How might Xbox’s shift to franchise-focused planning affect development resources for new or smaller id Software projects?
Shifting planning to focus on strongest franchises means resources will be redirected toward high-priority series like Doom and Quake, so new or smaller id Software projects are likely to receive fewer development resources and investment. The article says investment is being shifted to higher priority projects and that planning will center on franchise content roadmaps rather than what each independent studio develops next. Answered
What roles or specialties were most affected by the id Software layoffs that would impact restarting these shelved projects?
The layoffs cut over half of id Software's team, chiefly removing roles outside its DOOM and Quake core work, including staff working on new-action design, concept and creative leads, and platform development for original and licensed IPs. Specifically affected specialties mentioned include the team led by studio co-director Hugo Martin on Fury (action design/gunplay/martial-arts combat), concept art and design personnel for Perfect Dark, and the broader creative and development staff required to build those shelved projects. Answered