While it first launched back in 2006, Roblox has evolved over the recent years into one of the most popular virtual playgrounds on the planet. At its core, Roblox is a gaming platform that allows you to play dozens of user-created games or create games through Roblox Studio. From role-playing games to rhythm titles and shooters, the platform is a toy box of experiences for all ages. It doesn’t hurt that Roblox also has a social media component that allows users to make friends, talk to developers of various user-created games or even join others in creating games.
Developed by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel, the platform now has an average monthly user base of 214 million players per month while making around $7 million per day. It’s proven popular enough for major brands to create their own Roblox experiences, including Forever 21, Kellogg’s, Chipotle and even Sega. Anyone who has walked into a convenience store or grocery store with a gift card aisle has definitely seen Robux cards at least once.
Remaining at the forefront of conversations regarding the “metaverse,” Roblox is reshaping how people interact with virtual worlds. It doesn’t matter if users are core or casual gamers, aspiring developers or interested in just exploring, the platform has something for everybody. However, it can be significantly overwhelming at the start. That’s why we’re here to help ease you into the world of Roblox.
How does Roblox work?
The first thing users interested in Roblox should do is create a free account. Be mindful that the platform does require children under the age of 18 to have parental consent. Concerned parents can rest a bit knowing that the platform does have various parental controls available to manage game settings and communication options. There’s even a pin system on top of login options to make sure younger players don’t get into places they don’t belong.
After setting up an account, users will create an avatar with selectable hairstyles, clothing options and accessories. Though there are dozens of free options, some of the cooler looks may require Robux, the game’s premium currency. Once users are done with their profiles, the platform has plenty of games and experiences to choose from. Besides an in-game featured section by the developers, there’s an adequate search tool if account holders are looking for a specific type of world to dive into.
Aspiring game developers or those looking to possibly make money on the platform can utilize Roblox Studio. There is a robust set of tools and options for users to create their own games or worlds within Roblox. Most importantly, its setup works well for beginner and advanced users alike.
As users interact with various games and experiences, they can make friends and socialize through Roblox’s extensive social media-like capabilities. There are groups and chat rooms where people can connect with others, alongside accepting or sending friend requests.
What do I need to play Roblox?
Roblox is currently available on several platforms, including Windows, MacOS, Xbox, iOS, Android and even Meta Quest in beta through App Lab. Though the platform is fairly consistent between devices, optimization alongside hardware limitations may lead to differences.
The most optimal way to enjoy Roblox is through Windows and MacOS. Those versions offer comprehensive experiences despite making up less than a quarter of users. There is a full range of games, experiences and features available this way compared to other devices. Users also get full access to Roblox Studio as well. Making up Roblox’s smallest user base, the Xbox version is the only console version available for the platform at the current moment. Players are provided a curated selection of games and can participate in cross-platform play too.
iOS and Android users make up the largest percentage of Roblox users at around 78%. Though hardware limitations prevent support for all games, the more popular ones like Adopt Me and Pet Simulator X are there. These versions also feature optimized touch controls as well as allowing users to have access to their inventory, avatar customization and friends list.
Currently in beta through App Lab, Roblox brings their experience into the world of virtual reality. Users with a Meta Quest 2 or Meta Quest Pro can enjoy various experiences with hand controllers and head movements. Windows users can toggle a VR mode for compatibility with the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and Valve Index. Just be mindful that not all games are compatible with VR, so it’s best to search for games with specific VR tags.
What are Robux?
Robux allow players to purchase items and even access entire games within the Roblox ecosystem. Robux gift cards are sold in a wide range of increments, starting at $10 and going all the way to $200.
Robux is the in-game currency that is core to Roblox. Users can purchase various items, accessories, avatar upgrades and developer products and can even access games within the platform’s ecosystem. Users can acquire Robux by buying them directly through the app and buying digital or physical gift cards that can range between $10 and $200. The cool thing about buying gift cards is that they also usually come with a free in-game item as well. Here is the current conversion rate for gift cards:
- $4.99 = 400 Robux
- $9.99 = 800 Robux
- $19.99 = 1,700 Robux
- $49.99 = 4,500 Robux
- $99.99 = 10,000 Robux
There is a subscription-based premium membership for the most loyal Roblox users. Besides getting a recurring Robux allowance between $5 and $20 per month, there are other features of using the service, like exclusive avatar shop items, trading abilities with other players, a 10% boost on additional Robux purchases and more.
The other way to get Robux is through a marketplace with user-created items made in Roblox Studios. Users can sell virtual creations, game assets and other items to fellow players in exchange for the in-game currency. Robux can be exchanged for real cash through the Developer Exchange Program.
Here are some recommended Roblox games
It’s been reported that there are more than 40 million games and experiences available on Roblox. Many of them also come with experience badges (think Xbox Live Achievement Points or PlayStation Trophies). Dozens of worlds are created every day as well, so it can be a bit overwhelming once an account is made. Here are some games to potentially dive into once you’re all set up.
Adopt Me!
Creator Uplift Games has earned a reported 60 million dollars per year in microtransactions through its 160,000 average concurrent player count with Adopt Me!. The virtual pet simulator allows users to adopt and raise anything from a newborn baby to animals like dogs and cats.
Barry’s Prison Run
Barry’s Prison Run is an adventure game where players have to escape prison. Players will spend most of the 25 challenges in a first-person obstacle course with a few lighthearted first-person shooter sections.
Mega Easy Obby
Featuring 825 unique stages, Mega Easy Obby is an adventure platformer obby game. Obby-style games are obstacle course-style games that are inspired by Fall Guys. There are even difficulty settings from easy to hard.
Murder Mystery 2
Murder Mystery 2 is a user-created take on the popular multiplayer game Among Us. Ten “Innocents” run and hide from one “Murderer” whose goal is to kill everyone. Standing between Murderer and Innocents is a Sheriff who is the only one with a weapon.
Arsenal
Arsenal is inspired by the Arms Race mode from Counter Strike: Global Offensive. Two teams of players attempt to score 32 kills in a set amount of time. The game’s gimmick comes from players having their weapons swapped for each kill. As players get close to winning, players must kill other players with the Golden Gun on their 31st kill and Golden Knife on the 32nd to win the game.
Brookhaven RP
Probably the most popular experience on Roblox, Brookhaven RP is a life simulator where users explore a big open world. Players can own and live in houses, drive cars, work jobs or simply explore a city.
Bottom line
Roblox has become one of the most unique outlets of creative expression within the digital world. It’s easy to understand why the platform has millions of monthly users willing to spend a lot of money on Robux.
The platform is filled to the brim with various games and experiences alongside a huge community that’s constantly growing. From young ages to adults, the amount of enjoyment content available can be staggering. Creating and customizing avatars, meeting new people and creating through Roblox Studio only add to the experience.
