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“We’re doing great,” says id Software boss, despite losing “about half of our studio” amid devastating Xbox cuts
Id Software co-studio director Marty Stratton says the Doom and Quake developer is “doing great” after about half its studio left in Microsoft’s gaming cuts. He said the company had deliberately worked to keep the studio viable across game development and technology, as questions continue about the effect of the layoffs on its ability to make games.
Around 136 id Software employees reportedly lost their jobs in the first wave of cuts in July, including staff working on its id Tech engine. The wider Xbox reset is expected to cut 3,200 jobs across Microsoft’s gaming division, with further reductions still to come. Stratton also said id Software is working more closely with MachineGames; id’s next project has not been announced.
In short
- About half of id Software’s studio left after the cuts.
- Marty Stratton says the developer remains viable.
- id Software is deepening its work with MachineGames.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Stratton’s confidence may reflect deliberate planning to preserve the studio’s core capabilities and keep it viable across both game development and technology. Closer work with MachineGames could help the teams share expertise and sustain future projects despite the losses.
The case against
Losing about half the studio, including staff working on id Tech, is a substantial blow that may weaken the skills and capacity behind future games. With further Xbox cuts expected and id’s next project unannounced, there is reason to question whether assurances that the studio is doing well reflect its longer-term ability to deliver.
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