Unity’s Biggest Games: The Big Names Who’ll Pay the Biggest Bucks

Game creation platform and tools provider Unity has experienced a significant shift in public opinion this week. What was once a beloved enabler has turned into a PR nightmare with the proposed introduction of the Unity Runtime Fee. This new fee structure, which charges per install for the first time, has the potential to cost developers of all sizes millions of dollars in lost revenue.

Curious about which popular games could find themselves in deep debt if this controversial fee structure is implemented? Take a closer look at the top ten highest grossing iOS games in the US. While not every game on the list is developed using Unity (kudos to Dragon Ball Z Dokkan Battle, Candy Crush Saga, Roblox, and Gardenscapes which use other engines), the rest are likely to be affected.

Monopoly GO – Scopely

Scopely’s casual mobile adaptation of the classic board game, Monopoly GO, has been a massive success. However, since the game runs on Unity and continues to generate substantial downloads and revenue, the developer might be in for an unpleasant surprise if Unity’s new fees come into effect.

Royal Match – Dream Games

Royal Match has unexpectedly surpassed the once-untouchable Candy Crush Saga in terms of downloads and revenue. Unfortunately for Dream Games, this remarkable success means that they could potentially face significant fees if Unity’s new structure materializes.

It’s worth mentioning that despite being dethroned by Royal Match, King, the developer of Candy Crush Saga, may have the last laugh. The game runs on their own fee-free 2D specialized engine.

Call of Duty Mobile – Activision Blizzard

Call of Duty Mobile, owned by Activision Blizzard, is facing uncertainties due to Microsoft’s ongoing and unresolved acquisition of the company. It’s safe to assume that any revenue streams from this game will be fiercely protected if Unity proceeds with its new fees. Legal challenges may arise, especially considering the importance of mobile gaming for Microsoft. With a lifetime revenue of $3 billion, any threat to Call of Duty Mobile’s future earnings could further complicate the acquisition deal.

Pokemon Go – Niantic

Niantic, the creator of Pokemon Go, may still be searching for its next big hit, but Pokemon Go continues to generate substantial revenue. Unfortunately for Niantic, both Pokemon Go and their upcoming game, Monster Hunter Now, rely on Unity as their engine. This means that Niantic has a lot to lose, considering they’ve already accumulated over $5 billion in lifetime revenue and secured a spot on the top 10 highest grossing games list.

Whiteout Survival – Century Games

Whiteout Survival, developed by Century Games, may not be as well-known as other games on this list, but it serves as a reminder of the widespread usage of the Unity engine. It also highlights how smaller studios can create big, potentially cross-platform hits thanks to the benefits offered by Unity.

Coin Master – Moon Active

Rounding out the top ten earners on iOS is Coin Master, a game that could potentially face Unity fees. Coin Master experienced significant growth in users, revenue, and marketing spend during the pandemic, even attracting famous faces to their advertising campaign. Their efforts paid off, as the game has accumulated over $2 billion in lifetime revenue.

With Unity considering changes to its fee structure, it remains uncertain how these established giants of the gaming industry will be affected. Regardless, there are undoubtedly some big names in the industry who will be concerned about parting with a substantial amount of money come January 1, 2024.