Unity ends support for Ziva Dynamics as part of company reset to focus on its core products

Unity has decided to end the support for Ziva Dynamics, a set of tools used for simulation, deformation, and real-time 3D character creation. As a result, the engine maker will sell the license to VFX company DNEG.

Announced in a blog post, Unity noted that it will no longer sell or support Ziva VFX, Ziva Real-Time, Ziva Face Trainer, and other Ziva-related products.

“This decision is a part of our ongoing company reset,” the company said, adding that it is now focused on its core products: the Unity Editor and Runtime (engine), Unity Cloud, and Monetization Solutions. “By focusing on these few areas, we believe we can best serve our community’s needs.”

Last year, shortly after the Runtime Fee controversy and resignation of CEO John Riccitiello, Unity started a business restructuring to reduce its workforce and office footprint, as well as to discontinue certain products in its portfolio. In January 2024, the company decided to lay off 1,800 employees as part of its strategy to refocus on its core business and “position itself for long-term and profitable growth.”

Unity acquired Ziva Dynamics in 2022. After the support ends, existing subscribers will have an option to convert their license to a five-year term to continue using the product.

VFX company DNEG also entered into an agreement with Unity to acquire the exclusive perpetual license to Ziva. The terms of the deal remain undisclosed, but the engine maker will retain ownership of all the technology.

In its statement, DNEG noted that it will be onboarding a “significant proportion of the Ziva team. “This is an important area of growth for DNEG and will further enhance our digital character and creature work, not just for film and episodic work, but for real-time and immersive applications too,” DNEG CTO Paul Salvini said.

Ziva Dynamics is not the only subsidiary abandoned by Unity. Last year, it also terminated its agreement with VFX company Wētā FX, which it acquired for $1.62 billion in 2021. The move was expected to affect 265 employees.