Microsoft layoffs affect id Software and Bethesda staff
Microsoft's recent round of cuts across its Xbox division has extended to its game studios, with roughly half of id Software's team and a significant portion of Bethesda staff reportedly laid off.
Microsoft announced 3,200 job cuts within its Xbox division, focusing on the platform team and middle management. Subsequent reports indicate that the reductions also reached its owned game developers, including id Software and Bethesda.
According to multiple anonymous sources cited by Game Developer, about 90 employees at id Software's Doom studio were let go, representing roughly 50% of the team. Veteran programmer Michael Maynard confirmed his inclusion in the layoffs on LinkedIn, describing the situation as "roughly 50%" of the id team dismissed on Monday. Founder Scott Miller also referenced insider information suggesting most, if not all, coders at id were affected.
Id co-founder John Romero expressed sorrow over the cuts in a social-media thread, praising the recent work of the studio and urging Microsoft to preserve its code and documentation.
Bethesda President Jill Braff sent an internal email thanking affected colleagues and noting that the studio must "change course" to focus on its strongest franchises. The message highlighted the uncertainty facing remaining staff and referenced Microsoft's broader plan to cut an additional 1,600 jobs this fiscal year. Reports indicate that The Elder Scrolls Online may have lost up to half of its developers.
"Just really sad that this is how id Software, the pioneer/innovator of FPS action games is relegated to just another ‘reorganization’ of assets," Maynard wrote.
"We must strengthen our business, return to sustainable growth, and ensure we can continue investing in our franchises and our players," Braff wrote.
The layoffs come as Microsoft seeks to streamline operations and prioritize its core gaming franchises.