.

FAQ

Q: Did id Software really lose half its staff? A: Yes. Studio co-director Marty Stratton confirmed about half of id's studio exited as part of Xbox's layoffs over the summer.

Q: Is id Software shutting down? A: No indication of that. Stratton says the studio is "doing great" and is working more closely with MachineGames, though reports say id Tech is managed by one person.

Q: What does this mean for the next Doom game? A: It's unclear. id is focusing on the Doom: The Dark Ages DLC and its MachineGames collaboration, but no specifics on the next Doom have been shared.