Popular online gaming platform Roblox has introduced a new incentive for users to purchase its in-game currency, Robux, on platforms other than mobile app stores. By buying Robux on a computer, web, or through gift cards, users can now receive up to 25% more Robux than they would through traditional app store purchases.

This move is likely an attempt by Roblox to skirt the fees imposed by app stores, which can take a significant chunk of revenue from in-app purchases. By encouraging users to buy Robux through alternative channels, Roblox can retain more of the revenue generated from these sales. This strategy is not unique to Roblox, as other companies like YouTube have also implemented similar tactics to avoid app store fees.

According to a developer forum post, users who purchase $9.99 worth of Robux on a computer, web, or through a gift card will now receive 1,000 Robux, up from the original 800 Robux. This change is not a limited-time holiday promotion, and Roblox has stated that it plans to keep the new pricing in place globally beyond the holiday season.

Roblox's Robux purchase page has also been updated to reflect the additional Robux users will receive when buying on a computer or web. Furthermore, users who redeem a gift card purchased before the change was announced will also receive the higher amount of Robux.

When asked about the reasoning behind the new pricing, Roblox provided a vague answer, stating that it is "always looking for opportunities to share more with our community, on all platforms" and will keep users updated on channels where the opportunity becomes available. However, it is clear that avoiding app store fees is a key motivator behind this move.

In related news, Roblox also announced the launch of its new Party tool, which allows users to easily hang out and communicate on the platform. Up to six people can be in a Party, with text chat available initially and voice chat set to arrive in the coming months.

This development highlights the ongoing battle between app developers and app stores over revenue sharing. As companies like Roblox and YouTube explore ways to minimize their losses to app store fees, it will be interesting to see how this trend evolves and impacts the broader tech industry.