The announcement of Unity’s new pricing structure has sparked outrage among game developers, with many calling on their players to protest the changes. Under the new structure, developers who reach a certain threshold of revenue or game installations will be charged every time somebody installs their game. This has led several teams to consider switching to other game engines, such as Godot or Unreal. Developers argue that the new fees pose a significant financial risk for indie developers and do not benefit them in any way.
The Concerns of Indie Developers
FrogteamGames, the developer behind Frogsong, expressed their concerns about the new pricing structure. They stated that while their game is not currently close to the revenue threshold, the future development in Unity has become a financial risk for indie developers like themselves. They highlighted that free downloads, such as giveaways, charity bundles, and platforms like GamePass, would be too high of a financial risk under the new pricing structure. FrogteamGames urged players to stand with indie games and call for Unity to reverse these harmful changes.
Innersloth, the developer of the popular game Among Us, also expressed their disappointment in Unity’s new pricing structure. They stated that the changes would harm not only them but fellow game studios of all budgets and sizes. Innersloth even mentioned that they would delay content and features in their game to port it elsewhere if the changes were implemented. They called on Unity to reconsider their decision, emphasizing the negative impact it could have on the industry.
AGGRO CRAB, the creator of Another Crab’s Treasure, expressed concerns about the impact of the new fees on their business. They mentioned that their highly anticipated game would be free to install for the 25 million Game Pass subscribers. However, Unity could impose a fee that significantly affects their income and threatens the sustainability of their business, especially when considering sales on other platforms and pirated installs. AGGRO CRAB warned that studios might have to consider abandoning Unity for future titles if the changes are not rolled back.
One of the biggest concerns raised by developers is how Unity will distinguish between legitimate installs and pirated copies of games. There is also the issue of players reinstalling games multiple times to negatively impact developers, known as “install bombing.” Unity has not provided detailed information about how their system works, leading to a lack of trust from developers. Publishers are also expressing reservations about publishing Unity games if the new pricing structure takes effect, highlighting the importance of including the engine used in game pitches.
The controversy surrounding Unity’s new pricing structure has put the company at odds with many game developers. The concerns raised by indie developers and publishers highlight the potential negative impact on the industry. Developers are considering switching to alternative game engines, and some have even stated that they will terminate projects and migrate to new engines if the changes are implemented. Unity’s decision to prioritize shareholders over their product’s actual users has sparked frustration, and developers are calling for a reversal of the new pricing structure.
The outcry from game developers over Unity’s new pricing structure demonstrates the significant impact these changes could have on the industry, particularly for indie developers. The financial risks and uncertainties associated with the new fees are causing developers to question their reliance on Unity for future projects. Unity must address the concerns raised by developers and work towards a solution that benefits both parties. Otherwise, they risk losing the trust and support of the very developers that have helped make the engine’s success possible.
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