The story of Roblox History is the story of a small startup that grew into a global gaming phenomenon. Roblox is an online game platform and creation system developed by Roblox Corporation, and it allows users to program and play games created by themselves or others. The platform was created by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel in 2004, and officially released to the public on September 1, 2006. Today, Roblox boasts tens of millions of daily players worldwide, half of all American children under 16, and a thriving virtual economy. In this article, we explore when Roblox was created, who made Roblox, the role of the CEO of Roblox, and other key moments in Roblox’s development. We’ll also highlight important milestones, statistics, and the impact of Roblox on gaming culture.
Figure: Children playing video games in a mobile gaming trailer (illustrative of the social and creative play experiences that Roblox enables). The appeal of Roblox has always been its emphasis on creativity and community. Like the children in this image, Roblox players can design their own games, avatars, and virtual experiences. This social aspect is a hallmark of Roblox History – from the earliest days when its founders tested features with friends, to the modern platform where community feedback drives new updates. Over the years, Roblox has been built to be safe, family-friendly, and free-to-play for kids as young as 4+. The story of Roblox covers over two decades of innovation: from a simple physics-sandbox prototype to a global multimedia platform with concerts, sponsored events, and user-generated economies.
Origins: Founders and Early Development
One of the first questions in any discussion of Roblox History is “when was Roblox created?” and “who made Roblox?”. The answer begins with two friends: David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. Both were veteran software engineers. After selling their previous company (Knowledge Revolution) in 1998, Baszucki and Cassel worked on new ideas. In late 2003 they began development on an early prototype of what would become Roblox, initially called DynaBlocks. In January 2004 the name was changed to “Roblox” (a blend of “robots” and “blocks”), and they launched the first website that year. The Roblox Company Information page confirms that the platform was founded in 2004 by these two creators.
Roblox from the start relied on user-generated content. Baszucki envisioned a physics sandbox with building tools and social networking aspects. In its earliest alpha versions, Roblox had very basic graphics and no animated avatars. Baszucki and Cassel worked nearly alone on these early versions, even creating simple demonstration games themselves. They later hired a few developers (like Matt Dusek and John Shedletsky) to help expand the platform’s features. By mid-2006, after private playtests with a handful of users, the platform was ready for a wider release.
Official Release and Early Milestones
- January 2004: Roblox (formerly DynaBlocks) is officially named “Roblox”.
- 2004: The Roblox website launches, initially inviting developers and testers to experiment.
- September 1, 2006: Roblox’s first public release on Windows – the date Roblox came out in its initial form. The same year, Roblox Studio (the creation tool) was released, letting users build their own games.
After launch, community-created games on Roblox grew in popularity. Early hits included simple multiplayer experiences like paintball arenas and haunted houses. By 2007, the company introduced the Builders Club subscription (a premium account tier) and a dual-currency system (Robux and Tickets) to support the growing user base and economy. During these early years, Roblox Corporation focused on building the platform and encouraging user creativity. They even stepped back from creating in-house games in 2008 to let the community take over game development.
These early milestones answer several SEO questions: “when was Roblox made?” – in a sense, the platform was built throughout 2004 (launched as a concept and site) and matured into a playable game by 2006. And “who made Roblox?” is clear: it was the brainchild of co-founders David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. (Today, Baszucki is known as the CEO of Roblox, continuing to guide the company.)
Rapid Growth and Platform Expansion (2010–2020)
After its humble start, Roblox’s popularity began to surge in the 2010s. By 2011, Roblox had around 6.8 million monthly active users, and was already the second-most popular children’s entertainment site in the U.S.. Its revenue and investment also grew (over $4 million raised in mid-2011). This period saw the transition of Roblox from a niche creator platform to a mainstream gaming service. Key developments included:
- Mobile & Console Launches: Roblox expanded beyond PC. In 2012, Roblox released a stripped-down iOS social app, and by December 11, 2012 it rolled out a full iOS version that allowed playing most games. An Android version followed on July 16, 2014. Roblox launched on Xbox One in November 2015, introducing console gamers to its world. (Later, versions for VR headsets like Meta Quest were released in 2023.)
- Developer Tools: Between 2013-2015, Roblox improved its Creator Engine (Roblox Studio) with features like character animations, plugins, and the Developer Exchange program (DevEx). DevEx lets successful developers exchange earned Robux for real money. This incentivized more creators to invest time building games on Roblox. Also around 2015, the physics engine was enhanced (introducing “Smooth Terrain”) to improve graphics and performance.
- User Growth: By 2014, Roblox had exceeded 10–12 million monthly players. Many games had millions of visits. In August 2011, Roblox hosted its first fan convention (“Roblox Rally”) with over 1,000 attendees. However, the platform still grew quietly – co-founder Erik Cassel passed away in 2013, a sad moment in Roblox history, but the platform continued.
From 2016 onward, Roblox’s growth accelerated dramatically. By December 2016, monthly users hit ~30 million, and by April 2019 it was about 90 million. The launch of the mobile app and investments in international markets contributed heavily. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020: lockdowns led to tens of millions of kids using Roblox for both play and social interaction. By April 2020, monthly players exceeded 120 million. This explosive growth meant more games hit unprecedented play counts (20+ games with over 1 billion plays) and Roblox became an everyday part of many families’ lives.
Figure: The new Roblox logo (2025), reflecting the company’s evolving brand (vector image in public domain). In 2025, Roblox updated its logo to a blue design (seen above). This rebranding underscores Roblox’s ongoing evolution. The logo change hints at Roblox’s future ambitions beyond simple gaming: expanding into broader virtual experiences and the so-called “Metaverse”. Under CEO David “Builderman” Baszucki – co-founder and longtime leader – Roblox has invested in VR support, social features, and high-profile events (concerts, brand partnerships). Today’s Roblox is not just a game but a platform for virtual events, education, and community innovation.
Key Statistics and Impact
Roblox’s impact can be seen in its user and economic metrics. According to Roblox’s own reporting and recent data:
- Daily Active Users: As of early 2025, Roblox averages around 85.3 million daily players. (For comparison, this surpasses many traditional games.)
- Monthly Players: Estimates suggest Roblox has hundreds of millions of monthly users worldwide. (Some reports claim ~380 million monthly by 2024, reflecting its fast growth.)
- Age Demographics: Over half of Roblox’s users are under age 16, making it hugely influential among kids and teens.
- Creators and Economy: Millions of user-created games (“experiences”) exist. Millions of developers have earned Robux (virtual currency) — and via DevEx have even turned that into real income. By early 2025, Roblox reported that creators had made hundreds of millions of dollars through the platform. The avatar and item marketplace is also massive, with limited edition “collectibles” often selling for high Robux prices.
Roblox’s scale is enormous: it has hosted billions of game sessions and fostered a new generation learning programming and game design. It has been compared to “the largest user-generated MMORPG” or even a budding metaverse. As Wired and other outlets note, Roblox represents a blend of gaming, social networking, and creation. For many young players, it’s as much a social hangout as a set of games.
Roblox Corporation and Leadership
Who made Roblox? The founders, David Baszucki and Erik Cassel, built Roblox Corporation in 2004. They remain central figures in Roblox’s story. After Cassel’s untimely death in 2013, Baszucki took on the lead role. Today, David Baszucki is the CEO of Roblox Corporation, a fact noted in his biography. (He is sometimes known by his Roblox username “Builderman.”) Baszucki’s vision has guided the company through its IPO and beyond. In March 2021, Roblox went public via a direct listing on the New York Stock Exchange. Shares opened around $45 (giving a market value around $29 billion). The company now reports billions in annual revenue and reinvests heavily in R&D (for example, developing augmented reality and AI tools on the platform).
Under Baszucki, Roblox’s leadership emphasizes community-driven growth. The company frequently updates features based on developer feedback and holds events like the annual Develop conference for creators. The corporate focus is on scaling infrastructure (to handle millions of concurrent users) and broadening the platform’s scope. Today’s Roblox Corporation is a publicly traded company (ticker RBLX) that still retains its roots in education and play. Baszucki himself has spoken about Roblox as building the “Metaverse” of tomorrow, blending entertainment with user-generated creation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roblox History
1. What is Roblox History?
Roblox History refers to the timeline and evolution of the Roblox platform — from its early development in 2003–2004 to its modern-day success as one of the largest online gaming platforms in the world. It began as a small physics-based game called DynaBlocks, created by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel, before being renamed Roblox in 2004. Over time, it transformed from a niche educational tool into a global community where millions of users play, create, and share games. Understanding Roblox History helps gamers and developers appreciate how a small idea became a worldwide cultural phenomenon.
2. When was Roblox created?
If you’ve ever wondered when was Roblox created, the official answer is 2004. That’s when co-founders David Baszucki and Erik Cassel established Roblox Corporation and launched the first website for developers and testers. The platform’s prototype existed earlier (under the name DynaBlocks), but it wasn’t until 2004 that the company and product officially took shape. This marks the true beginning of Roblox History and the birth of what would become a gaming empire.
3. When did Roblox come out?
The question when did Roblox come out refers to the platform’s public release date. After two years of testing and development, Roblox officially launched for the public on September 1, 2006. This is when users could create accounts, build games using Roblox Studio, and explore experiences made by others. So, while Roblox was created in 2004, it came out in 2006 — a key distinction in understanding Roblox History.
4. When was Roblox made?
People often use when was Roblox made interchangeably with “created,” but the phrase emphasizes the development phase. Roblox was “made” during 2003–2004, when the first versions were programmed by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. These early builds included basic physics, building blocks, and multiplayer capabilities. By the time Roblox was released in 2006, it had evolved into a complete, interactive gaming platform. Therefore, Roblox was made in 2004, refined for two years, and released publicly in 2006 — key milestones in Roblox History.
5. Who made Roblox?
The question who made Roblox leads us back to two visionary founders: David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. They co-founded Roblox Corporation in 2004 and built the original version of Roblox from scratch. Baszucki, who previously worked on educational simulation software, wanted to create a sandbox where users could experiment, build, and learn. Cassel, a talented engineer, helped bring that vision to life. Their collaboration marks the foundation of Roblox History — one driven by creativity, education, and innovation. Sadly, Erik Cassel passed away in 2013, but his legacy lives on in every part of Roblox today.
6. Who is the CEO of Roblox?
The current CEO of Roblox is David Baszucki, one of the original founders. He has led Roblox Corporation since its creation and remains a driving force behind the company’s innovation and expansion. Under his leadership, Roblox went public in March 2021, debuting on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker RBLX. As CEO, Baszucki’s mission is to make Roblox a “human co-experience” platform — not just a gaming hub, but a place where people can learn, socialize, and create. The CEO of Roblox plays a central role in shaping its future while honoring the foundation of Roblox History.
7. How has Roblox History evolved over time?
The evolution of Roblox History is a story of technological growth and community expansion:
- 2003–2004: The idea for Roblox is born; early builds are made under the name DynaBlocks.
- 2006: The public release of Roblox marks the start of user-generated gaming.
- 2010–2015: Roblox introduces virtual currency (Robux), Builder’s Club, and the Developer Exchange program (DevEx).
- 2016–2020: The platform expands globally; Roblox launches on mobile, Xbox, and VR, reaching millions of players.
- 2020–2025: Roblox hosts virtual concerts, partners with major brands, and becomes a global hub for immersive experiences.
Each phase of Roblox History demonstrates how the platform has adapted to new technologies and trends while keeping its community at the center.
8. What inspired the creation of Roblox?
The inspiration behind Roblox History came from Baszucki and Cassel’s earlier work on educational physics software. They wanted to create a digital playground where users could experiment with real-world mechanics and creativity. Over time, they expanded that vision to include social play, user-generated content, and virtual economies. Their core philosophy — empowering users to build and learn — remains the foundation of Roblox’s success.
9. How big is Roblox today?
As of 2025, Roblox is one of the largest gaming platforms in the world. The company reports over 85 million daily active users and hundreds of millions of monthly players globally. More than half of all Roblox users are under age 16, making it the most influential gaming platform for kids and teens. There are millions of games (called “experiences”) built using Roblox Studio, and the virtual economy generates billions of dollars each year. These statistics show how far Roblox History has come since 2004 — from a small startup to a digital universe.
10. What is Roblox’s impact on gaming culture?
Roblox History has reshaped gaming culture in several ways:
- Empowering creators: Anyone can become a developer using Roblox Studio.
- Virtual economy: Players earn and spend Robux, Roblox’s in-game currency.
- Social connection: Roblox is as much a social platform as it is a gaming one.
- Education: Many schools use Roblox to teach coding, game design, and entrepreneurship.
By blending creativity, business, and social interaction, Roblox has become more than a game — it’s a cultural movement.
11. What’s next in Roblox History?
The next chapter of Roblox History includes expansion into the metaverse, AI integration, and enhanced realism. Roblox is investing in virtual reality, spatial audio, and next-gen rendering to make experiences more immersive. The company also plans to grow in education and entertainment, bridging the gap between play and productivity. With the CEO of Roblox, David Baszucki, continuing to innovate, the platform’s future looks brighter than ever.
12. Why is it important to learn about Roblox History?
Learning about Roblox History helps players understand the vision and effort that built one of the world’s most creative communities. It shows how innovation, collaboration, and user feedback can shape a billion-dollar platform. For aspiring developers, it’s also a source of inspiration — proof that a small idea can transform the world of gaming.
Final Thoughts on Roblox History
From 2004’s humble beginnings to today’s massive metaverse, Roblox History is a testament to creativity, community, and innovation. Whether you were curious about when was Roblox created, when did Roblox come out, who made Roblox, or the CEO of Roblox, this story shows how far the platform has come — and how bright its future remains. Roblox isn’t just a game; it’s an evolving world built by its players, for its players.
- Q: When was Roblox created?
A: Roblox began development in late 2003, was renamed “Roblox” in January 2004, and officially launched to the public on September 1, 2006. The company was founded in 2004 by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. - Q: When did Roblox come out?
A: The first public release of Roblox was on September 1, 2006 (Windows version). Mobile and console versions followed years later. So if you’re asking “when did Roblox come out,” the answer is 2006. - Q: When was Roblox made?
A: This question is similar to creation: Roblox’s code and platform were being built throughout 2004. The platform’s website was up by 2004, but the full game became available in 2006. - Q: Who made Roblox?
A: Roblox was made (co-founded) by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. These two engineers started the project in 2003–2004, later forming Roblox Corporation in 2004. - Q: Who is the CEO of Roblox?
A: The CEO of Roblox Corporation is David Baszucki. He co-founded the company and has led it since the early days. - Q: Is Roblox free to play?
A: Yes, Roblox is free to download and play on most platforms. It makes money through optional purchases (Robux, avatar items, Premium subscriptions) but no fee is required to join or create games. - Q: How popular is Roblox? How many people play it?
A: As of 2025, Roblox is extremely popular. It reports tens of millions of daily users (e.g. ~85 million on average) and hundreds of millions of monthly users. It’s one of the largest gaming platforms in the world, especially among children and teenagers. - Q: What is Roblox used for?
A: Roblox is used to create and play games, socialize with friends, attend virtual events, and learn game development. Students often learn basic programming and 3D modeling by making Roblox games. It’s also been used for brand promotions, educational activities, and family entertainment. - Q: What does Roblox stand for?
A: “Roblox” itself is a made-up name (a portmanteau of “robots” and “blocks”). It doesn’t stand for anything; it was chosen as a catchy name for the platform. - Q: How has Roblox changed over time?
A: Roblox started as a simple creative sandbox and has added many features over time: sophisticated physics, animations, social chat, virtual items, and improved graphics. It has expanded from PC into mobile, console, and VR. The community of developers has also grown, turning it from a small startup into a rich ecosystem.
Conclusion
The history of Roblox is a journey from a small 2004 startup to a global leader in user-generated gaming. We’ve seen when Roblox was created (2004) and when it came out (2006). We’ve covered the founders (who made Roblox: Baszucki & Cassel), the role of the CEO of Roblox (David Baszucki), and major events like the 2021 IPO. Today’s Roblox is built on its history of creativity, community, and technology. It has empowered millions to build games, learn coding, and socialize in virtual worlds. As Roblox looks to the future – new features, new platforms, and new audiences – its history provides a foundation of innovation and enthusiasm.
Whether you’re a longtime developer or a new player, Roblox’s evolution offers valuable lessons: the power of user-generated content, the potential of social gaming, and the importance of adapting to change. Share your thoughts on Roblox’s journey! Have memories of your first Roblox game? Let us know in the comments and share this Roblox History guide with friends. Stay engaged and keep building!