Roblox, a popular gaming platform, is set to introduce paid video games on its platform, marking a shift from its free-to-play model. The company announced on Friday that developers will be able to sell physical merchandise through their games as well. This move is expected to give creators more revenue opportunities while offering players new experiences.
At the company’s developer conference, it was revealed that certain games, referred to as “experiences,” can now be priced in real currency, starting with desktops. Roblox will offer creators a revenue share of up to 70%, though this figure will vary depending on the price of the game. Paid experiences will launch on PCs later this year, with plans to expand to other devices soon.
This marks a significant change from Roblox’s traditional focus on in-game currency, Robux, which players use to buy digital items like cosmetics and collectibles. By introducing paid games, Roblox aims to diversify its revenue streams and offer creators additional earning avenues. “We’re giving our creators another way to earn on Roblox,” said Enrico D’Angelo, the company’s vice president of economy.
Roblox has long relied on user-generated content, with developers creating games that attract millions of players. The company revealed it paid over $800 million to its creator community in the past year. The introduction of paid experiences is expected to boost earnings for developers and further strengthen the platform’s ecosystem.
In addition to paid games, Roblox is partnering with Shopify to enable developers to sell physical merchandise directly through their games. This new feature will roll out early next year, offering a fresh way for developers to engage with their audience and monetize their creations beyond the digital realm.
Roblox’s collaboration with brands like Walmart and Elf Beauty is another monetization strategy. These partnerships allow players to purchase real-world products through virtual stores within the platform, enhancing the blend of physical and digital commerce.