Even after some clarification following the initial backlash, many developers still have questions about the upcoming extra fees. The biggest issue with the announcement of the Runtime Fee, besides its controversial nature, is poor communication and the lack of proper explanation on Unity’s part. Why do developers criticize the Runtime Fee? install-bombing), saying that it has “fraud detection practices in our Ads technology.”

Unity promises to protect developers from fraudulent and abusive practices (e.g.

Fees for games distributed via subscription services like Game Pass or PS Plus are said to be charged to distributors (Microsoft or Sony), not developers.

Demos are free of charge unless they include the download of the full game (as in the case of Early Access titles).

Charity games and charity bundles will be free of charge.

playing a game on Steam and then installing it on Steam Deck) Fees will be applied if the same user installs a title on another device (e.g.

Unity will only charge for an initial installation, so re-installs won’t count.

Devs using other Unity services like LevelPlay or Unity Gaming Services will be able to receive special discounts from the company.

Unity track installs with its “own proprietary data model,” although it is unclear how exactly it works or how developers will be able to verify this data.

We detailed all the changes in our article (link above), but here are the key points that take into account further clarification from Unity: After that, the company will charge $0.20 for every install above the threshold. On September 12, Unity announced the so-called Runtime Fee, which will be charged for every install above certain thresholds starting January 1, 2024.įor example, for devs using the free Unity Personal plan the criteria are $200k in revenue in the last 12 months AND 200k lifetime downloads.

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