Microsoft Patent Reveals Ad System for Games

Microsoft has filed a patent for an ad system that could display commercials during gameplay and use in-game events to decide when they appear.

The proposed system would allow players to start with a certain amount of ad-free playtime, and when that time is almost over, the game could wait for a natural pause, such as after a boss fight or cutscene, before displaying an advertisement.

After watching the ad, the player would receive additional ad-free playtime, called an 'ad credit,' allowing them to continue playing before another ad appears.

The system is likely to be implemented in free-to-play titles, according to the source.