id Software

id Software is an American video game developer based in Richardson, Texas, founded February 1, 1991 by John Carmack, John Romero, Tom Hall, and Adrian Carmack. They created the first-person shooter genre, developed some of the most influential game engines in history, and built Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein into cultural phenomena. ZeniMax Media acquired them in 2009, and Microsoft acquired ZeniMax in 2021. While primarily a developer, id has historically self-published and partnered with other publishers throughout their career.

id Software Key Games

Doom (1993) and Quake (1996)

Doom became a cultural phenomenon in December 1993, ported to virtually every platform. Quake in 1996 was the first game with a fully 3D engine. Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails provided the sound design for Quake. id received an Emmy Award in 2008 for Quake’s pioneering contribution to user-modifiable games.

Doom (2016), Doom Eternal (2020), and Doom: The Dark Ages (2025)

The modern Doom trilogy published under Bethesda represents a genuine comeback. Fast, brutal, mechanically sharp. The Dark Ages received strong reviews in 2025 continuing the momentum of the modern era. id Software celebrated their 35th anniversary in February 2026.