Unity 5 was released globally just a few short months ago and included many improvements, from introducing the Unity Cloud Build that provides developers with an opportunity to boost productivity and efficiency, to an updated editor. Now, Unity 5.1 is ready to be downloaded, improving on two of Unity 5's key strengths: multiplatform support and the efficiency offered by the cloud.
Unity 5.1 offers a host of new features to allow developers better multiplatform support for the games they are creating, making something like the transition from iOS to PC, or vice versa, much easier. Also included is the Unity Multiplayer Service, which will allow for things like matchmaking. Currently it is still in preview, but still offers the service for free for up to 100 concurrent users.
Unity 5.1 also introduces expanded VR support, specifically for the Oculus Rift right now. Soon, support for things like the Microsoft Hololens and Gear VR will be coming. Right now, 5.1 will have many features ready to go, but expect the service to expand its offerings in the near future.
There are also general improvements across the board, including fixing over 170 bugs. There are also many improvements to API usabilities and workflows, focusing on 2D and animation features. Unity 5.1 also improves on the use of OpenGL, making analyzing and fixing bugs on mobile much easier.
The trend continues as well with Unity 5.1 also being free to download. Unity is free for anyone to use up to $100,000 in sales and funding. If you have any interest, you can download it yourself and give it a whirl. Though, certain features are behind a paywall with Unity Pro, which costs $75 a month or a one time fee of $1500.
What do you think of Unity as an engine? Where does it fall in line with other engines? Will you be looking forward to more games made with Unity 5.1? What sort of improvements would you personally like to see?
