Roblox is rolling out new “Kids” and “Select” account tiers to restrict younger users to age-appropriate games and chat experiences, following mounting pressure regarding child safety on its platform.
Strict Developer Verification Requirements
The first step in this safety rollout is rigorous developer verification. Before any title can be considered for inclusion in the Kids or Select categories, developers must meet strict eligibility criteria. Creators under the age of 16 are required to complete ID verification or maintain a verified link to a parent’s account. Furthermore, all developer accounts must have two-step verification enabled to maintain eligibility.
The Shift to Roblox Plus
Eligibility also mandates an active Roblox Plus subscription. Launched recently at $4.99 per month, this tier provides exclusive benefits, including discounts on avatars and in-game items. Notably, the legacy Roblox Premium subscription will cease accepting new sign-ups effective April 30, marking a significant shift in the platform’s monetization and verification strategy.
Rigorous Game Evaluation and Moderation
Beyond developer requirements, Roblox is implementing a multi-layered evaluation process. The company will conduct real-time testing where users aged 16 and older play-test titles and provide feedback. This data will be used to assess whether a game is suitable for younger audiences before it receives approval. Additionally, Roblox will leverage its multimodal moderation system to scan for rule violations.
Content Maturity Standards
To be accessible by younger users, games must adhere to specific gameplay criteria. This includes possessing an appropriate content maturity label, ensuring that the environment remains aligned with the protective measures established for the Kids and Select account tiers.
Context: Addressing Safety Concerns
These structural changes arrive in the wake of a wave of lawsuits targeting the platform. Attorneys general from states including Louisiana and Texas have taken legal action against Roblox, citing persistent child safety concerns. These legal challenges were sparked by reports and investigations, such as those by Hindenburg Research, which alleged that the platform was exposing young users to significant risks, including grooming and explicit content.
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