What do kids really think about Roblox? Dive deep into the popular online platform.
Roblox has taken the world by storm, becoming one of the most popular online platforms for kids. With its wide array of games and virtual experiences, it offers endless entertainment to its 380 million monthly active users. But while Roblox is free-to-play, its monetization strategies, such as in-game purchases, virtual currencies, and random reward mechanics, have sparked debate about their impact on young users.
In this blog, we'll explore what kids think about Roblox, the potential dangers of its spending features, and how parents can ensure a safe experience for their kids.
What is Roblox?
Roblox, launched in 2006, is a user-generated content platform that allows players to create, share, and explore virtual worlds. It bills itself as the "ultimate virtual universe" that lets you create, share experiences with friends, and become anything you can imagine.
The platform is particularly popular with children, with 42% of its players under the age of 13. In 2024, a study found that Australian children between the ages of 4 and 18 spent an average of 137 minutes per day on Roblox. However, its popularity has also drawn scrutiny with concerns about grooming, child abuse, and the ethics of its monetization strategies.
Free to play, but plenty to pay.
While Roblox is free to join, it makes billions of dollars annually through in-game purchases. Players can purchase the platform's virtual currency, Robux, to purchase cosmetic items, functional upgrades, and VIP passes. Some games also have random reward mechanics, such as loot boxes, that offer chance-based outcomes.
In 2024, Australia banned loot boxes for users under 15, but researchers found that many popular Roblox games still contain these mechanics. This has raised concerns about whether these features mimic gambling behavior and exploit young players.
What do kids think of Roblox?
To better understand how children interact with Roblox, researchers conducted interviews with 22 children (and their parents) between the ages of 7 and 14 between November 2023 and July 2024. Children were given a $20 debit card to spend as they pleased, and the study revealed:
1. Kids value their Roblox purchases.
Children expressed a strong attachment to their in-game purchases, viewing them as meaningful investments in their virtual identities. For many people, buying or upgrading cosmetic items was a way to stand out and express themselves.
2. Random rewards feel like "childish gambling."
Many children described random reward systems, such as loot boxes, as "childish gambling." These mechanics often make them feel frustrated or lost when they don't get the items they want. One kid even said, "It's literally just kid's gambling."
3. Complex transactions and "scary" virtual currencies
Kids found the process of converting real money into Robux and then into game-specific currencies confusing and overwhelming. Some described the experience as "terrifying," highlighting the lack of transparency in these transactions.
4. Frustration with scams and refund policies.
Children and parents alike expressed frustration at what they perceived as a "scam" and "cash grab." The platform's inflexible refund policy added to their dissatisfaction, giving them little recourse for accidental or regrettable purchases.
Broader implications of Roblox's monetization strategies
This study highlights the potential pitfalls of monetized random reward systems, particularly for children who do not fully understand the risks involved. Although concerns about the mechanics behind gambling problems are still being researched, the immediate impact on children's emotional well-being is clear.
Roblox has responded to these concerns by saying that it provides tools and guidelines for developers to comply with local regulations. However, the platform's reliance on user-generated content makes it difficult to enforce uniform standards across all games.
How Parents Can Protect Their Children on Roblox
With Roblox’s increasing monetization tactics, parents must take proactive steps to ensure responsible spending:
1. Enable Parental Controls
Roblox offers built-in parental controls that allow you to restrict spending, limit in-game chat, and block access to certain content. To set up these controls, go to the settings menu on your child's account and adjust the security preferences accordingly.2. Educate Your Child About Digital Spending
Teaching children about the value of money in the digital world is crucial. Explain how Robux purchases translate to real-world money and why they should be cautious with their spending. Help them understand that random reward systems do not guarantee valuable prizes.3. Monitor Expenses and Set Spending Limits
Regularly check your child's Roblox account transaction history to ensure they are not overspending or making unauthorized purchases. Setting a monthly Robux budget and using prepaid gift cards instead of linking a credit card can prevent unexpected expenses.4. Report Issues and Scams
If you or your child encounter suspicious transactions, in-game scams, or inappropriate content, report them immediately through Roblox's official reporting system. Roblox has a dedicated team that reviews reports and takes action against violations of its policies.Why Roblox's Spending Features Matter
Roblox's monetization strategy isn't just a concern for parents—it also raises important questions about consumer protection and child safety. By understanding how children perceive and interact with platforms, we can work to create a safer digital environment for young users.
Final thoughts
Roblox offers a creative and engaging platform for kids, but its monetization strategy comes with significant risks. From random rewards that feel like "child gambling" to complicated virtual currencies, the platform's spending features can frustrate and mislead kids.
As a parent, it's important to be aware and take proactive steps to protect your child. By enabling parental controls, educating your child, and monitoring their spending, you can help ensure that their experience on Roblox is both fun and safe.
