John Romero Reflects on Alternate Game Development Path

In a recent episode of Nightdive Studios' Deep Dive podcast, John Romero, renowned for co-creating the iconic game Doom, shared intriguing insights into a career decision that might have dramatically altered the trajectory of the gaming industry. The year was 1989, and Romero was approached by Paul Neurath, a colleague at Origin Systems, with an invitation to join him in founding a new venture. This studio, initially named Blue Sky Productions, would eventually evolve into the influential Looking Glass Studios.

Romero, who had joined Origin in 1987 to work on the Commodore 64 port of the RPG 2400 AD—although the project was eventually canceled—focused his efforts on the sci-fi flight simulator Space Rogue. As this project neared its completion, Romero and Neurath began contemplating new business ventures. It was during this pivotal moment that Neurath proposed joining forces.

Career Crossroads

Despite the enticing prospect, Romero had already made a commitment a week prior to start a company with his manager. This path led to the creation of Inside Out Software, setting Romero on the course to later co-found the legendary id Software. Reflecting on this decision, Romero speculated on the potential impact had he chosen a different path, possibly working on hallmark titles like Thief with Looking Glass instead of breaking new ground with first-person shooters.

Under different circumstances, the creative force behind Doom and Wolfenstein might have contributed to the stealth-based mechanics that defined Looking Glass Studios' games. Romero remarked on the imagination of blending stealth concepts within the Doom environment, which could have ushered in an entirely new era for the shooter genre.

Paul Neurath's role as a visionary in the gaming industry, instrumental in establishing Looking Glass, underscores the crossroads faced by Romero. The decision to follow a different path and form a partnership with his manager opened the gateway to new ventures and eventually led to the formation of id Software, the birthplace of benchmarks in the industry.

This reflection offers a glimpse into the fluid nature of creative success, exemplifying how a single decision can pivot influential careers. Whether influenced by fate or choice, Romero's path has undeniably left an indelible mark on the gaming world.

Update: 22 Aug 2025