You may have heard of Roblox, the game played by half of all kids in the U.S. and even more players than Fortnite. But what makes this online video game so popular? Here's what you need to know about Roblox.
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Roblox is a multiplayer online gaming platform that allows anyone to design a multiplayer online game (called a "place") and publish it through the Roblox application. Roblox games can vary by genre, but they all share certain interface elements and common gameplay models. The default appearance of Roblox characters resembles Legos.
Founded in 2004 by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel , its success has been gradual. According to Roblox, two-thirds of children in America between the ages of 9 and 12 were playing the game in early 2020. On March 10, 2021, Roblox Corporation went public on the New York Stock Exchange, immediately earning a valuation of $45 billion. And the game continues to grow.
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Roblox games cover a wide variety of genres, from social chat games to virtual pets to action-RPGs to horror and survival games. One of the most popular Roblox games is called Jailbreak , which involves cops or robbers chasing each other.
In general, Roblox games are free. Anyone can create an account without charge. The key to Roblox's financial success is a built-in microtransaction system, based on a virtual currency called Robux.
Players buy Robux with real money using one-time purchases or a monthly subscription. In return, they can use this Robux in any Roblox world to buy accessories for their characters (such as different outfits) or virtual items like race cars and pets. Some places also charge a Robux fee.
Roblox is available for free download on Windows 10, Macs, iPhones, iPads, Android devices, Amazon devices, Xbox One, and VR platforms like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.
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Roblox supports mouse/keyboard or gamepad controls on PCs and Macs. On tablets and smartphones, you can use touchscreen controls or connect a gamepad for a more console-like experience.
