Microsoft Seeks to Integrate Ads into Games with Patent Filing
Microsoft has filed a patent for a system that could introduce context-aware advertising into PC and console games. The system would use game-state information to identify natural in-game breaks, such as loading screens or cutscenes, and insert ads at these times. Players would earn credits for uninterrupted playtime, which would grant them another period of ad-free access until a set time limit or milestone is reached.
The patent describes a credit-based model that rewards viewers with more uninterrupted playtime after watching promoted content. This approach is similar to the rewarded-ad model seen in mobile gaming, but applied to software and games running on PCs and consoles.
Microsoft's proposal has raised concerns among gamers about potential disruptions to gameplay and the impact on the gaming experience. The patent does not commit to deployment, and it remains unclear whether Microsoft will implement this system in their games or services.