Doom’s new expansion shows just what makes id Software special

New Delhi, India Jul 10, 2026 ALN: This week should have been a celebration for Doom developer id Software. The studio just launched Revelations, a meaty expansion for Doom: The Dark Ages that adds a powerful new weapon and more demonic levels to blast through. Even though I hadn’t picked up The Dark Ages for more than a year, it only took moments before I fell right back into the familiar loop from id’s modern Doom games. Each plays differently, but they all have a similar foundation built around fast-paced shooter action that makes them feel iconically Doom — and unlike pretty much anything else.

However, the launch has been overshadowed by significant turmoil within the studio. As part of Xbox’s mass layoffs and strategy “reset,” id Software faced substantial workforce reductions. Reports indicate that nearly half of the studio’s employees were laid off, with estimates varying between 92 and 96 of the 185 full-time staff members affected. This drastic measure has raised concerns about the studio's ability to maintain its creative output and innovation, particularly in the wake of the successful revival of the Doom franchise in recent years.

The layoffs have not only impacted the number of employees but have also led to speculation about the future of id Software's projects. Sources suggest that the team responsible for the proprietary id engine, which has powered many of their games, may now consist of just one employee. This raises questions about the studio's capacity to develop new nologies or update existing ones, which are crucial for the creation of high-quality gaming experiences.

Whichever way you count it, it appears the id of today is a shell of the studio that it was at the beginning of the week. And just as that is happening, Revelations shows exactly what made the studio special. The expansion not only showcases the studio's ability to create compelling gameplay but also highlights the core elements that have defined the Doom series for decades.

The Dark Ages expanded the Doom formula, especially with a new shield that doubled as a throwable buzzsaw, but in the process added some unnecessary features. Revelations wisely focuses more on the core Doom formula of taking down wave after wave of bad guys and significantly cuts down on the rest. This refinement of gameplay mechanics is a hallmark of id Software's design philosophy, which has always prioritized player experience and engagement.

In Revelations, The Slayer is equipped with a new spear, which adds a fresh dynamic to combat. Players can swing it like a sword to hit nearby enemies, toss it like a grappling hook to zip forward, or, with upgrades, stab foes or throw it like a javelin. This versatility encourages players to adopt different strategies, allowing for a more tactical approach to combat. With the shield, players often found themselves engaging demons up close, employing a spray-and-pray and parry strategy. The spear, however, encourages a more fluid style of play, requiring players to maintain distance, dodge incoming attacks, and strike when the opportunity arises. This shift in combat mechanics transforms the gameplay into a more dance-like experience rather than a straightforward exercise in brute force.

For fans of modern Doom, Revelations delivers an experience that feels both familiar and refreshing. Iconic enemies return, including the spider-like Arachnotron, the flying Revenant, and the lumbering Mancubus. Battles unfold in expansive arenas, where players must constantly manage their resources, including ammo, armor, and health. The tension of being on the brink of depletion adds an exhilarating layer to the gameplay, compelling players to engage in combat with a sense of urgency. The accompanying pulsing metal soundtrack enhances the intensity of the action, making each encounter feel even more exhilarating.

If what I just described sounds like it could have been said about Doom 2016 or Doom Eternal, you’re right. id knows what a Doom game is and what it wants a Doom game to be, and Revelations is one of the best examples yet of what modern Doom can be. Despite pioneering the first-person shooter (FPS) genre, Doom remains distinct from its contemporaries by focusing on brutal, unrelenting action. The franchise has evolved significantly since its inception in 1993, with each installment building upon the last while introducing new mechanics and features that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Throughout its history, id Software has been synonymous with innovation in gaming. The original Doom set the standard for 3D graphics and networked multiplayer gameplay, while subsequent titles like Quake, Wolfenstein 3D, and Rage pushed the boundaries of what was possible in video games. This legacy of innovation is what makes the current state of id Software particularly concerning. The layoffs and restructuring raise questions about the studio's ability to continue its tradition of excellence and creativity.

Looking ahead, the future of id Software remains uncertain. Reports suggest that the studio had been exploring various ideas, including a multiplayer or co-op version of Doom, a game inspired by the John Wick franchise, and even a new installment in the Perfect Dark series. However, with the recent layoffs and the reduction of personnel, the studio may face significant challenges in bringing these concepts to fruition. The gaming industry is highly competitive, and if id Software is to produce another Doom title, it will need to navigate these challenges while striving to maintain the high standards that fans have come to expect.

As the gaming community reflects on the launch of Revelations amidst this turbulence, it serves as a reminder of the resilience and creativity that have characterized id Software's legacy. The expansion not only highlights the strengths of the Doom franchise but also underscores the importance of supporting and nurturing the talent that has brought these iconic games to life. The hope is that, despite the setbacks, id Software can find a path forward that honors its rich history while continuing to innovate and captivate players for years to come.