John Romero comments on id Software layoffs and legacy preservation
Following the recent mass layoffs at id Software, studio co-founder John Romero took to social media to express his support for those affected.
Romero shared his perspective on leaving the company, writing: "I know what it feels like to leave id while id goes on. It’s a strange and painful thing to step away from a place that holds so much of your work, friendships and history." He praised the current developers for their work on the studio's foundational IPs, noting that carrying on names like DOOM, Quake and Wolfenstein is no easy task in today’s industry, and that recent titles showed real care, skill, and respect for those worlds.
Romero also emphasized the critical importance of digital preservation regarding the studio's history. He revealed that he has preserved id’s complete early history from its beginnings at Softdisk up until August 6, 1996, including assets and materials that the company itself likely no longer possesses. He expressed hope that someone is actively doing the same for the studio's modern legacy, including the ongoing work, code, assets, and stories. Concluding his statement, Romero noted that his own studio, Romero Games, went through a similar situation a year ago, adding, "I know how devastating it is, and my heart's with all of you."
As a reminder, John Romero, alongside fellow co-founders John Carmack, Adrian Carmack and Tom Hall, are scheduled to appear as special guests at QuakeCon 2026. The event will take place from August 6–9, 2026, returning to the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.
Romero shared his perspective on leaving the company, writing: "I know what it feels like to leave id while id goes on. It’s a strange and painful thing to step away from a place that holds so much of your work, friendships and history." He praised the current developers for their work on the studio's foundational IPs, noting that carrying on names like DOOM, Quake and Wolfenstein is no easy task in today’s industry, and that recent titles showed real care, skill, and respect for those worlds.
Romero also emphasized the critical importance of digital preservation regarding the studio's history. He revealed that he has preserved id’s complete early history from its beginnings at Softdisk up until August 6, 1996, including assets and materials that the company itself likely no longer possesses. He expressed hope that someone is actively doing the same for the studio's modern legacy, including the ongoing work, code, assets, and stories. Concluding his statement, Romero noted that his own studio, Romero Games, went through a similar situation a year ago, adding, "I know how devastating it is, and my heart's with all of you."
As a reminder, John Romero, alongside fellow co-founders John Carmack, Adrian Carmack and Tom Hall, are scheduled to appear as special guests at QuakeCon 2026. The event will take place from August 6–9, 2026, returning to the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.
