Sony decided not to allow Roblox on PlayStation consoles due to concerns about inappropriate content that could potentially reach children. The disclosure of this decision came from a document in 2022, initially reported by Axios and discovered during the Microsoft trial conducted by the Federal Trade Commission. However, Jim Ryan, President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, indicated that the company’s position was gradually changing, indicating the possibility of eventually bringing the popular user-generated platform to PlayStation.
Ryan explained the reasoning behind withholding Roblox from PlayStation to investors in early 2022. He stated, “Historically, because of the significant number of children who play on PlayStation, we have exercised great caution in exposing them to anything that could potentially exploit them.” However, Ryan expressed a more positive outlook to investors who were eager to see Roblox on Sony consoles. He added, “In the past few years, we have reviewed our policies and become more lenient in this regard. We have been overly conservative for too long, and now we are actively engaging with the Roblox team. We hope the situation will change.”
Despite Ryan’s comments being made over a year ago, Roblox is still not available on PlayStation consoles. This beloved title, which allows users to create, share, and play user-generated content, can be accessed on Xbox, iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. Nintendo has not commented on the unavailability of Roblox for the Switch, but historically, the console manufacturer has also been cautious about protecting children from inappropriate content.
In 2021, Roblox implemented a content rating system to assist parents in better controlling the user-created games their children play. More than half of the platform’s daily users are under the age of 13. Although Roblox prohibits content featuring sexual activity, illegal substances, and swearing, some rule-breaking content can occasionally slip past moderation in user-created titles. Additionally, Roblox is adapting to retain its users as they grow older, now permitting content for players aged 17 and above. The 17 to 24 age group represents the platform’s fastest-growing segment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about child safety
Why did Sony block Roblox from PlayStation consoles?
Sony blocked Roblox from PlayStation consoles due to concerns about inappropriate content reaching children. They wanted to exercise caution and ensure child safety while considering the potential risks associated with the platform.
Has Sony’s stance on Roblox changed since then?
Sony’s stance on Roblox has softened over time. The company’s President and CEO, Jim Ryan, mentioned that they have been reviewing their policies and becoming more lenient. They are currently engaging with the Roblox team, indicating a possibility of bringing Roblox to PlayStation consoles in the future.
Is Roblox available on other gaming consoles?
Yes, Roblox is available on Xbox, iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. However, it is not currently available on PlayStation consoles. Nintendo’s stance on Roblox’s availability for the Switch is unknown, but they have also been cautious about protecting children from inappropriate content.
What measures does Roblox have in place to ensure child safety?
Roblox introduced a content rating system in 2021 to help parents better control the user-created games their children play. While the platform forbids content displaying sexual activity, illegal substances, and swearing, occasional rule-breaking content can slip past moderation in user-created titles. Roblox is working to address these challenges and improve its safety measures.
What is the age demographic of Roblox users?
More than half of Roblox’s daily users are under the age of 13. However, Roblox is also adapting to retain its users as they grow older by allowing content for players aged 17 and above. The 17 to 24 age range represents the platform’s fastest-growing segment.
More about child safety
- Axios: Sony didn’t want ‘Roblox’ on PlayStation due to child safety concerns
- Roblox Official Website
- Sony Interactive Entertainment Official Website
- Federal Trade Commission Official Website
- Nintendo Official Website
- Roblox’s Content Rating System
- Roblox’s Safety Features
4 comments
sony is too strict on this one! roblox is popular and all my friends play it on xbox. why no ps4? not fair! kids wanna have fun too!
nintendo is smart for being cautious too. they care about kids and keeping them safe. roblox should follow their lead and make sure everything is appropriate for young players.
hey soony why u no want roblox on playstation?! kids r disapoint! i think robox should be on playstation its so cool. i hope u change ur mind soon.
sony is right to be worried about child safety. there’s some bad stuff on roblox sometimes. better safe than sorry. maybe they can find a way to make it safer and then we can all play!