Romero Games Seeks Partnership After Microsoft Cuts Funding

Romero Games, John Romero's studio, is seeking new partners for its as-yet-unannounced game, after Microsoft withdrew funding for the project. The news raises concerns about the instability of project funding, even for studios led by renowned figures in the industry. Despite the setback, Romero Games stated that "several publishers" have already shown interest in bringing the game "over the finish line," indicating that the project still has the potential to be released.

The decision by Microsoft to cut funding for a game from a studio as established as Romero Games is a sign of market volatility and the priorities of large companies.

Microsoft's funding cut to a Romero Games project comes at a time of intense restructuring for the Xbox division. Microsoft has been criticized for its recent mass layoffs – about 9,000 employees in June 2025 across various divisions, including Xbox and Activision Blizzard – and for studio closures. In May 2024, the company shut down Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, even after acquiring ZeniMax Media for $7.5 billion in 2021. Comparisons of Microsoft to Electronic Arts (EA) for its practice of closing studios post-acquisition have intensified.

Although Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has reaffirmed his commitment to not leaving Xbox anytime soon, the decision to withdraw funding from an ongoing project reflects an internal strategic review. This may be part of an attempt to optimize resources or redefine the focus of Game Pass, which currently has over 34 million subscribers. However, the uncertainty generated by such actions affects the perception of stability for independent developers and partners.

John Romero, a legend in the gaming industry known for his work on titles like Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein 3D, leads Romero Games. The project in question was a First-Person Shooter (FPS) focusing on a new IP (Intellectual Property). Romero's track record and the game genre would have, under different circumstances, been attractive to a major publisher like Microsoft.

Romero Games is now seeking a new partner for the development and release of its unannounced FPS. The news that "several publishers" have already expressed interest is a good sign, indicating that the project has merit and that the market still sees value in John Romero's work. The studio's experience in FPS development and Romero's reputation may attract companies looking to expand their portfolios with quality titles and industry pedigree.

The situation of Romero Games is an example of the complex dynamics between developers and major publishers. While initial funding from large companies may be crucial for ambitious projects, the withdrawal of this support can lead to significant delays or complete cancellation. Success in finding a new partner will be crucial for the game's future and for Romero Games itself.