During QuakeCon 2026, id Software co-founder John Romero revealed how the studio handled Doom piracy in Taiwan. According to Adrenaline, rather than fighting the unauthorized distribution groups, id Software chose to support them in some way.
The story goes back to the 90s, when Doom launched using the shareware model, allowing players free access to the first levels before deciding whether to purchase the full version. Despite this open distribution strategy, the game also circulated through piracy channels in countries like Taiwan.
Romero's disclosure shows an unconventional approach for that era: instead of suing or attempting to stop piracy, the studio opted to work with unofficial distributors, recognizing that spreading the game had strategic value for the franchise.
The story highlights the creative business practices of the 90s game industry, when digital distribution did not exist and global reach depended on alternative channels, including piracy networks that paradoxically helped popularize titles worldwide.
