Roblox announced a new feature called 'Build' that enables users to create games using AI on their mobile devices. The tool allows anyone to generate a basic game from a text prompt without any programming experience. For instance, a user could input, 'Let’s make a cozy adventure game set in a dense forest,' and the system would generate an initial version of the game, which users can then modify and share with friends. The feature is designed to lower the barrier to entry for game development by leveraging a range of AI models, both open-source and proprietary to Roblox. The company emphasized that the AI handles gameplay mechanics, environment, characters, visual style, and sound. Source: techcrunch

The Build feature will be available in a public alpha test starting July 28, initially accessible to users in New Zealand aged nine and older who have verified their age. Older users, aged 16 and up, will be able to publish their creations to a global audience. Roblox also plans to offer a free, basic version of the tool along with paid options. The company aims to support creators across all experience levels by accelerating the game creation process. In addition to the Build feature, Roblox is developing AI agents to assist with playtesting and analytics, which are expected to roll out in the coming months. Source: techcrunch

Concerns have been raised by developers and players about the potential impact of AI-generated games on the platform. Critics argue that the ease of creating games via text prompts could lead to an increase in low-quality and repetitive content, intensifying competition on Roblox. These concerns are reflected in a recent survey, which found that 52% of game industry professionals believe generative AI is negatively affecting the industry. To address this, Roblox plans to rank AI-generated games based on player retention, similar to its current system for other games on the platform. The company stated, 'Our discovery systems are designed to highlight games with long-term retention, which doesn’t include AI slop. The quality of games on the homepage isn’t changing: If no one plays it—no one can find it.' Source: techcrunch