What are onboarding techniques on Roblox?

Summary

The video explains how onboarding techniques help new players move through a game’s onboarding funnel: the first minutes of gameplay, also called the first-time user experience (FTUE). As some players complete onboarding and others stop playing, the funnel narrows. Effective guidance aims to reduce drop-off and help players enjoy the experience sooner.

Three onboarding techniques

• Visual elements: In-game assets and effects can guide players through navigation and interactions. Guidance can be subtle, such as a directional trail that suggests where to go, or more direct, such as highlighting a specific UI element. The video uses Hello Kitty Cafe as an example.
• Contextual tutorials: Also called “just-in-time” tutorials, these appear in response to gameplay—for example, when a player enters a new zone or picks up a new weapon. Providing instructions when they become relevant can shorten onboarding and help players remember what they need to know. In Squishmallows, a tutorial appears when a player has at least two identical Squishmallows and explains how to combine three at a combination station.
• Timed hints: These provide extra guidance to players who appear to be struggling after a predetermined amount of time. Designers can compare how long players take to complete a task and target those who take longer than most. This lets experienced players proceed without unnecessary prompts while offering additional help to those who need it.

Speakers and sources featured

• Narrator: DucksAreYellow, identified as the presenter in the video description.
• Experiences used as examples: Hello Kitty Cafe and Squishmallows.