id Software Rejects Unreal Engine 5, Continues Developing Proprietary id Tech

Summary

id Software executive producer Marty Stratton has revealed that the studio will stick with its in-house id Tech engine rather than switching to Unreal Engine 5. In an interview with Windows Central, Stratton emphasized that the team remains "all-in" on id Tech, citing a recent meeting with five or six technical directors who showed great excitement about the technology. The id Tech engine has powered major titles like the Doom series and MachineGames' Indiana Jones game, known for its high-performance rendering and cross-platform optimization. Despite speculation that the studio might adopt a more general-purpose engine, Stratton dismissed these concerns, asserting that id Software will continue to lead in technology. This decision carries significant industry implications: it demonstrates that major studios are still willing to invest in proprietary engines to achieve unique performance and visual styles rather than relying solely on third-party solutions. For players, this means future id Software titles are likely to retain the signature high frame rates and fluid gameplay, while also serving as a successful case study for other developers. However, the path ahead is not without challenges, including talent competition and the high cost of engine maintenance. Stratton's confident remarks have nonetheless boosted community morale, reinforcing trust in the studio's technical…