Roblox (RBLX) Expands 18-Plus Gaming with AI and AD Age Verification

Roblox (RBLX) is broadening its user base with a mandatory 18-plus age verification process launched in January 2026, using facial recognition via Persona. The shift is yielding strong growth: Q4 bookings reached $2.2B, a 55% YoY increase, and full-year sales are forecast to grow 23%–29%. CEO David Baszucki said the verified adult segment is growing over 50% YoY, with the company expanding into higher-paying genres like RPGs and sports and leveraging over 400 internal AI models to enhance its creator economy and multiplayer moat. The stock surged over 13% on the news, but analysts caution about AI disruption from Google and a tough 2026 outlook, with JPMorgan下调 its price target to $75 from $100.