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John Carmack Addressed Id Software's Massive Layoffs
The gaming industry has faced recent upheaval, with id Software losing roughly half of its staff due to budget cuts impacting multiple firms, notably Microsoft. John Carmack, a key figure behind titles like Doom and Quake, commented on the layoffs, saying he feels saddened about the situation but refrains from anger or outrage. His response highlights the emotional toll such layoffs bring to the industry and its culture. As a result, the landscape for game development may shift, impacting project timelines and team dynamics.
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Published 10 Jul 2026, 13:15 UTC1 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Id Software laid off nearly half its workforce.
- Microsoft's layoffs also included 3,200 employees from Xbox.
- John Carmack expressed his sadness about the layoffs.
- The gaming industry is undergoing substantial cost-cutting measures.
- Carmack's response emphasizes the emotional implications of layoffs.
Interesting facts
- Id Software is known for iconic franchises like Doom and Quake.
- Carmack's perspective sheds light on industry sentiment during challenging times.
Coverage gaps