As the scrutiny around Apple and Google's app store fees continues to intensify globally, gaming platform Roblox has made a significant move to bypass these charges. The company has started offering an additional 25% game currency, Robux, for purchases made on the web and through gift cards, as opposed to mobile platforms.

This strategic decision is seen as a way to encourage users to purchase Robux from the web, thereby avoiding Apple and Google's in-app purchase fee markups. According to a Roblox spokesperson, the company is committed to providing more value to its user and creator communities while managing costs.

In a statement to TechCrunch, the spokesperson said, "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."

This move is not a limited-time offer, but rather a long-term change, as confirmed by a Roblox developer forum post. The gaming company's decision has garnered praise from Epic Games' CEO Tim Sweeney, who has been vocal about his opposition to Apple and Google's app store charges.

Sweeney took to X to express his support, saying, "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."

This development comes at a time when the app economy is undergoing significant changes. In August, Epic Games launched its own Epic Games Store in the EU on iOS and on Android across the world. Meanwhile, startups like Appcharge, which raised $26 million at a $100 million valuation, are helping game publishers create more value outside of Apple and Google ecosystems.

In Europe, companies are looking to launch alternative app stores on iOS, thanks to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This shift in the app economy is likely to have far-reaching implications, with companies like Roblox taking bold steps to reclaim revenue lost to app store fees.

As the battle against app store fees continues, it will be interesting to see how Apple and Google respond to Roblox's move. Will this spark a wave of similar actions from other companies, or will the tech giants find ways to counter this strategy? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the app economy is undergoing a significant transformation, and Roblox is at the forefront of this change.