Unity has decided to abandon a controversial fee that it was charging game developers, opting instead to focus on a seat-based subscription fee for its game engine software. Initially, the company had implemented a runtime fee that would make developers pay each time their game was installed, sparking swift and intense backlash within the industry. Following outrage and threats of abandonment, Unity apologized and made changes to the policy. However, the fallout from the fee led to the departure of CEO John Riccitiello and subsequent layoffs at the company. Current CEO Matt Bromberg is now working to rebuild trust with developers by removing the loathed runtime fee, effective immediately. The Unity Personal plan will remain free for developers with revenue under $200,000, while Pro and Enterprise users will face price increases. Moving forward, Unity plans to consider price increases on an annual basis and offer flexibility for developers who do not agree with changes to the software. Bromberg expressed confidence that eliminating the runtime fee and adjusting pricing will benefit developers and strengthen the company’s partnership with them in the long term.
