Unity 6.1: First Patch Now Available

Company Unity Technologies released Unity 6.1, marking the beginning of a new strategy for game engine updates. This release continues the focus on stability и performance, and brings a host of new features for developers. The update is now available for download via the Unity Hub.

Now all Unity releases are divided into two categories: LTS versions for long-term support and intermediate supported updates, like Unity 6.1. Unlike the old "Tech Stream", the new versions undergo the same thorough testing as the LTS and are suitable for commercial projects.

Among the key new features in Unity 6.1 is the improved Deferred+ mode for the Universal Render Pipeline, which, thanks to Lighting clustering allows you to process more light sources. The engine also received support Variable Rate Shading (VRS), a technology that improves productivity GPU without loss of image quality.

Workflows have also changed: a new project auditor helps identify errors and optimize assets, and build automation is now available directly from the editor. Platform improvements affected Android (support for foldable devices), Web (experimental Web integrationGPU), as well as the XR direction and consoles, where they significantly increased performance through DirectX 12 optimizations.

Unity says all updates undergo at least two months of regression testing and are verified in real game projects - partners include Konami, Black Salt Games and 10 Chambers.