Hugo Martin: id Software Remains Robust Despite Xbox Layoffs Impact
Hugo Martin, the creative director at id Software, has shed light on the recent Xbox layoffs impacting the iconic developer of Doom, emphasizing that the company is still vibrant and productive.
According to a WARN notice filed in Texas, the company has seen the departure of 96 employees from its Richardson headquarters, with an additional 40 remote roles being terminated. This restructuring, under new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma’s leadership, is a part of a broader plan within Microsoft’s gaming division that initially saw 1,600 layoffs, with the same number expected by the end of the year.
Despite these changes, id Software assures fans and stakeholders that their operations remain solid. The studio states it now maintains a staffing level comparable to when they developed the 2016 Doom reboot. There remains a dedicated workforce within the company responsible for furthering the development of id Tech, their renowned game engine.
«There are dozens of people working on id Tech across multiple locations,» Xbox confirmed, countering reports suggesting a significant reduction of staff to a single individual in Texas.
A Strong Industry Legacy
During a livestream event featuring Doom: The Dark Ages DLC, Martin addressed the layoffs, countering claims that the studio was on the verge of collapse. He promised updates on new projects in the near future, stating the studio is at a size reminiscent of its successful 2016 era.
«We’re the size we were when we made Doom 2016, and id Tech is very much alive,» Martin asserted. «We collaborate across locations, and we’re excited to reveal our next steps when it’s the right time.»
The news arrives amidst protests from former employees outside Bethesda offices, driven by concerns over job security. Organized by the Communications Workers of America union, these rallies sought to negotiate better exit terms with Microsoft.
Industry Reactions and Future Prospects
id Software’s co-founders, John Romero and John Carmack, have both shared their perspectives on the recent layoffs. Romero praised the legacy of celebrated titles like Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein, urging the studio to carry forward their past achievements.
«Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein are not easy names to carry on, especially in today’s industry,» Romero reflected.
While Romero encouraged the studio’s efforts, Carmack expressed a more somber view, speculating whether sales performance contributed to these workforce reductions.
What Lies Ahead for id Software?
Before the cuts, id Software was reportedly exploring several exciting new ideas, from a John Wick-style original IP to a Perfect Dark revival, and even a multiplayer/campaign hybrid Doom game. Currently, sources like Tom Warren from The Verge confirm that a new Doom game is in the works.