Unity Reverts to Seat-Based Subscription Model, Scraps Runtime Fee

Unity has announced that it will be moving away from its controversial Runtime Fee model and returning to its previous seat-based subscription system. This decision comes after facing significant backlash from developers in the gaming community.

The Runtime Fee was introduced last year, with the intention of charging developers based on the number of installations once specific thresholds were reached. However, this policy was met with widespread criticism, leading to protests and even threats of developers leaving the platform. This backlash ultimately contributed to the departure of former CEO John Riccitiello in 2023 and Unity Create head Marc Whitten in May 2024.

Restoring Trust and Addressing Concerns

Unity’s new CEO, Matthew Bromberg, aims to restore trust with the user base. In a blog post, Bromberg stated, “I’ve heard time and time again that you want a strong Unity, and understand that price increases are a necessary part of what enables us to invest in moving gaming forward. But those increases needn’t come in a novel and controversial new form.”

As part of the changes, Unity Personal will remain free, with an increased revenue and funding ceiling of $200,000. This adjustment provides developers with more room before being subject to Unity’s fees. Additionally, the Made with Unity splash screen will be optional for games developed with Unity 6, set to launch later this year.

Price Increases and Predictable Pricing Structure

Starting January 1, 2025, Unity Pro will see an 8% price increase, bringing the annual subscription fee to $2,200 per seat. Unity Enterprise users will face a 25% increase, with new minimum subscription requirements for customers generating over $25 million in annual revenue. These pricing changes will apply to both new and existing subscriptions from the specified date.

Bromberg emphasized the company’s commitment to a more predictable pricing structure going forward. “Canceling the Runtime Fee for games and instituting these pricing changes will allow us to continue investing to improve game development for everyone while also being better partners,” Bromberg highlighted in his blog post.