Gaming

John Carmack: "Games Must Be Successful, Not Just Liked"

July 11, 2026Carlos Mendoza1 мин

Despite having left id Software 13 years ago, John Carmack remains inextricably linked to 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 permanently, and transforming the team into what appears to be a support studio?

Carmack has now weighed in on the matter via social media, stating pragmatically that while he regrets his previous assertion that Microsoft would be a good owner for the studio, he also acknowledges that it's not enough for games to be acclaimed; they must also sell well.

"I am saddened, but I can't feel anger or indignation about it," he wrote. "I don't have access to the books, but I suspect id Software was a marginal business from Microsoft's perspective. I believe the reports that Minecraft's revenue has kept several other studios afloat."

He continued, "For long-term continued development, games have to be successful, not just liked."

He admits it might have been an impulsive decision, but he himself struggles to see what could have boosted sales:

"It's not out of the question that management are idiots, but that shouldn't be your starting assumption," Carmack mused. "I don't think there's an obvious solution that would have doubled the revenue generated by id's games."

He concluded his lengthy message on a positive note, writing that despite everything, he doesn't believe this marks the end of the road for id Software:

"The game is not over yet, and I hope the studio makes it through."