Microsoft Slammed by id Software Dev for 'Fundamentally Flawed' Gaming Approach
id Software's lead services programmer Chris Hays has spoken out against Microsoft's approach to game development, calling it 'fundamentally flawed'. In a recent interview, Hays criticized Microsoft for not understanding games or art. This comes after the company announced layoffs in its gaming division.
Hays made his comments during an interview on September 20, 2026. He expressed frustration with Microsoft's approach to game development, suggesting that it is not aligned with the needs and goals of gamers and developers alike.
The id Software programmer stated that 'they don't understand games' and implied that this lack of understanding has led to problems in the gaming division, including layoffs. It remains unclear what specific changes Hays believes are needed to address these issues or how his comments will impact Microsoft's strategy going forward.