Monetization opportunities offered by Roblox have significantly buoyed the US economy in recent years, according to new research commissioned by the company.
The gaming platform partnered with economic analysis firm Nordicity to release its inaugural Roblox Economic Impact and Social Benefit Study on August 29.
Roblox paid around US$803 million to its global community of creators during the 12-month period that ended on June 30, 2024—and this represented an 18% uptick compared to the previous year. As per the report, Roblox generated US$1.2 billion in GDP in the US between 2017 and 2023, which it estimates is equivalent to nearly 18,000 full-time jobs.
With nearly 80 million daily users, the platform offers a DevEx Program that gives creators the opportunity to receive real money in exchange for the virtual “robux” they earn from creating immersive experiences, avatars and items through a suite of tools in Roblox Studio.
While Roblox attracts gamers of all ages, it’s worth highlighting its strong resonance with kids and young teens, who enjoy the agency offered by the creation gaming aspect. According to Statista, there were roughly 32 million daily active users in the 13-and-under age bracket as of Q2 2024.
While media giants like WBD and Netflix have set up camp on the platform to reach young audiences, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for Roblox. Earlier this year, Roblox Studio head Stefano Corazza issued a statement responding to criticism that young developers under the age of 18 may face a risk of exploitation on the platform. And this month, Turkey blocked access to Roblox, citing multiple concerns that included the risk of child abuse.