Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft withdrew support for an unannounced AAA first-person shooter project, risking over 100 jobs at Romero Games.
2. The game was about halfway through development when funding was halted, but Romero Games is exploring partnerships with other publishers to revive it.
3. John Romero emphasizes that the studio owns all aspects of the game, including the IP and code, allowing flexibility in future collaborations.
4. Despite the setback, there is interest from multiple companies to continue the project, highlighting the potential value of the developed assets.
5. John Romero sees a positive side, stating that even if the project doesn’t continue, the studio has significant assets worth $50 million to create new games.
After Microsoft withdrew support for an unannounced AAA first-person shooter project, John Romero, co-creator of Doom and Quake, has shared that Romero Games is currently engaging with several publishers to bring the project back to life.
Job Security Concerns
In July 2025, Romero Games disclosed that Microsoft had halted funding for the unnamed game, jeopardizing over 100 jobs at the studio. Previous employees were taken aback, describing the situation as a “big shock,” especially since the studio had met with the publisher just the day prior without any hint of cancellation.
There were rumors that the studio might close down, but Romero Games refuted these claims. Recently, the team had a conversation with Game Reactor during the San Diego Comic Con in Malaga.
Project Status Update
Romero acknowledged that the FPS project was “about midway” in its development when the funding was pulled. After reaching out to various publishers, it seems there is hope for the project to continue its development journey.
In the interview, John Romero mentioned, “Well, we’re still figuring out what we’re gonna do with our big game. We own the IP, we own the code, we own everything about the game, right?”
He emphasized that numerous companies remain keen on their project, even though Microsoft has shifted its focus towards broader infrastructure goals. Romero elaborated further:
The Bright Side
“We have many companies that are still interested and are working with us on it because when you develop a game for years and invest, let’s say, $50 million into it, if you switch and start collaborating with someone else, they essentially gain $50 million for free.”
Despite the disappointment, John Romero sees a silver lining in Microsoft’s withdrawal of funding. The studio possesses a wealth of assets, mechanics, storylines, and artwork that another publisher may evaluate and potentially use to revive the Romero Games project.
He added:
“There are plenty of people eager to continue working on something, you know, and even if that doesn’t pan out, you have $50 million worth of assets you can use to create something new. So regardless of the outcome, you’re expediting the completion of your game, right? You already have a lot ready to go.”
Initially teased in 2022, the project was described as “a new dawn,” indicating the studio’s move into FPS development following their work on Empires of Sin.
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