How Predatory Monetization Designs Manifest in Child-Friendly Video Games

Numerous children play video games labeled as ‘child-friendly.’ However, the prevalence of predatory monetization designs in video games has raised safety concerns about their impact on children's online safety and financial well-being. While existing research has extensively examined general predatory monetization categories—such as pay-to-win mechanics and loot boxes—little is known about whether and how predatory monetization designs manifest in child-friendly video games. We address this question by studying Roblox, a child-friendly game platform with an enormous child player base. We conducted two investigations: (1) an interview study exploring how Roblox game developers perceive predatory monetization designs and (2) a walkthrough study analyzing how these predatory monetization designs manifest within Roblox games. Our findings revealed that many Roblox developers are aware of and even deploy predatory monetization designs in Roblox games to exploit child players. Additionally, we identified the ways predatory monetization designs function, such as user interface (UI) design manipulations and psychological tactics, which reinforce and amplify each other to nudge players toward spending, raising serious concerns about their financial security and digital autonomy. Finally, we propose implications for ethical game design and regulation in child-friendly video games.