Roblox's Console Evolution: PlayStation Debut, Realistic Avatars: What's Next for Gamers?

Roblox, the online game platform and game creation system developed by Roblox Corp RBLX, is set to launch on Sony Group Corp's SONY PlayStation consoles in October, expanding its reach to more players.

Roblox made the announcement at this year's 2023 Roblox Developers Conference (RDC), revealing the platform will soon be accessible on both the PS4 and PS5.

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This expansion joins the existing availability of Roblox on Microsoft Corp.'s MSFT Xbox, PC, Mac, iOS and Android. Additionally, Meta Platforms Inc.'s META Meta Quest version is set to have a wider release later this month.

Users on the PlayStation consoles can look forward to accessing the complete range of Roblox experiences with the convenience of logging into their accounts and resuming their progress from other platforms.

While an official release date for the PlayStation launch remains undisclosed, the company said the game will be available for free download, but in-game transactions will incur charges when it debuts on PlayStation.

What About Roblox On Nintendo Switch?

Although Xbox and soon PlayStation are receiving console versions of Roblox, there are currently no plans for a Nintendo ADR's NTDOY Nintendo Switch release.

"Roblox to be on all devices, anywhere worldwide, but we currently have no imminent plans to have Roblox available on the Nintendo Switch," Roblox Corporation spokesperson Roman Skuratovskiy told The Verge.

CEO Davee Baszuki had not completely dismissed the possibility. He stated during an earnings call last month that a Switch version could potentially be introduced in the future. A potential scenario is that the company might delay its plans until the rumored successor to Nintendo's current console is released.

Roblox's Evolution: From Kids' Playground To 3D Social Hub

The company is transitioning from a children's gaming platform to a broader 3D immersive communication space.

Announced during its developer's conference, Roblox unveiled "Roblox Connect," enabling users to engage in voice calls through avatars in a shared digital environment.

Additionally, the company plans to introduce machine learning-powered tools to simplify avatar creation, while avatars will soon reflect real-time facial expressions, deepening emotional engagement within the virtual realm.

"In the near future, a person's avatar will mirror their exact facial expressions, right down to the same blink rate," Chief Product Officer Manuel Bronstein and Chief Technology Officer Dan Sturman said in a statement.

Roblox is expanding monetization options for creators with the introduction of "Assistant," a conversational AI designed to enhance accessibility and speed up the creation process.

And, in response to community input, Roblox plans to overhaul marketplace fees in the coming year, aiming to increase creators' earnings from their sales.

Read Next: Roblox Revolution: Voice Calls Meet Avatar Faces With Real-Time Emotion 'Right Down To The Same Blink Rate'

Photo: Diego Thomazini on Shutterstock.