Unity Technology has been forced to cancel several town hall meetings due to death threats made against their offices. The game engine developers have closed two offices that were deemed likely targets and are fully cooperating with law enforcement. Unity has taken immediate measures to ensure the safety of their employees.
The threats come in the wake of Unity’s announcement of a new fee scheme, which has sparked outrage in the gaming community. The plan includes charging $0.20 per install for its Personal and Plus versions, potentially resulting in developers owing more money to Unity than they would make in profits. The new pay-per-install plan is set to begin on January 1, 2024.
Unity has tried to explain that only around 10% of their clientele will be affected by the fee changes and that developers will only pay once for an installation, without being forced into an ongoing revenue share model. However, these explanations have not quelled the backlash.
Adding fuel to the fire, Unity’s CEO, John Riccitiello, sold 2000 shares just six days before the fee announcement. He has sold a total of 50,000 shares this year without purchasing any.
Unity Technology is currently working with authorities to address the threats and ensure the safety of their employees. They have closed targeted offices and are fully cooperating with law enforcement. Dot Esports has reached out to Unity for further details.
| Date | Time | Score |
|---|---|---|
| September 12, 2023 | N/A | Unity announces new fee scheme |
| September 14, 2023 | N/A | Outrage and backlash from gaming community |
| September 18, 2023 | N/A | Death threats made against Unity offices |
| September 18, 2023 | N/A | Town hall meetings canceled |
| September 18, 2023 | N/A | Unity closes targeted offices |
| September 18, 2023 | N/A | Unity fully cooperating with law enforcement |
| January 1, 2024 | N/A | New pay-per-install plan set to begin |
Source: DOTESPORTS
