Microsoft Tests Pause-and-Play Ad System for Games

Microsoft has patented an advertising system that can pause games to display ads and then resume gameplay. The patent application describes a system where the game itself recognizes suitable opportunities for ad breaks, such as the end of a level or a loading screen. While the ad plays, the game remains paused, with the user's interaction suspended.

The advertising model is based on a credit system: by watching ads, players earn credits that delay further interruptions. Once the allowance runs out, another ad could follow. The patent mentions potential platforms including desktop PCs, laptops, consoles, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and headsets, as well as cloud gaming scenarios.

The exact implementation of the technology is not revealed in the patent application. However, one possibility is that it would help fund free games or cloud gaming services. Microsoft has not commented on whether or how the system will be implemented.