Misleading and Deceptive Monetisation in Roblox: Evidence of False Pricing, Manipulative Design, and Consumer Harm in a Children’s Digital Platform

Abstract

Roblox is one of the world’s largest digital platforms for children, generating most of its revenue through microtransactions purchased with the virtual currency Robux. This report examines how monetisation is designed and experienced in popular Roblox games, focusing on misleading, deceptive, and manipulative practices that may cause consumer harm. Based on qualitative gameplay analysis of 15 top‑earning Roblox games conducted between October 2025 and February 2026, the study documents fourteen misleading, deceptive or unfair monetisation practices. The report argues that these practices raise serious consumer protection concerns, particularly given Roblox’s predominantly child user base and the platform’s active role in shaping and profiting from these monetisation systems.