It was claimed that Xbox might show ads in-game in the near future. A new report has revealed that Microsoft will place ads on free Xbox games. The company will only sell these billboards to certain brands without disrupting the gaming experience.
Xbox will place ads in free games
In-game ads are not a new concept. We see it frequently in games like Fortnite, including costumes and events for new movies. Over the last few years this has been a hugely successful marketing strategy for movie companies and has brought the gaming world a fun dimension.
But before, there were boards that carried real-world advertisements to games. For example, in 2008, Barack Obama’s US Presidential campaign appeared in games such as Saints Row 2 and Burnout Paradise.
Speaking to Business Insider, some sources claimed that the old in-game ad system may return with Xbox. Xbox is considering placing billboards inside free-to-play games for advertisers to use. The company wants to bring ads to free games until the third quarter of 2022, i.e. next fall.
However, Microsoft is concerned that in-game ads may annoy players. For this reason, it is said that it will allow companies to not only place ads that are not included in the game, but also not receive ads from all companies.
According to reports, Microsoft will also not allow advertisers to collect data about players to produce targeted ads. Xbox did not confirm these plans in a statement to Business Insider, but said they are “exploring ways to improve the experience” for gamers and developers.
Previously, unskippable ads and product placement in games like NBA 2K21 were criticized by players. Although Microsoft wants to place in-game ads without disturbing players, it can be annoying to see billboards in-game.
But considering that it will help those who develop free-to-play games for Xbox make money, free games can both increase in number and become more playable.
What do you think about adverts coming to Xbox games? Do not forget to share your views with us in the comments section or on the SDN Forum.
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