Roblox creators can now offer physical merchandise within the game.

      Roblox

      Buying in-game items is standard for Roblox users, but now they have the option to purchase actual physical merchandise and receive an avatar item in addition. As announced by Roblox, eligible creators can offer digital items alongside physical purchases, creating new revenue opportunities for in-game creators.

      “Our vision for the future of shopping is to make it more thrilling and social than traditional online shopping. On Roblox, users can explore virtual stores, try on clothing, and share their experiences with others,” the announcement states. “This naturally generates interest and intent to buy. We are now taking it a step further, closing the gap between virtual and real-world shopping by allowing Roblox users to buy physical products.”

      Roblox features many popular titles that surpass the most played games on Steam. For instance, Brookhaven RP has accrued over 23 million favorites, boasting more than 477,000 active players at the moment. Roblox reports that one of its creator studios, Twin Atlas, earned more than six figures shortly after using the commerce platform. The potential for significant earnings exists, especially for the platform's popular games.

      Players can explore real-world products and virtually try them on to see how they look before making a purchasing decision. A 2023 survey found that many consumers, particularly Gen Z, are more inclined to buy an item after trying it on virtually.

      Roblox has partnered with Shopify, referring to it as its “first” integration partner, indicating that more collaborations may be forthcoming. Notable brands are also joining in, with companies such as Fenty Beauty utilizing the Roblox commerce platform. Additionally, The Weeknd is offering a ticket for his upcoming film along with a digital in-game item.

      To utilize this platform, interested individuals must fulfill the requirements to become an eligible creator, which include verifying their ID, maintaining a Roblox Premium subscription, and adhering to Roblox’s Community Standards. This initiative is part of several programs aimed at helping creators earn real-world revenue from Roblox users, including the Creator Affiliate Pilot Program and the sale of avatar items and games.

      Patrick Hearn covers smart home technology such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, smart light bulbs, and more. If it’s related to smart technology...

      You can now rent a PlayStation 5 from PlayStation Direct at the cost of a sandwich.

      The PlayStation 5 represents a significant investment, but you can now acquire one without the steep upfront cost. PlayStation Direct has launched a rental program (currently available only in the United Kingdom) allowing users to rent a PlayStation 5 for as little as 10.99 GBP — approximately $15. Sony has partnered with Raylo to create this program, which includes five different options. The most affordable choice is the PlayStation 5 Digital, which starts at just 10.99 GBP per month on a 36-month lease. Prices increase with shorter lease terms, and there is also a lease-free option available at 21.95 GBP per month, which can be canceled at any time.

      You can experience a completely new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles game on Steam right now.

      Steam Next Fest is here, and you’ll likely have access to numerous video game demos. There are many promising indie titles to try for free during the event, and we’ll provide recommendations as we discover the standout games. If you’re looking for a starting point, check out Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown.

      This latest adventure for the Turtles is quite different from their previous exploits. It’s not a typical beat-em-up; instead, it’s a turn-based strategy game developed by I Am Your Beast. While a tactical genre may seem unconventional for the Turtles, it surprisingly fits well. The game introduces a new twist on tactics that gives players more options during each turn. It’s a fast-paced tactical game that nostalgically connects to the Turtles’ arcade days in unexpected ways.

      Dune: Awakening is set to launch in May, but its character creator is available now.

      Funcom has announced that its MMO survival game Dune: Awakening will be released on Steam on May 20. However, the Character Creator and Benchmark Mode are available for download today. Players can spend as much time as they like customizing their character to resemble Zendaya or Timothy Chalamet, allowing for seamless gameplay upon the game’s release rather than spending hours in the character menu.

      Characters designed now can be imported into the game at launch. Funcom mentions that players can customize every detail of their character, select their home planet, caste, mentor, and more. These decisions will affect the character’s initial abilities, but players will be able to unlock every School (class) by the end of the game, enabling them to choose the abilities they desire.