Roblox is an imagination platform that empowers children to build games, play together and collaborate online. With over 64 million active users worldwide and available across computers, tablets, phones and electronic game consoles such as XBox One; games vary from creating theme parks or dream homes through murder mysteries, survival scenarios and competitions to social interactions via chat areas which encourage online collaboration – launched back in 2007 it’s now recommended for 12+ players with parental guidance advised for playback.
Robux, the platform’s virtual currency, can be earned by playing games or purchased with real money and used to unlock games, buy in-game items and personalise avatars. Players can even earn a salary from this platform by creating and selling their own games – some children have even started businesses that earn millions annually!
CREATION | It is popular among children because it enables them to express their creativity freely in an environment in which anything goes. Children can build games that reflect their interests and experiences – be it exploring a fictional city or embarking on pirate adventures – as well as address issues important to them – such as grieving a loss in the family, anxiety and depression.
Roblox games can be highly addictive and children may spend extended amounts of time online without adult monitoring, so it is vital for parents to be aware of potential risks and set clear boundaries around game play for their kids. Furthermore, parents must communicate openly and honestly with their kids regarding how much time is being spent online by each device they own.
One of the primary concerns regarding Roblox for children is bullying or exposure to inappropriate content, with algorithms filtering swearwords from chats as well as blocking names and addresses and providing a system for reporting abuse as some measures to help safeguard kids playing the platform. Roblox offers dedicated ‘For Parents’ sections which explain its mechanisms of protection for parents in this regard.
Roblox offers its community events such as tournaments, charity auctions and concerts; last year’s Ready Player One event featured rapper Lil Nas X. These events may award players with exclusive items in their avatar shop or badges and allow them to meet celebrities at autograph sessions.
If you are concerned about your child’s Roblox gaming habits, try playing alongside them and in a shared space. Use parental controls and regularly check-in on them in order to help ensure they remain safe online. Discuss their gaming as part of wider digital literacy skills development such as how to identify advertising and avoid scams.