Microsoft’s ongoing restructuring efforts have reached one of its most legendary first-party studios, with reports indicating that id Software has seen approximately 50% of its staff laid off. This significant reduction is part of a larger wave affecting roughly 3,200 employees across Xbox and Microsoft Gaming through FY2027, with about 1,600 cuts already executed.
The scale of the cuts at id Software
According to industry insiders and employee posts on social media, the layoffs have heavily impacted the technology team responsible for maintaining and evolving the id Tech engine. Senior programmer Michael Maynard, who spent 21 years at the studio working on titles ranging from RAGE through DOOM: The Dark Ages, confirmed via LinkedIn that he was among those let go.
Maynard expressed disappointment in the decision, noting that despite creating what many consider “arguably THE BEST first person engine technology in the industry,” Microsoft deemed half the team unnecessary. This suggests a strategic shift away from internal engine development or a consolidation of resources elsewhere within the Xbox division.
What this means for DOOM and id Tech
The timing is particularly jarring, as DOOM: The Dark Ages continues to receive support, including a new expansion released today. With half the studio gone, questions remain about how id Software will sustain development on current projects or future entries in the franchise.
For Windows gamers and developers, this also raises concerns about the id Tech engine. Previously seen as a potential competitor to Unreal Engine within Microsoft’s ecosystem, its future is now uncertain. Some analysts had hoped for id Tech to be opened up with a royalty model similar to Epic Games’ approach, but these cuts suggest that strategy may have been abandoned.
Broader implications for Xbox
This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader effort to streamline operations following the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. While restructuring is often necessary for long-term health, gutting a studio known for pioneering FPS technology sends mixed signals about Xbox’s commitment to first-party innovation.
For everyday users, this means potential delays or changes in how future DOOM titles are developed and supported on PC. It also highlights the volatility of the gaming industry, where even veteran studios face significant uncertainty during corporate transitions.
Source: Windows Central
Over to you: Do you think Microsoft should have preserved more staff at id Software to protect the DOOM franchise?
