Good morning. It’s Thursday, November 28. Roblox is shaking up gaming payments, offering 25% more Robux on web purchases to bypass platform fees, reigniting the debate over Apple’s policies. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney isn’t staying silent—and neither are we. Pixel P&L dives into the details.
We also examine whether Asia is leading the way in building sustainable esports models, analyze Samsung’s newly patented foldable gaming console design, review CD Projekt Red’s latest earnings, and unpack STAN CEO Parth Chadha’s bold claims at STANfest 2024.
Roblox Rewards Web Payments, Sparks Epic CEO's Apple Criticism
Roblox Corp announced Wednesday that users purchasing Robux on its web platform will receive 25% more virtual currency compared to mobile or console apps, a move aimed at bypassing platform fees.
The decision drew praise from Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, a vocal critic of Apple Inc's App Store policies. "Awesome to see Roblox finally fighting the Apple tax," Sweeney said in a statement. "I hope the ongoing Epic v. Apple contempt proceedings put an end to Apple's scare tactics and junk fees, enabling apps to offer users web-based payment savings."
The announcement comes as Apple contests accusations of violating a 2020 court order in its antitrust battle with Epic Games. In April, Apple urged a California judge to dismiss Epic's claims that the tech giant was in contempt, arguing its compliance with the court's directives.
Earlier this month, Roblox shares surged 16% after reporting stronger-than-expected Q3 earnings. The company posted bookings of $1.13 billion, beating forecasts of $1.03 billion, alongside a narrower loss of 37 cents per share versus expectations of 39 cents.
Are Esports’ “Sustainable” Models Truly Sustainable?
In his latest feature, Michael revisits esports’ pursuit of sustainability, expanding beyond Western-centric games like Dota 2 and League of Legends to explore regional powerhouses such as Honor of Kings, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI).
While these games boast massive fanbases, lucrative prize pools, and impressive reach, their sustainability often hinges on direct financial backing from developers or external sponsors. Tencent’s Honor of Kings and Moonton’s Mobile Legends maintain dominance through developer funding, while BGMI operates more independently, resembling traditional esports structures.
Michael unpacks the tension between developer-driven funding models and long-term independence, highlighting the precarious balance in Southeast Asian markets where rising operational costs loom. With insights into how regional dynamics influence financial strategies, the piece raises a critical question: can esports truly sustain itself, or will it remain tethered to the developers underwriting its growth?
Quick Bytes
Samsung Patent Suggests Foldable Gaming Console in Development
Samsung Display has patented a foldable handheld gaming console. The design features a clamshell form factor with a joystick, recessed buttons, and a hinge resembling the Galaxy Z Flip. Details about an exterior display remain unspecified. While Samsung supplies screens for devices like the Nintendo Switch, it’s unclear if the company will pursue internal development, partner with a gaming firm, or abandon the concept altogether.
CD Projekt Reports Q3 Revenue Drop Despite Strong Game Sales
CD Projekt Group reported Q3 2024 revenue of $55.2 million, down 49% year-on-year, and net profit of $19 million, a 61% decline. Cyberpunk 2077 post-release sales exceeded 30 million units, with Phantom Liberty surpassing 8 million. The studio confirmed The Witcher’s Project Polaris has moved into full-scale production, marking the next phase of the franchise’s development.
STAN Creators Allegedly Earn $1 Million in Six Months Through Monetization
Speaking at STANfest 2024, CEO Parth Chadha also announced that the platform now supports over 500,000 creators. The event, held at Phoenix Palassio mall in Lucknow, drew over 30,000 attendees.
ESL One Raleigh to Mark Dota 2’s Return to US in 2025
ESL FACEIT Group announced ESL One Raleigh, a Dota 2 tournament, to be held April 7-13, 2025, at the Raleigh Convention Center. The $1 million event, part of the ESL Pro Tour, will feature 12 teams, with four invited and eight qualifying through regional tournaments. According to a release, North Carolina’s Esports Incentive Grant Fund helped secure the event, aimed at boosting the state’s esports industry.
Did You Know? DXB Airport Has a 24/7 Gaming Lounge
Travelers passing through Dubai International Airport can enjoy Game Space, a 24-hour gaming lounge. It features 40 gaming stations equipped with 50-inch screens, offering popular titles like Fortnite, Dota 2 and Gran Turismo 7. With top-tier consoles, AR headsets, and living room-style setups, the lounge caters to solo players and groups alike. It’s a unique way to make the most of layovers at one of the world’s busiest airports.
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