KUWAIT: Kuwait’s recent decision to ban the popular online game Roblox has sparked debate among parents, with opinions divided over whether the move protects children or infringes on parental responsibility. Supporters of the ban argue that Roblox is no longer just a game but a virtual space for socializing and parties, exposing children to potential risks.
“Children may encounter inappropriate chats or dangerous challenges and could even meet scammers asking for their parents’ banking information without their knowledge,” said Samira Helmy, a mother of three.
Others, however, see the ban as ineffective. Rana Mzanara said the issue lies in weak parental guidance rather than the game itself. “Banning a game doesn’t solve anything. Children will find ways to access it via VPN or other means. Proper upbringing starts with parents and moral values, not by pressing a ‘ban’ button,” she argued.
Talal Abayjeh, father of a child who plays Roblox, echoed this sentiment. “We reject guardianship over our children, just as many rejected it in vaccinations. Guardianship in all its forms is unacceptable — this is the parents’ role, not the country,” he said.
Some parents advocate for stricter management of children’s gaming rather than outright bans. Salma Hassan said she activated protection settings as soon as she learned her son was playing Roblox. “He plays without communicating with strangers, and I make sure he avoids games that are not suitable for his age,” she explained.
Hassan also warned that such risks are not new, recalling earlier controversial games like Blue Whale and Maryam, which encouraged self-harm. She advised parents to monitor age ratings, limit screen time to one hour a day and maintain open communication with their children.
