Good Morning.
You probably think Roblox is a video game. You see your child running around a blocky world, jumping over lava, or delivering pizzas. But then they ask you for $20 to buy a "digital purse" that does absolutely nothing in the game.
It’s not a game. It’s a place. Here is what you need to know.
The Signal: "Roblox"
(Related terms: Robux, Obby, Brookhaven, Tycoon)
What is it?
Roblox is not a single game; it is an App Store full of millions of user-created games. Most of these "games" are actually just virtual chat rooms where kids hang out, roleplay family life, or show off their outfits.
Where does it come from?
It launched in 2006 but exploded during the pandemic when kids couldn't meet in person. Now, for Gen Alpha, "getting on Roblox" is the equivalent of "going out to play."
How should I think about it?
The Shopping Mall. In the 90s, you didn't go to the Mall just to buy shoes. You went to see your friends, be seen, and waste time. Roblox is the Digital Mall. Buying that $20 digital purse isn't about gameplay; it's about wearing the right sneakers to the food court so you don't look "poor."
The Playbook
The Trap to avoid: Thinking "It's just Lego." Because the graphics look like digital Lego, parents assume it is safe and innocent. However, because the content is user-generated, "Condo Games" (inappropriate sex/dating rooms) can pop up instantly before moderators delete them.
The Moves to consider: The "Open Door" Policy. Don't ban it if they already have it (social suicide), but move the screen to where it can be monitored. And check the 'Friends List'. If you don't know them in real life, they get deleted.
Go Deeper
Until next time.
-The Alpha Beat Team
Feel free to forward this to someone who doesn’t know why they just spent $20 on Robux