Microsoft to Bring Ads to PC and Mobile Games After Activision Buyout

Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard has been met with mixed reactions from gamers, but the company has made it clear that it plans to use its new acquisition to expand its advertising business. In a recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Microsoft revealed that it plans to integrate ads into PC and mobile games.

This is not the first time that Microsoft has experimented with advertising in games. In 2015, the company launched a program called Xbox Ads that allowed developers to place ads in their games. However, the program was not well-received by gamers, and it was eventually discontinued.

It remains to be seen how Microsoft plans to implement ads in its PC and mobile games. However, the company has said that it will use Activision Blizzard’s advertising platform and expertise to develop a “contextually relevant” advertising experience. This suggests that Microsoft may try to place ads in games in a way that is less disruptive and more relevant to the player’s experience.

For example, Microsoft might place ads for in-game items or new games in the loading screen or in menus. The company might also place ads for real-world products and services in the game environment, but in a way that is integrated with the game world.

It is important to note that Microsoft has not yet said which specific games will include ads. However, it is likely that the company will start by placing ads in free-to-play games, as these games are already monetized through other means.

Microsoft’s decision to integrate ads into PC and mobile games is likely to be met with mixed reactions from gamers. Some gamers may be willing to tolerate ads in exchange for free games or in-game content. However, other gamers may be opposed to ads in games, especially if they are intrusive or disruptive.

It remains to be seen how Microsoft will implement ads in its games. However, the company has said that it is committed to providing a “contextually relevant” advertising experience. If Microsoft is able to do this, it may be able to convince gamers to accept ads in games.

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