Microsoft confirms the future of id Tech and id Software

Intelligence Summary
- Microsoft has confirmed that id Tech is not being shut down and that id Software is not being forced to switch to Unreal Engine.
In short
- Microsoft has confirmed that id Tech will continue, despite recent layoffs within the company.
- id Software will keep using id Tech and is under no obligation to move to Unreal Engine.
- Dozens of employees are still working on id Tech across multiple locations.
The recent layoffs at Microsoft have raised concerns about the future of id Software and its technology, id Tech. However, Microsoft has made it clear that there are no plans to shut down id Tech. This offers important reassurance for both developers and gamers following the future of iconic franchises like DOOM and Quake. The confirmation that id Tech is not being discontinued comes at a crucial time, given rumors about how the layoffs could affect the technology’s development.
GAME-scanner analysis
Microsoft’s confirmation that id Tech is not being shut down is highly significant for the gaming industry. Despite the layoffs, which reports say affected up to 73.5% of the staff at id Software, a solid group of experts continues to work on id Tech. This ensures continuity for a technology that has delivered groundbreaking innovations in gaming over the years. The presence of dozens of employees working on id Tech across different locations further reinforces this message of stability.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers, this confirmation means the development of future titles using id Tech, such as the next DOOM or Quake, is safe. The technology has proven to be a strong foundation for fast-paced and visually impressive gameplay. Continued support from Microsoft could also lead to further innovation, raising expectations for future releases. This is crucial for the fanbase hoping for new experiences within these beloved franchises.
Timeline
10 July 2026: Microsoft confirms that id Tech is not being shut down and that id Software is not being forced to switch to Unreal Engine.
Related GAME-scanner articles
- The future of id Tech and the impact of layoffs at Xbox: related: same topic: Microsoft; shared tags: game-engine, id-software, Microsoft
- The future of id Software: what does the wave of layoffs mean for Doom and Perfect Dark?: related: shared tags: id-software; concerns the future of id Software after layoffs