Microsoft’s recent gaming-focused layoffs have cast a shadow over the development of an anticipated shooter game by John Romero, the co-creator of Doom. Romero had been working on a new first-person shooter through his studio, Romero Games, teasing its release back in 2022. However, the studio faced a setback as Microsoft, its publisher, made significant cuts, resulting in a loss of funding. This unfortunate turn of events ultimately led to the closure of Romero Games.

Reports indicate that the layoff at Microsoft affected a considerable number of employees, with a particular impact on the gaming division. Romero Games publicly acknowledged the funding withdrawal on Bluesky, confirming the dire situation. An employee from the studio disclosed on LinkedIn that the closure was a direct consequence of the layoffs at Microsoft. The closure left 42 staff members and a larger network of developers unemployed, halting the progress of the highly anticipated game.

Despite the setback, efforts are underway to explore alternative funding avenues to revive the project. However, as of now, the studio remains completely shut down. The sudden turn of events has left the gaming community in shock, especially given the game’s advanced development stage and the promise of cutting-edge graphics powered by Unreal Engine 5.

The demise of Romero Games comes as a blow to the gaming industry, particularly at a time when Microsoft’s Xbox division is in need of new successful titles. The game in question was poised to introduce fresh intellectual property and deliver a gaming experience with state-of-the-art visuals. Romero Games’ closure not only affects the game’s development but also leaves a talented team without a project to work on.

When reached for comment, Romero Games did not provide an immediate response, leaving fans and industry insiders awaiting further details. In an earlier statement, the studio expressed pride in its achievements, highlighting its track record of meeting milestones and receiving acclaim for its work. The closure of the studio has put a halt to a project that was well on its way to completion, leaving many disappointed.

Michael Kan, a seasoned journalist with over 15 years of experience, has been closely following the developments in the gaming industry. With a keen eye on emerging trends and significant events, Kan has been at the forefront of reporting on key players and their impact on the gaming landscape. His insights provide valuable context to understand the implications of Romero Games’ closure and its ripple effects on the wider gaming community.

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