John Carmack: Games Must Succeed, Not Just Be Appreciated
Even though it's been 13 years since John Carmack left id Software, he will forever be closely associated with the iconic studio he co-founded. So, what does he truly think about Microsoft now laying off nearly three-quarters of the legendary developer's staff, likely ending the Id Tech game engine for good, and seemingly transforming the team into a support studio?
Carmack has now weighed in on the matter via social media, stating without sentimentality that he regrets his previous assertion that Microsoft would be a good owner for the studio. However, he simultaneously remains pragmatic, pointing out that it's not enough for titles to be iconic; they must also sell well:
"I'm saddened, but I can't muster anger or outrage about it. I don't have access to the books, but I suspect id Software was a fringe business from Microsoft's perspective. I believe the reports that Minecraft revenue kept several other studios afloat."
"To continue to be developed in the long term, games need to succeed, not just be appreciated."
He admits it might have been a thoughtless decision, but he himself struggles to see what could have boosted sales:
"We can't rule out that the leadership is idiotic, but that shouldn't be your starting assumption. I don't think there's an obvious solution that would have doubled the revenue generated by id's games."
He concludes his lengthy message on a positive note, writing that, despite everything, he doesn't believe this marks the end of the story for id Software:
"The game isn't over yet, and I hope the studio will pull through."
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