Why BAD Roblox Games are SO POPULAR

Summary

The video script delves into the 'slop' games phenomenon on Roblox, critiquing their shallow gameplay and reliance on trends. It examines the platform's discoverability algorithm, which favors these games for their high engagement rates, driven by simple mechanics that capitalize on human psychology. The script also highlights the impact of Roblox's premium payouts on game design, incentivizing developers to create games that keep players logged in, often at the expense of quality and innovation. The critique extends to the nomination of one such game for a Roblox award, questioning the platform's values and the future of engaging, well-designed games on the platform.

Takeaways

• 😀 Roblox's discoverability algorithm favors 'slop' games, which are low-effort and trend-exploitative, similar to YouTube content farms.
• 🤔 The term 'slop games' is used to describe games that are poorly made and designed to capitalize on trends without a focus on gameplay longevity or enjoyment.
• 🎮 The video discusses the negative impact of 'slop games' on Roblox's ecosystem, suggesting they are detrimental to the platform's overall health.
• 🔄 Since the introduction of Roblox Premium and its payout system, game developers have been incentivized to create games that keep players engaged for longer periods to earn more.
• 💰 The monetization strategy of 'slop games' primarily focuses on earning premium payouts rather than selling in-game items or passes.
• 📈 Simulator games on Roblox are highlighted as being particularly effective at generating premium payouts due to their simple and addictive gameplay loops.
• 👎 The video criticizes 'Souls RNG' as an example of a game that epitomizes the exploitative nature of premium payouts, with its gameplay revolving around a slot machine mechanic.
• 🙄 There is a concern that games like 'Souls RNG', which encourage AFK (away from keyboard) play, are being rewarded with high player counts and premium payouts.
• 🏆 'Souls RNG' being nominated for a Roblox award highlights the irony and potential misalignment with what constitutes innovation and quality in game design.
• 🚀 The video advocates for promoting games with engaging gameplay and unique mechanics over those that simply exploit engagement for monetary gain.
• 👍 The creator expresses satisfaction in helping to bring attention to games that offer a better player experience, even if it's just to a small audience.

Q & A

What is the main issue discussed in the video script about Roblox games?

The main issue discussed is the prevalence of 'slop' games on Roblox, which are characterized as low-effort, trend-exploiting games that are favored by Roblox's discoverability algorithm, leading to a negative impact on the platform's overall quality.

What is the term 'slop' used to describe in the context of Roblox games?

The term 'slop' is used to describe games on Roblox that are seen as sloppy, rushed, and lazy, with little effort put into their longevity or enjoyment, often capitalizing on trends without offering substantial gameplay.

Why do slop games consistently appear on the front page of Roblox?

Slop games appear on the front page of Roblox because they are designed to maximize player engagement and time spent in the game, which in turn increases premium payouts for the developers, benefiting both the developers and Roblox as a company.

What is the role of Roblox's discoverability algorithm in promoting slop games?

The discoverability algorithm on Roblox is designed to push games that keep players engaged for longer periods to the front page, which inadvertently favors slop games that are optimized for this purpose.

How does the monetization feature 'premium payouts' influence game design on Roblox?

Premium payouts incentivize developers to create games that keep players, especially those with a Roblox premium account, engaged for longer periods, as developers earn more based on the playtime of premium account holders.

What is the significance of the game 'Pet Simulator 99' in the context of this discussion?

'Pet Simulator 99' is mentioned as an example of a game that has successfully exploited the premium payouts system, using questionable means to generate revenue and inspiring other developers to follow suit.

What is the difference between 'simulator' games and other types of games on Roblox according to the script?

Simulator games are described as having simple and easy progression, which capitalizes on the human brain's natural desire for progress, making them highly effective at keeping players engaged and generating premium payouts.

Why does the script mention 'Beeswarm Simulator' as a positive example?

'Beeswarm Simulator' is highlighted as a positive example because, despite being a simulator game, it offers interesting map progression, quests, and unlockables, showing that it has been developed with more care and attention to detail than most simulator games.

What is the main criticism of 'Souls RNG' as presented in the script?

The main criticism of 'Souls RNG' is that it is a game designed purely to capitalize on premium payouts, with no substantial gameplay, and relies on players being AFK to generate revenue, which is seen as exploitative and detrimental to the platform.

What is the script's stance on the nomination of 'Souls RNG' for best new game at The Innovation Awards?

The script views the nomination of 'Souls RNG' as ironic and problematic, as it represents a game that has innovated in exploiting the platform's monetization system rather than offering a quality gaming experience.

What alternative types of games does the script suggest deserve more attention on Roblox?

The script suggests that games with fun gameplay, unique mechanics, and passion put into their development, such as 'Fighting and Pressure' and 'Block Tailes', deserve more attention as they offer a better gaming experience.