As scrutiny around Apple and Google’s app store fees tightens around the world, gaming platform Roblox has now started to offer an additional 25% game currency Robux for purchases on the web and gift cards as compared to mobile platforms. In essence, the company is encouraging users to purchase Robux from the web to avoid Apple and Google’s in-app purchase fee markups.
The company confirmed the move and said that it is looking for ways to provide more value to user and creator communities.
“Apple and Google are valued partners. We are always looking for ways to pass on more value to our user and creator community while managing costs. Going forward, we are providing up to +25% more Robux for any customer that purchases Robux through the web, computer, or with gift cards,” a Roblox spokesperson told TechCrunch.
In a Roblox developer forum post, Roblox specified that this is not a holiday offer but rather a long-term change.
Epic Games’ CEO Tim Sweeny, who has been fighting with Apple and Google over app store charges, applauded this move.
“Awesome to see Roblox finally fighting the Apple tax. I hope that the current Epic v Apple contempt of court proceeding stops Apple’s ludicrous scare screens and junk fees so that all apps can send users to web-based payments and pass on the savings like this,” he said in a post on X.
In August, the gaming company launched its own Epic Games Store in the EU on iOS and on Android across the world. In Europe, companies are looking to launch alternative app stores on iOS, thanks to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Meanwhile, startups like Appcharge, which raised $26 million at a $100 million valuation, are helping game publishers to create more value outside of Apple and Google ecosystems.