For parents of gaming-crazed kids, it may seem like there’s a new online game released every week. Between Fortnite, World of Warcraft and Call of Duty, it can be quite difficult to keep up with the latest offerings. Well, now you can add one more to the mix.
Roblox is the latest gaming trend sweeping the world. Although it has been around for quite some time (it was released in 2006), it’s popularity really took off in 2020 — fueled, in part, by the Covid-19 pandemic.
As with all online games, parents have a right to be concerned about how they can let their kids spend time doing what they love, whilst ensuring online gaming safety. Whether you have only just heard of Roblox or have spent hours trying to convince your kids to switch off the tablet and take a look at their homework, read on to discover everything you need to know about this gaming platform.
What is Roblox?
Roblox is an online multiplayer gaming platform, through which users are invited to create and share their own games. It is an open-sandbox game, similar to Minecraft in terms of gameplay mechanics, and provides the opportunity for children to explore their creativity.
Roblox has been in the market for 12 years and has more than 100 million active players per month. It’s available for a range of platforms including PC, Mac, iOS, Android and Xbox One and has cross-play options, allowing players on different platforms to play together. The game is free, but it also features a virtual currency system and micropayments which allow players to buy different personalization elements for the game, such as clothes or new building materials.
Roblox Studio is the accompanying tool that is used to create different worlds and gameplay experiences. It is independent of the game and is only available for computers. It has a straightforward interface, as it is primarily designed to be used by children.
The risks of the Roblox
Roblox is incredibly popular amongst children as it is a creative and social way for them to interact with their peers online. Unfortunately, as with all online platforms, there is a certain element of risk associated with the game.
Content
Unlike other online platforms, Roblox doesn’t have a minimum sign-up age. It does, however, have security and privacy settings that vary based upon a user’s age. Parents should be present at the time that their child is creating their account to ensure that they enter the correct details.
This is important as Roblox has two main age brackets through which it filters content — under 13 and over 13. Whilst most games on Roblox are appropriate for all ages, correctly setting up your child’s profile will ensure that they are not able to access any kind of inappropriate content.
Chat
Roblox is both a gaming platform and a social media site. The chat function allows users to communicate with each other, chatting about games and collaborating to create worlds together. This is one of the biggest attractions of the game however not all players have the same good intentions.
Users have frequently reported inappropriate conduct occurring primarily through the chat function. This includes harassment, cyber bullying and predatory behaviour.
In-app purchases
Roblox is free to play, however the game features in-app purchases. Users can purchase clothing, accessories and building materials to upgrade their game play; children who don’t understand what in-app purchases are may find themselves racking up a large bill on their parents’ credit card.
Whilst parents may be concerned about their kids’ online safety, there is a certain approach that should be taken when discussing issues surrounding cyber security. Rather than a total ban on access to video games, parents should ask their children to show them the games they are playing. Ask them to explain the gameplay and consider playing alongside them.
Other measures you should consider adopting include putting the computer or tablet in a central location and setting limits on the amount of screen time per day, to encourage a good balance between inside and outside activities.
Platforms such as Roblox are a fun and engaging way for children to explore their creativity. They can also act as a great opportunity to teach kids online gaming safety so that they can grow up to be safe and responsible digital citizens.