David Baszucki, the founder and CEO of Roblox, envisions the inclusion of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) within the renowned metaverse gaming platform, shedding light on the potential dynamics of such a transformative development.
In an interview with CNBC, Baszucki addressed the possibility of Roblox’s synthetic Robux currency extending its utility beyond the platform and the potential integration of NFTs within the gaming environment.
Baszucki expressed a vision where objects and NFTs seamlessly transition between different platforms, highlighting the dream of cross-platform mobility. Using the example of a celebrity like musician Elton John releasing limited-edition capes for charity on Roblox, he envisioned these digital assets becoming NFTs, capable of being sold off-platform and later returning to Roblox.
The CEO emphasized the pivotal role that creators, be it Elton John, Nike, or others producing digital items, would play in this envisioned process, asserting their significant control.
The integration of NFTs on Roblox holds significance due to the platform’s immense popularity, particularly among younger audiences. Roblox’s daily active user count has risen by 20% compared to the previous year, with over 70 million users spending an average of 2.5 hours on the platform in Q3 2023, according to Roblox’s 2023 Digital Expression, Fashion & Beauty Trends Report.
While Roblox introduced Limiteds earlier this year, a category of virtual wearable products with characteristics resembling NFTs, the platform lacks blockchain technology. Limiteds can be sold in limited quantities and resold, with a 10% royalty fee returning to the original creator upon resale.
Regarding the potential use of Robux outside of Roblox, Baszucki acknowledged its technical feasibility through third-party sites, but emphasized the company’s disapproval of unauthorized platforms engaging in activities like gambling.
While Baszucki’s comments reflect openness to the idea of interoperable NFTs on Roblox, it remains uncertain if the platform will implement blockchain infrastructure for its digital items. As of now, there is no indication of any concrete plans in this direction. Roblox has not yet responded to requests for comment on its NFT strategy.
