Unity backtracks on controversial Runtime Fee, takes major step in restoring eroded trust
Last year, Unity introduced a fee that would charge game developers on a per-install basis.
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Unity just canceled its controversial Runtime Fee. One year afterannouncing the feethat charged developers on a per-install basis, Unity has backtracked from the change. When announced, the Runtime Fee sparked controversy and complaints, eroded consumer trust in Unity, and ultimately resulted in Unity’s CEO leaving the company. Now, it appears the new Unity CEO and the rest of the company want to rebuild the trust they lost.
“After deep consultation with our community, customers, and partners, we’ve made the decision to cancel the Runtime Fee for our games customers, effective immediately,“said Unity President and CEO Matt Bromberg.
The CEO referred to consultation with the community over the past three months and how feedback shaped the decision to end the Runtime Fee. Following that feedback, Unity will revert to its seat-based subscription model. Bromberg outlined the pricing structure for Unity going forward:
Unity is a popular engine for game development, due in part to its relatively low fees. There are big-name titles powered by Unity, but the Runtime Fee presented a particular challenge for smaller teams.
Last year after Unity apologized for the Runtime Fee (but kept the fee in place for some), the company was left with eroded trust by the gaming community.
“Obviously it’s good that Unity is making any changes and listening somewhat, but the sheer nature of how things unfolded makes it hard to not be cynical about this company,” said our Samuel Tolbert at the time.
“Trust between Unity and developers wasn’t damaged, it was shattered entirely, and while this move certainly assuages fears around existing games, it doesn’t do anything to assure a publisher or indie dev that this kind of thing won’t happen in the future.”
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Now that Unity has backtracked entirely on the Runtime Fee, we’ll have to see if the opinions of gamers and those in the industry changes.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
