After the “dispute” between Unity and the development studio Improbable (SpatialOS), Unity has now announced changes to the terms of use for the engine. New MMORPGs are henceforth safe.
Apparently, the company is bowing to the pressure that Improbable built up through a joint action with Epic Games.
Improbable vs Unity
What happened? After a change in the terms of use at Unity, it was no longer allowed to use third-party software like the wonder technology SpatialOS. Because no parts of the Unity engine could be executed or simulated in the cloud or via streaming to create a platform. Improbable spread the fear that MMORPGs using Unity and SpatialOS were in danger. One affected MMO could have been Worlds Adrift.
However, Unity contradicted this. All games that already use SpatialOS are safe. Only in the future, it will no longer be allowed to use the software in this manner.
Subsequently, Improbable formed a partnership with Epic Games. Both companies announced a program that should motivate development studios to switch to the Unreal Engine. A fund of $25 million was even made available for the transition.
This is how Unity reacted: This step by Improbable and Epic Games has now led Unity to once again adjust the terms of use of the Unity engine. According to these, technologies like SpatialOS are allowed again, provided Unity gives approval.
According to Unity, third-party software is reviewed so that the company understands it and can ensure that the software works well with the Unity engine and always runs with the latest version of the engine. After the review, approval may follow.
Unity Gives In
Why did the change occur? According to Unity’s CTO Joachim Ante, the statements in the old terms of use did not come across as expected. After discussions with developers, it has now been adjusted to make it more understandable. Unity hopes that studios that have been considering switching to the Unreal Engine will reconsider. Because their projects are no longer in danger.
How are developers reacting? There is still some skepticism as Unity CEO John Riccitiello stated that the terms of use can be adjusted at any time because we live in a time where technology changes and develops so quickly.
Therefore, some studios now fear that they will constantly have to update their games to the latest version of the Unity engine to maintain their certification and must also agree to any potential changes in the terms of use. Development studios are still not completely satisfied. However, their MMORPGs are currently safe.
