Roblox Expands AI Game Creation and Cross-Platform Publishing at RDC 2026
At its annual Roblox Developer Conference (RDC), the company announced a suite of new features aimed at simplifying game creation and extending the reach of developer-built experiences beyond the Roblox platform. The updates include expanded generative AI tools, enhanced NPC capabilities, cross-platform publishing, and new creator-focused financial products like the Roblox Card and Roblox Wallet.
Build AI Tool Expands Beyond Initial Markets
Roblox is broadening the rollout of its generative AI game creation feature, Build. First announced in July 2026, Build allows users to create games using natural language prompts. Initially limited to New Zealand, the tool is now expanding to Serbia and Singapore. The company is also adding desktop access for large-screen creation, a new asset library, and iterative control for refining AI-generated content. Later this year, Build will gain prompt-based scene generation, a capability that will also extend to Roblox Studio.
Games Can Now Be Published as Standalone Apps
Roblox is making it easier for creators to distribute their games outside the Roblox ecosystem. Creators will soon be able to publish their games as separate apps on mobile, PC, and consoles, with Roblox serving as the underlying game engine. By the end of 2026, players will also be able to join games directly in a browser via a shared link. This shift signals Roblox's strategic focus on amplifying the reach of developer creations while making the building process more accessible.
Enhanced NPCs, Offline Mode, and Social Features
Beyond creation tools, Roblox is upgrading its NPC (non-player character) capabilities. Later this year, NPCs will be able to playtest games autonomously, helping creators identify issues faster. Creators will also gain the ability to add an offline mode, allowing players to continue playing in areas with weak network connections.
On the social side, players will get a new Friends chat tab that persists across games, with voice typing support. An improved discovery algorithm will suggest shorter-format games to younger users and longer-playtime games to older users.
2D Game Support and In-Feed Commerce
Roblox is also introducing 2D game creation through its game engine, featuring an orthographic camera, animated image containers, and direct sprite-sheet import for animation. Additionally, within the Moments vertical feed, players will soon be able to tap on any avatar in a clip and purchase items directly.
via TechCrunch