id Software's creative director, Hugo Martin, has publicly refuted claims that the studio was 'nerfed into the ground' by Xbox layoffs, asserting that the team remains active and capable of producing high-quality games.

Following reports of significant staff cuts at Microsoft's Xbox division, including 96 layoffs at id Software's Texas headquarters and 40 remote roles eliminated, Martin emphasized that the studio is operating at the same staffing level as when it developed the 2016 Doom reboot.

He clarified that id Tech, the game engine used by id Software and MachineGames, is 'very much alive and well,' with engineers based in Frankfurt and at MachineGames collaborating extensively.

Martin also highlighted the commercial success of Doom: The Dark Ages, a prequel to the 2016 Doom and 2020 Doom Eternal games, stating it meets forecasted expectations.Meanwhile, laid-off employees have protested outside Bethesda offices, with union representatives negotiating exit agreements with Microsoft.

Co-founders John Romero and John Carmack have expressed support for the studio's legacy and questioned whether recent sales justified the layoffs.

Industry insiders suggest id Software is developing new projects, including a John Wick-style IP, a Perfect Dark game, and a multiplayer/co-op Doom title.The article underscores the tension between Microsoft's restructuring efforts and the resilience of iconic studios like id Software.