Unity Software, the popular game engine, has recently backtracked on its controversial plans to monetize the platform following severe backlash from the gaming community. Last week, the company sparked outrage after announcing a new policy that would charge developers for every installation of a game that utilizes the Unity engine.

However, Unity has now issued an apology for the lack of communication and has promised to make revisions to the policy. The revised policy will exempt charges for developers using Unity Personal or Plus plans, limiting fees only to Unity Pro and Unity Enterprise.

Furthermore, existing games will not be subject to the fees. The charges will only apply to games that are created or upgraded to the Long-Term Support (LTS) version, set to release in 2024 or later.

Another key change to the policy is that the updated fee will only be applicable once a game reaches a minimum of $1,000,000 in gross revenue and 1,000,000 initial engagements. This alteration aims to support smaller developers and alleviate financial burdens.

In response to the controversy, Marc Whitten, a representative from Unity, issued an apology. He emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting and investing in its game engine, acknowledging the negative impact caused by the initial policy announcement.

Unity’s change in plans comes at a time of sensitive circumstances for the company. Recently, Unity was forced to close two offices and cancel a town hall meeting due to a reported death threat. These incidents highlight the intense emotions surrounding the issue and the importance of clear communication between the company and its user base.

This reversal by Unity Software demonstrates the power of community backlash and the necessity for companies to listen to their users. The company’s revised policy, exempting smaller developers from fees and clarifying the circumstances under which charges will apply, showcases Unity’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for game creators.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve and adapt, Unity Software’s response to this controversy reflects the importance of open dialogue and understanding between developers and the companies that provide the tools they need to bring their visions to life.