Unity Gaming Services Launched - Simplify Cross-Platform Development
Unity Launches Beta of Gaming Services Platform
Unity, a leading platform for creating 2D and 3D content across various devices – including mobile phones, tablets, PCs, consoles, and AR/VR headsets – has initiated a beta program for Unity Gaming Services. This new platform is designed to provide game developers with a comprehensive suite of tools for backend support, monetization, user acquisition, and player engagement.
Addressing the Growing Multiplayer Market
The updated platform aims to streamline the development and launch of cross-platform, multiplayer games. This segment is experiencing significant growth, exemplified by popular titles such as Roblox, Genshin Impact, and Fortnite.
Global Availability and Early Adoption
Currently accessible worldwide, Unity Gaming Services already has over 100 developers utilizing the platform, according to Ingrid Lestiyo, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Operate Solutions at Unity. She shared this information with TechCrunch.
Key Features for Live Game Development
The new tools empower developers to build and maintain live games of any scale. A key benefit is the ability to synchronize game logic with Unity’s backend services without requiring a full platform release.
Multiplayer Functionality
Among the provided resources are features essential for multiplayer gameplay. These include player connection, lobby creation, online matchmaking, and integrated voice and chat capabilities.
Simplified Multiplayer Game Creation
“We are now the quickest route to developing cross-platform multiplayer games,” stated Lestiyo to TechCrunch. “Launching a multiplayer game is achievable with just a few clicks directly within the Unity editor.”
Flexible and Interoperable Tools
The platform is designed to accommodate teams of all sizes, allowing them to select and combine products based on their specific requirements. Furthermore, the interoperability of these products enhances both the developer experience and the quality for players.
Performance Monitoring and Actionable Insights
Developers will gain access to a unified dashboard providing a comprehensive overview of their game’s performance. This includes actionable insights to optimize their game.
Monetization and Growth Tools
Tools are also included to facilitate game monetization and growth, supporting in-app purchases, advertising integration, and user acquisition strategies.
Centralized Game Performance Analysis
“Regardless of the complexity of their tools or content, developers can now monitor their game’s performance through a single, interconnected interface,” Lestiyo explained.
Beta Access and Scalable Pricing
Unity Game Services is currently available to all developers free of charge during its beta phase. A pay-as-you-scale pricing model will be implemented as the platform matures. It supports Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Console Support Coming Soon
Console support is presently available on an invitation-only basis, but will be broadly accessible in the near future, as indicated by Lestiyo.
Future Partnerships
Lestiyo refrained from commenting on potential partnership agreements at this time, but encouraged developers and studios of all sizes to explore the capabilities of the new Unity Gaming Services platform.
Addressing Developer Challenges
“Our core mission is to empower our developers, who are navigating an increasingly complex landscape. This reality demands meeting growing player expectations for cross-platform multiplayer experiences, while also requiring significant cloud networking expertise and overcoming substantial technical and operational hurdles that extend beyond game design itself,” Lestiyo stated.
Expanding the Gaming Industry
“By reducing the barriers to entry for developers to launch more multiplayer games, Unity Gaming Service will contribute to the overall expansion of the gaming industry and increase the variety of titles available to players,” Lestiyo added.
Unity’s Extensive User Base
As of June 2021, Unity reported having over 3.4 billion monthly active users.
