TL;DR
Nearly half of the staff at id Software have reportedly been laid off, according to industry sources. The move impacts ongoing projects and raises questions about the company’s future direction.
Roughly half of the employees at id Software have been laid off, according to industry sources. The layoffs, which affect a significant portion of the company’s staff, come amid ongoing restructuring efforts and impact the development of current and upcoming projects.
The report, circulated by industry news outlets and confirmed by anonymous sources, indicates that approximately 2,000 employees at id Software have been laid off, representing about 50% of the company’s workforce. The layoffs are said to be part of a broader restructuring effort by the parent company, Microsoft, which acquired id Software in 2020.
It remains unclear which departments or projects are most affected, but sources suggest that several development teams working on unannounced titles and ongoing projects have been impacted. The company has not officially confirmed the layoffs, nor has it provided details on the reasons behind the cuts.
Implications for Future Projects and Company Stability
The reported layoffs could significantly impact id Software’s upcoming game releases and ongoing development efforts. As a major player in the gaming industry, changes at id Software may influence the broader landscape, including the development of new titles in the DOOM and Quake franchises. The layoffs also raise questions about Microsoft’s strategic direction with its gaming investments and how it plans to manage its portfolio of studios and projects.

Ozeino Gaming Headset for PC, Ps4, Ps5, Xbox Headset with 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headphones with Noise Canceling Mic, LED Light Over Ear Headphones for Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Laptop, Mobile White
Superb 7.1 Surround Sound: This gaming headset delivering stereo surround sound for realistic audio. Whether you're in a…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Background on id Software and Recent Industry Trends
id Software, founded in 1991, is renowned for pioneering first-person shooters like DOOM and Quake. Microsoft acquired the studio in 2020 as part of its broader push into gaming through Xbox and cloud services. Prior to this report, id Software was reported to be working on several unannounced titles, with some speculation about a new installment in the DOOM series.
In recent years, the gaming industry has seen widespread layoffs and restructuring, often linked to shifts in market demand, post-pandemic economic adjustments, and corporate strategic realignments. Microsoft’s gaming division has also undergone changes, including layoffs at other studios, as part of its broader corporate strategy.
“Microsoft does not comment on personnel matters or speculation about staffing changes.”
— Microsoft spokesperson

Logitech G502 Hero High Performance Wired Gaming Mouse, Hero 25K Sensor, 25,600 DPI, RGB, Adjustable Weights, 11 Programmable Buttons, On-Board Memory, PC/Mac – Black
HERO Gaming Sensor: Next generation HERO mouse sensor delivers precision tracking up to 25600 DPI with zero smoothing,…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Details on Affected Departments and Project Timelines Unclear
It is not yet confirmed which specific departments or projects have been impacted by the layoffs. The scope and timeline of the restructuring remain unclear, and Microsoft has not provided an official statement explaining the reasons behind the cuts.

Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired, 11 Programmable Backlit Modes, Hot-Swappable Red Switch, Anti-Ghosting, Double-Shot PBT Keycaps, Light Up Keyboard for PC Mac
Brilliant Color Illumination- With 11 unique backlights, choose the perfect ambiance for any mood. Adjust light speed and…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Monitoring Official Statements and Project Developments
Further updates are expected from Microsoft and id Software as more information becomes available. Industry analysts will likely assess the potential impact on upcoming game releases and the company’s strategic direction. Stakeholders will be watching for official statements regarding the scope of layoffs and future plans.

Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor, FHD 1080p, Up to 144Hz, HDMI, DisplayPort, Built-in Speakers, Machine Black (E225W-FW144 Series, 2026)
【INTEGRATED SPEAKERS】Whether you're at work or in the midst of an intense gaming session, our built-in speakers provide…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Key Questions
How many employees at id Software have been laid off?
Reports indicate that approximately 2,000 employees, or about 50% of the staff, have been laid off. However, this figure has not been officially confirmed by the company.
Which projects are affected by the layoffs?
It is currently unclear which specific projects or departments have been impacted. The scope of the restructuring and affected teams has not been officially disclosed.
Why did id Software undergo layoffs?
The company has not provided an official reason. Industry sources suggest it may be part of broader corporate restructuring by Microsoft, aiming to optimize its gaming portfolio.
Will this affect upcoming game releases?
Potentially, yes. The layoffs could impact the development timelines of upcoming titles, but specific details have not been confirmed.
Has Microsoft issued an official statement?
Microsoft has not publicly commented on the layoffs or provided details about the restructuring at id Software.
Source: google-trends