Former Oculus CTO John Carmack Puts Up $1M For Official VR Ports Of Id Software Titles

John Carmack, the former Oculus CTO and co-founder of id Software, has publicly reiterated his willingness to contribute $1 million of his personal funds to support the development of official VR ports of Id’s classic titles. This announcement follows recent layoffs at Microsoft’s Id Software studio, raising concerns about the studio’s future in VR and game development.

Carmack, who left Oculus in 2019 and Meta in 2022, has been an outspoken advocate for open platforms and virtual reality. He previously expressed support for VR modding group Team Beef, which has released unofficial VR versions of Id Software’s games, including DOOM and Quake. Now, with Microsoft’s downsizing of Id Software, Carmack is offering financial backing to facilitate official VR ports of these titles, especially those based on open-source engine code.

He clarified that his offer targets legacy open source games such as the original DOOM (1993), Quake (1996), and Return to Castle Wolfenstein (2001), whose engines are publicly available, but whose assets remain under Microsoft’s ownership. Carmack’s support aims to enable these titles to be ported to VR officially, despite the current uncertainties surrounding Id Software’s operations following layoffs.

Potential Impact on VR and Classic Gaming Revival

This pledge by Carmack underscores a broader push to revive and preserve classic first-person shooters within virtual reality. If successful, it could lead to officially sanctioned VR versions of iconic titles, expanding VR’s library and appeal. The move also highlights ongoing industry debates about the sustainability of VR gaming, especially given the lower revenue margins compared to traditional flat-screen titles. For fans and developers, this could mark a significant step toward more immersive, officially supported VR experiences of beloved classics.

Microsoft’s Downsizing and Its Effect on Id Software

Since acquiring Id Software in 2009, Microsoft has maintained the studio as a relatively insulated entity, even amid widespread layoffs across the gaming industry in 2024, including at other ZeniMax-owned studios. Recent cuts at Id Software have reduced the team to what some describe as a support studio, raising concerns about the studio’s capacity to develop new projects or ports. Carmack’s previous support for unofficial VR mods and ports reflects ongoing interest in revitalizing these titles, but official support has been limited by corporate decisions and resource constraints.

Despite the open-source nature of the game engines, Microsoft retains ownership of the assets, complicating efforts to produce official VR versions without corporate approval. Carmack’s offer aims to bridge this gap, leveraging his industry influence and personal investment to push for official VR adaptations.

“BTW, if the XBOX division is scrounging for loose change under the sofa cushions, I’m still willing to put up a $1M guarantee to allow TeamBeefVR to commercialize the legacy open source games on VR.”

— John Carmack

Unclear Microsoft Response and Future Development

It remains uncertain whether Microsoft will approve or support Carmack’s initiative financially or strategically. The company’s current stance on VR development and the future of Id Software’s projects in VR are not publicly confirmed. Additionally, the extent to which assets can be used for official VR ports without further licensing remains unclear, as does the timeline for any potential releases.

Next Steps for VR Ports and Studio Support

The immediate next step is for Carmack to engage with Microsoft and Id Software leadership to gauge support for his proposal. If the company shows interest, development could begin on official VR ports of classic titles, with potential announcements or prototypes emerging within the coming months. Fans and industry observers will be watching closely for any official confirmation or partnership updates.

Key Questions

What specific games might get VR ports?

The focus is likely on open-source engine titles such as DOOM, Quake, and Return to Castle Wolfenstein, which have a strong legacy and community interest.

Will these VR ports be officially licensed?

This depends on Microsoft’s support. Carmack’s offer aims to facilitate official licensing, but confirmation from Microsoft is still pending.

How much influence does Carmack’s offer have?

While Carmack’s reputation and financial pledge are significant, the ultimate decision rests with Microsoft and Id Software’s corporate leadership.

Could this initiative revive interest in classic FPS games?

Yes, if successful, it could introduce these titles to new audiences through immersive VR experiences, boosting their cultural relevance.

What are the risks for Microsoft in supporting this?

Financially, VR titles currently generate less revenue than flat-screen games, and licensing or asset use could pose legal or logistical challenges.

Source: Road to VR