Game developers using Unity are taking a stand against the company’s contentious fee update by turning off advertisements. Unity recently announced that starting from January 1, 2024, developers would be charged a flat fee per install, sparking widespread backlash within the industry.
In response to the proposed change, Unity attempted to clarify its fee structure but faced even more criticism when it was revealed that developers would be charged again if someone decided to redownload their game. This revelation raised concerns that people could intentionally incur charges to harm development companies.
Numerous game development companies, including Rust’s developers, have expressed their dissatisfaction with Unity. In a collective effort, a group of game developers has now announced that they are disabling “all IronSource and Unity Ads monetization” until the proposed changes are reconsidered.
To encourage others to join their cause, these game studios have issued a collective letter stating that “the rules have changed” and the “stakes are simply too high.” They likened the situation to a car manufacturer deciding to charge consumers for every mile driven after purchasing the vehicle a year ago.
The statement has been signed by 19 game development companies, including Supercent, TapNation, CrazyLabs, and Original Games. Their hope is that this united front will prompt Unity to reverse its fee update.
While the flat fee proposal itself is scandalous, the additional charges for re-downloads have raised further concerns. Streamer Mizkif, who is currently developing a game using Unity’s engine, expressed fears about potential hostile tactics being employed. There are also worries about subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and who would be responsible for the fees in such scenarios.
If Unity does not reverse its proposals, there may be a mass exodus of developers from the platform. The company has already faced backlash, with offices being shut down and a town hall meeting being canceled due to death threats.
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Source: DOTESPORTS
