How Predatory Monetization Designs Manifest in Child-Friendly Video Games
summary
Roblox, with 56% of users under 16 (21% under 9, 21% aged 9–12), is analyzed via 20 developer interviews and a 30-game walkthrough. Findings show developers knowingly deploy predatory mechanics: bright green “continue” buttons that create false urgency, layered currencies and memberships that obfuscate cost, a spinning wheel that charges to play with hidden odds, and popups with countdowns exploiting loss aversion. Recommendations include platform regulation and child-focused financial literacy.
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chapters (11)
- 0:00Predatory monetization in games
- 1:14Research questions and methodology
- 2:39Predatory monetization in Roblox
- 3:20Developers' awareness of practices
- 4:25Monetization design manifestations
- 5:29UI design cognitive biases
- 6:14Hidden odds and gambling mechanics
- 7:16Psychological purchase pressure
- 9:03Ethical concerns for young players
- 10:09Ethical design and regulation
- 10:52Conclusion and call for literacy
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