2023-09-14 19:36:55
Independent developers have raised their voices against the implementation of the Unity tax. This change could penalize this industry in the near future.
The design of a video game must go through an engine. This tool is essential to provide a realistic rendering in order to satisfy players. The giants of the sector can pay an astronomical sum to achieve these objectives. However, some independent developers need to seek help from a game engine company. But Unity Technologies has added a fee to this specific device.
Video game enthusiasts will never forget the date of September 12, 2023. Indeed, Unity Technologies announced the tax in an official press release.
The free version of the game engine will experience new regulations. Certainly, the first uses do not require payment, but the Unity tax will apply from 200,000 dollars of profitability. This criterion concerns profits during the last 12 months taking into account the release of the game. The thresholds of 200,000 installations are also to be considered. To put it simply, the more profitable the game, the higher the taxes will be.
Unity Technologies has provided explanations regarding this new regulation. In fact, the amounts will add up if the same game is installed on several platforms.
However, developers will not support games purchased through subscriptions. It is the service providers who will pay the amount.
The amounts set by Unity Technologies
The Unity tax then amounts to $0.15 per installation for the Pro version. of the game engine. Note that the latter was already a paid tool. A considerable sum, considering the thousands of sales after launch.
However, the most affected are independent developers. Indeed, the majority use Unité Personnel, the free version of the game engine. The tax is set at 0,20 dollar par installation.
In all cases, revenue and facility thresholds must always be taken into account
Unity’s new tax does not pass on to developers
The Aggro Crab studio is the first to demonstrate against these regulations. With his new title “Another Crab’s Treasure”, Unity’s tax could amount to thousands of dollars. Indeed, the developers predict 25 million installations after the game’s release.
Then, several studios followed suit. Massive Monster will take drastic action if Unity Technologies maintains its position. His new game, Cult of the Lamb would be removed from the market, as of 1is January 2024. Note that this is the Unity tax application date.
Other institutions have outright decided to go to the competition. Indeed, theUnreal Engine d’Epic Games is still a reference, but without significant taxes.
Faced with these demonstrations, Unity Technologies reacted. The studio will only pay one fee, even if the player reinstalls the game after uninstalling. A first step towards an agreement between the stakeholders.
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