Our verdict: Roblox is free to download and play, and the Windows app gives access to the same games as phones and consoles. Most games are made by other users, so quality varies a lot. Many games push Robux purchases, which parents should keep an eye on.
About Roblox
Roblox is a platform where players join games, called experiences, that other users build with Roblox Studio. The Windows player app runs these experiences, handles chat, friends and your avatar, and updates itself automatically. Your account and progress are shared with the Roblox apps on phones, Mac, consoles and VR headsets.
Playing is free. Robux, the virtual currency, is sold for real money and spent on avatar items, game passes and in-game extras; an optional Roblox Premium subscription adds a monthly Robux allowance. Accounts include parental controls for spending limits, chat and content maturity settings.
What it does well
- Millions of user-made games. Play experiences of every genre built by the Roblox community.
- Cross-platform accounts. Same account, friends and avatar on PC, phone, console and VR.
- Avatar customization. Dress and edit your avatar with free and paid items.
- Chat and friends. Text and voice chat, subject to age checks and parental settings.
- Parental controls. Limit spending, chat and content maturity for child accounts.
Who it is for
Good fit
Kids, teens and friends who want to play a huge variety of free multiplayer games together across devices.
Look elsewhere
Players looking for polished, ad-free single-player games, or parents unwilling to supervise purchases and chat.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free to download and play
- Huge catalog of community-made games
- Same account across PC, mobile and consoles
Cons
- Many games push Robux purchases
- Quality of user-made games varies widely
- Requires an account and an internet connection
How to install Roblox
Run RobloxPlayerInstaller.exe; it downloads and installs the player app without asking questions. Sign in or create a Roblox account, then start a game from the website or app. For a child, set up parental controls and a spending limit in account settings before handing it over.
Questions about Roblox
Is Roblox free?
Yes. The app and most games are free. Robux, avatar items, game passes and Roblox Premium cost real money.
Do I need an account to play Roblox?
Yes. You need a Roblox account to join games.
Can parents limit spending on Roblox?
Yes. Parental controls let you set spending limits and restrict chat and content for child accounts.
