Is Roblox Going to Allow 18+ Content? Understanding the Platform’s Evolving Landscape
The short answer is: No, Roblox is not moving to 18+ content. While there has been a significant shift towards allowing content aimed at older audiences aged 17 and up, it’s crucial to understand that this doesn’t equate to fully adult, 18+ material. Roblox is evolving, but its core vision remains a platform for all ages, with safety and civility as key pillars. The introduction of the 17+ category is a strategic move to cater to the platform’s growing demographic of older teens and young adults, providing experiences tailored to their interests while maintaining a level of moderation and adherence to guidelines. This means there will not be explicitly adult content.
Roblox’s Expansion and the 17+ Category
Roblox has experienced a notable increase in users aged 17-24, prompting the platform to adapt to this demographic shift. The introduction of the 17+ content category on June 20, 2023, signifies a significant step in this direction. Developers now have the option to create experiences specifically for this older audience, offering more mature themes and content. However, this expansion is not a carte blanche for any type of content.
What 17+ Content Means
It’s vital to recognize what 17+ content on Roblox entails:
- Mature Themes: This may include strong violence, heavy realistic blood, moderate crude humor, romantic themes, unplayable gambling content, and the presence of alcohol.
- Not Explicitly Adult: Crucially, Roblox does not permit graphic sexual content, extreme violence, serious physical or psychological abuse (including animal abuse or torture), or any discriminatory content.
- Moderation Still Applies: Despite the more mature content, Roblox’s community guidelines still apply. This means profanity and hate speech are not allowed, even in 17+ experiences. Developers must adhere to these standards and any attempt to evade detection using misspellings, special characters etc. will not be allowed.
Why the 17+ Category?
The primary reason behind this move is to acknowledge and engage the growing number of older users on the platform. By allowing developers to create content tailored to their interests, Roblox aims to retain and expand its user base. The new category allows older users to enjoy games more relevant to them without exposing younger players to unsuitable content. This is a significant update and provides a level of flexibility to create experiences that are enjoyed by older users.
Safety and Age Verification
Roblox continues to emphasize safety and civility, especially for younger users. The platform utilizes age verification systems to ensure users are accessing age-appropriate content. Age verification is mandatory to access 17+ experiences and content. This is done by logging in to your Roblox account and using your birthday and a QR code to verify your ID. This process helps to ensure that minors aren’t exposed to content deemed unsuitable.
Parental Controls
Roblox still provides robust parental controls. These settings allow parents to customize what their children can access on the platform. Parents can restrict access to certain experiences, control chat permissions, and monitor their children’s activity. These parental controls are important and will still apply to users accessing the 17+ category.
Looking to the Future: What to Expect
Roblox is a continuously evolving platform, and its expansion into more mature content signals a significant shift in its strategy. While the platform isn’t moving to explicit 18+ content, it’s clear that Roblox is attempting to broaden its appeal and accommodate the changing demographics. This creates new opportunities for both users and developers, so long as they adhere to the guidelines and community standards. This can also be confusing so it’s worth checking back and keeping up with new releases and policies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Roblox Content
1. Is Roblox changing its core audience to be 18+?
No. Roblox remains committed to being a platform for all ages. The 17+ category is an addition, not a replacement. There will still be content for all users, young and old.
2. Can you cuss or use explicit language in 17+ Roblox games?
No. Profanity and explicit language of any kind are not allowed in any text, images, or audio on Roblox, even in 17+ experiences. This includes attempts to bypass detection using misspellings or special characters.
3. What kind of content is allowed in 17+ experiences?
17+ content may include strong violence, heavy realistic blood, moderate crude humor, romantic themes, unplayable gambling content, and the presence of alcohol. But not explicit sexual content, hate speech, or abuse.
4. How do I enable 17+ content on Roblox?
You must verify your age via the Account Info tab in your settings. You’ll need to use a government-issued ID and a live camera to verify yourself.
5. Will Roblox allow NSFW content?
No. NSFW content, including graphic sexual content, is strictly prohibited on Roblox, even in the 17+ category.
6. What are the new rules for Roblox in 2023?
Aside from the introduction of the 17+ category, one of the primary changes for 2023 is that experiences without clear guidelines are no longer recommended to users under nine.
7. Can children under 17 play 17+ games if they verify their age?
No. Age verification is designed to prevent younger users from accessing content not intended for them. Users must be 17 or older to access 17+ content.
8. Is it still safe for kids to play Roblox?
Roblox is safe for children when used with proper parental controls and vigilance. Parental guidance is crucial for all age groups, especially younger users. There are some risks, however, due to user-generated content, so vigilance is important.
9. How many warnings before getting banned on Roblox?
Typically, you receive two warnings before a temporary ban. Ban durations increase with each subsequent ban. Severe offenses can result in an immediate ban.
10. Is it okay for adults to play Roblox?
Yes. Roblox is a platform for all ages, and adults are welcome to play and enjoy the platform.
11. Does Roblox have a dating feature now?
Roblox has not introduced a dedicated dating feature, although there is discussion about future dating-related experiences. While some users may connect romantically, there is no formal dating system within the platform.
12. Are there inappropriate games on Roblox?
Yes. There are some experiences on Roblox with inappropriate content, such as sexually suggestive themes and themes of violence. These are often user-created and Roblox works to remove them when found.
13. Are there child predators on Roblox?
Unfortunately, yes, like any social platform, there are potential risks. Parental supervision and teaching children about online safety are crucial.
14. How is Roblox rated for age?
Common Sense Media rates Roblox as appropriate for ages 13+, although the platform also has games that are appropriate for younger children. PEGI has rated the platform as Parental Guidance Recommended.
15. Why did Roblox add 17+ content?
Roblox added the 17+ category to cater to its growing number of older users and allow developers to create more mature experiences that would appeal to an adult audience, without adding graphic content.
By understanding these points and the guidelines provided by Roblox, both users and parents can navigate the platform with greater awareness and safety. The addition of the 17+ category is a reflection of Roblox’s growth and its ongoing efforts to remain a relevant and engaging platform for a diverse range of users.