Romero Games, the studio founded by Doom co-creator John Romero and Brenda Romero, has expressed devastation after learning that funding for its upcoming project was abruptly canceled—reportedly as part of Microsoft's latest cuts—putting both the game and its team in jeopardy.
Studio director Brenda Romero confirmed in a statement that their financial partner and publisher withdrew support "along with several other unannounced projects at other studios." The decision reportedly stems from Microsoft’s broader restructuring efforts.
A now-former Romero Games employee also confirmed on social media that their departure was "due to the recent Xbox layoffs." IGN has reached out to Microsoft for comment.
The cancellation follows Microsoft's sweeping layoffs across Xbox studios, which also led to the shutdown of projects like Everwild and Perfect Dark, along with other undisclosed titles.
"This decision was made at a high leadership level, beyond our visibility or influence," Romero stated. "We desperately wish there had been a way to avert this outcome."
Romero emphasized that the project had consistently met all deadlines, earned praise, and passed internal evaluations—making the sudden cancellation all the more shocking.
The studio is now assessing its next steps and prioritizing support for its affected team members. Brenda Romero urged those with potential opportunities for the team to reach out.
"These are the most talented people I’ve ever worked with," John Romero added in a social media post. "It pains me to confirm that our studio and our game were impacted."
Romero Games’ previous work includes the 2019 and 2023 releases Sigil and Sigil 2, as well as the 2020 strategy title Empire of Sin.
Details about their latest project remain scarce, though the studio had previously revealed it was a new first-person shooter built in Unreal Engine 5. In mid-2022, Romero Games announced expansion plans after securing funding for the game.
"It’s a new era for Romero Games," they declared at the time. "We're collaborating with a major publisher on John Romero’s next FPS—an original new IP."
