Romero Games Seeks New Publisher After Xbox Layoffs
▼ Summary
– Romero Games clarified it is not shutting down despite its next game’s funding being canceled by a publisher, linked to Xbox’s recent layoffs.
– The studio is actively seeking a new publisher to complete its game, with several publishers already expressing interest.
– Romero Games cannot name the original publisher due to confidentiality agreements, but staff confirmed involvement in Microsoft’s layoffs.
– Microsoft’s recent layoffs and project cancellations, like the Perfect Dark reboot and Everwild, have negatively impacted Xbox studios.
– The Xbox Series X/S generation has been marked by significant turmoil for Xbox Game Studios, with few successful games to offset the setbacks.
Romero Games, the development studio co-founded by legendary Doom creator John Romero, has clarified its position following recent industry speculation about its future. Initial reports suggested the studio might be shutting down after its unnamed publisher withdrew funding for an upcoming project, a move linked to broader Xbox layoffs. However, the team has since confirmed it remains operational and is actively pursuing alternative publishing partners to revive the canceled title.
In a social media update, Romero Games emphasized that while its current project lost financial backing, the studio itself isn’t closing. Multiple publishers have already expressed interest in stepping in, and the team is carefully reviewing these opportunities. Though confidentiality agreements prevent naming the original publisher, insiders have pointed to Microsoft’s recent restructuring as the reason behind the sudden funding withdrawal.
The situation highlights the ripple effects of Xbox’s aggressive cost-cutting measures, which have disrupted several high-profile projects across its studios. From the shelving of Rare’s Everwild to uncertainties surrounding the Perfect Dark reboot, Microsoft’s gaming division has faced intense scrutiny for prioritizing austerity over creative output. If Romero Games secures a new deal, it could signal a rare positive outcome amid Xbox’s turbulent year.
For now, the studio’s focus remains on finding the right partner to deliver its vision. Fans of Romero’s iconic work, from Doom to Quake, will be watching closely, hoping this next chapter avoids becoming another casualty in an increasingly volatile industry. The broader question lingers: Can Xbox recover from its recent missteps and rebuild trust with both developers and players? Only time, and perhaps Romero’s next game, will tell.
(Source: Kotaku)
