"We were there in the 80s for the crash, and this is definitely crashier." John and Brenda Romero reflect on the industry crisis

March 28, 2026 - 11:46

Legendary game designers John Romero and Brenda Romero have offered a stark perspective on the current turmoil in the video game industry, comparing it unfavorably to the infamous crash of the 1980s. Having lived through that historic downturn, their assessment is chilling: the present crisis feels significantly worse.

The couple has experienced the harsh realities of the current climate firsthand. Their independent studio has been forced to undergo dramatic downsizing as funding sources evaporated, a story echoing across countless development teams this year. Despite the severe financial pressures and widespread layoffs that have defined 2024, their resolve remains unbroken.

They describe an atmosphere of profound uncertainty, where even stable-seeming companies are affected. However, their commitment to the craft of game development is absolute. The pair emphasizes a determination to continue creating, adapting to a vastly changed landscape, and coding through the challenges. Their stance is one of gritty perseverance, aiming to survive the downturn and help steer the industry toward a more sustainable future, regardless of the immediate difficulties. Their experience serves as both a warning from history and a testament to enduring passion in a deeply volatile creative field.