Derek Best
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Xbox confirms there isn't just "1 person left in Texas" working on id Software's engine following mass layoffs, but "dozens" across "multiple locations"
Xbox has refuted claims that only one person remains in Texas working on id Software's id Tech engine following extensive layoffs. A spokesperson stated that dozens of employees are still working on the engine across multiple locations, though the exact number is unconfirmed. Former id Software artist Derek Best criticized Microsoft's actions, stating that significant institutional knowledge and technological advancements, particularly for Doom: The Dark Ages, have been lost due to the layoffs.
"Great job Microsoft": Former id Software artist says the legendary dev has been "relegated to support studio size" after Xbox's strategy of "nuking a team into the dirt"
Former id Software artist Derek Best stated that Microsoft's recent layoffs have reduced the iconic FPS developer to a support studio size. Best, who was among the 136 employees laid off, criticized Microsoft's strategy, noting the significant loss of institutional knowledge and the impact on the id Tech engine team. The layoffs have raised concerns about the future of id Software's core franchises like Doom and Quake.
New Perfect Dark, Co-Op Doom Were Reportedly In The Works At Id Software Before Mass Layoffs
Mass layoffs have significantly impacted id Software, with reports suggesting projects like a new Perfect Dark game, a co-op Doom experience, and a John Wick-inspired title called Fury were in development. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma's 'reset plan' led to the dismissal of over half of id Software's staff, potentially affecting the future of the id Tech engine and other studios like Obsidian Entertainment and ZeniMax Online Studios.
Doom and Quake studio id Software reportedly gutted, leaving standalone capabilities in doubt and newly revealed game ideas dead
Microsoft's restructuring has severely impacted id Software, with 136 employees laid off, leaving fewer than 50 staff. This reduction in force has reportedly led to the cancellation of new game ideas like 'Fury' and a 'Perfect Dark' title, and casts doubt on the studio's ability to develop full-scale games independently. The future of id Software appears to be shifting towards a support role for other Xbox studios, potentially focusing on its proprietary id Tech engine.
Laid-off id Software artist says Microsoft is 'nuking the team into the dirt' and is now the size of a…
Microsoft's recent layoffs have significantly impacted id Software, with 136 roles eliminated, reducing the studio to what a laid-off VFX artist describes as 'support studio size.' This downsizing has led to the elimination of entire teams, including VFX and engine programming, raising concerns about the future of the idTech engine and the studio's creative output.
