Id Software co‑founder John Carmack responded to Microsoft's decision to cut 136 Doom studio jobs, stating he feels no anger but acknowledges the impact on the upcoming QuakeCon founder reunion. His measured remarks blend industry insight with a hint of disappointment.
Key Takeaways
- Carmack expresses sadness but not outrage over the layoffs.
- Microsoft likely views Id Software as a marginal business.
- The cuts could affect the atmosphere at next month’s QuakeCon founder reunion.
John Carmack, now heading artificial general intelligence startup Keen Technologies, posted a thoughtful response after Microsoft’s mass layoffs that included cutting 136 positions at Id Software, the studio behind Doom. He wrote, “I have been trying to find something meaningful to say about the Id Software layoffs… I’m saddened, but I can’t muster anger or outrage over it.” While echoing co‑founder John Romero’s earlier comments, Carmack added a distinctive economic perspective.
Industry Context
Microsoft’s recent restructuring under the Xbox umbrella has seen several studios either shuttered or downsized as the tech giant seeks a leaner, more profitable gaming division. The decision, framed as a long‑term sustainability move, has left developers of iconic franchises like Doom facing uncertainty about future projects and creative direction.
Carmack’s Economic Analysis
In his post, Carmack suggested that Id Software may have been a “marginal business” from Microsoft’s viewpoint. He speculated that the company’s reliance on Minecraft revenues to subsidize other studios might have limited resources for Id. He further argued that “to continue being produced long term, games need to succeed, not just be beloved,” implying that commercial performance, not nostalgia, drives corporate decisions.
Potential Paths Forward
Carmack floated several ideas that could have increased Id’s profitability: raising game prices, cutting development cycles, or creating more micro‑transaction‑friendly content. He admitted uncertainty about whether any of these would have worked, concluding, “the game isn’t over yet and I hope the studio rallies through.” This pragmatic stance underscores the tension between creative ambition and market realities in today’s gaming ecosystem.
Implications for QuakeCon and Beyond
The layoffs will inevitably “dampen the mood of the founder reunion at QuakeCon next month,” Carmack warned, hinting at a potentially subdued atmosphere for the community that celebrates the legacy of Id’s groundbreaking titles. At the same time, the episode raises broader questions about how large platforms like Xbox Game Pass influence traditional sales models and the financial health of legacy studios.
