Question: Are Unity Assets Royalty-Free?

Answer

Most assets purchased from the Unity Asset Store are royalty-free. This means that once you purchase an asset, you can use it in your game or project without having to pay ongoing royalties. However, you must adhere to the license agreement provided with the asset, which typically allows use in personal and commercial projects under certain conditions.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Asset Store Terms of Service: The specific terms for each asset may vary, so it's important to read the End User License Agreement (EULA) that accompanies each asset. Generally, the standard EULA permits the use of assets in multiple projects without additional fees, but does not allow the resale of raw assets.

2. Types of Licenses:

   • Standard License: Most assets come with a standard license, allowing use in both free and commercial games, as long as the assets are part of a larger project and not resold or distributed on their own.
   • Extension License: Some assets, especially those that are part of software tools, might require an extension license if used in a commercial product.

3. Exclusivity: When you buy an asset, you're not buying exclusive rights to it. Other developers can also purchase and use the same assets in their projects.

4. Distribution Restrictions: You generally cannot distribute the asset, such as 3D models or audio files, in a way that other people can extract and use them freely; they must be part of a compiled project.

5. Modifications: You are usually allowed to modify the assets according to your needs.

Here's an example of how you might see this reflected in a typical asset store EULA clause:

You are free to use the asset in any number of personal and commercial projects for yourself or a client. The asset may not be redistributed on its own, or used in a template or sold as stock.

To summarize, while Unity Asset Store purchases typically do not incur royalties, it is crucial to understand the specific terms of the asset's license to ensure compliance with the seller's and Unity's agreements. Always check the current policy at the time of your purchase, as licensing terms can change or may differ between assets and sellers.