Roblox, the video game platform loved by children, is the subject of a class action lawsuit in the United States. Children are allegedly exposed to gambling through the game.
What is Roblox ?
It is a free platform for video games and online game creation tailored for young audience (under 13). It offers users the freedom to create their own virtual game worlds, accessible by other players, which is what makes it so original.
Having been translated into French and German, the app has been booming since 2019. Roblox was created by a Californian firm and has largely competed with a well-known video game: Minecraft.
A freemium platform that raises a few questions
Freemium is a business model in which basic services are provided free of charge to users, but more advanced features are subject to a charge. This is the case of the « free trial », which is limited in time. It can also be a totally free service, in which case the platform ensures that users end up wanting to pay for a better quality service.
This business model has strongly been developed thanks to its efficiency. However, some freemium models play on the users’ frustration which is regrettable in the case of video games aimed at children. Indeed, they are not yet able to be properly aware of contractual manipulations, especially online. Therefore, they are sensitive to the fact that they have to pay derisory amounts in order to continue playing or to play in better conditions.
In Roblox, benefits are earned through Robux, a virtual currency obtained in exchange for real money. This currency offers greater freedom in the game. Users can purchase virtual benefits and accessories. A « Roblox Premium » subscription is also available, allowing you to be allocated Robux on a monthly basis. The ability to create your own game mechanics, initially free of charge, encourages children to pay for more advanced features.
The problem is that this virtual currency, although only sold by the Roblox company, can be converted into credits for use on gambling websites, such as blackjack, roulette and other games of chance. So parents buy Robux for their children, thinking they’re buying gaming features or accessories, when in fact they’re playing gambling games.
While gambling is explicitly forbidden by the platform in its terms of use, Roblox is the subject of a controversy that is seriously jeopardizing its reputation.
Roblox, currently the target of a class action lawsuit
In August 2023, the platform was the target of a class action lawsuit in the United States. Parents of underaged children allege that Roblox receives a commission from these betting sites. From their point of view, these actions would contravene US gambling laws, in particular the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. It provides for the prosecution of racketeering activities as part of a criminal enterprise. Under this law, illegal gambling is a form of racketeering. To date, this lawsuit is still pending.
Kenza GHEZLOUN
M2 Cyberjustice – Promotion 2023/2024
#videogames #businessmodel #freemium #classaction #law
Sources :
https://www.lemonde.fr/pixels/article/2023/08/22/roblox-accuse-d-exposer-les-enfants-aux-jeux-d-argent-vise-par-une-plainte-collective-aux-etats-unis_6186175_4408996.html
https://en.help.roblox.com/hc/fr/articles/203313200-Façons-pour-obtenir-des-Robux
