In a strange, surprise announcement, ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda, has purchased the legendary id Software studio, parent of some of the best shooters in the past, like DOOM, Quake or Wolfenstein. A really interesting move, and we’re really curious to see how will this change things regarding the future of the id-owned franchises. Maybe a DOOM RPG in the future?

At the moment, it is clear that ZeniMax will keep id Software under the direction of it’s founder, John Carmack and there are reportedly no changes planned regarding the game development (which means that RAGE and a new DOOM are still in the works).

“This puts id Software in a wonderful position going forward,” said John Carmack, who will continue to serve in his current role as Technical Director. “We will now be able to grow and extend all of our franchises under one roof, leveraging our capabilities across multiple teams while enabling forward looking research to be done in the service of all of them. We will be bigger and stronger, as we recruit the best talent to help us build the landmark games of the future. As trite as it may be for me to say that I am extremely pleased and excited about this deal, I am.”

On the other hand, John Romero, co-founder of id Software, didn’t have a great reaction when he heard about the acquisition. Writing on his Twitter page, he first said: “ZENIMAX??????? Disgusting.” Then added “Fallout 3 bought DOOM. Wow.” However, in the end (probably after some not-so-nice phone calls) he wrote: “I am positive about the Zenimax deal. my initial reaction was harsh. Sorry.”

Either way, a huge surprise. And probably there will be some good results if id and Bethesda will share some of their experience!