Microsoft doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to providing users with an ad-free experience. The firm is known to have indirectly promoted its Microsoft Edge browser and other software on Windows in the past. This has proven to be somewhat annoying for millions of Windows users. However, it looks like the company is intent on annoying gamers and its universe. As you might expect, we are talking about a company implementing advertising on its Xbox platform. There is no official confirmation yet, but the news comes from an insider and is already raising questions about the overall user experience.
How much will in-game Xbox ads affect the gameplay?
The tech giant, led by Satya Nadella, will reportedly allow advertisers to insert their ads into free Xbox games. It is also reported that these ads will begin to appear on some gamers from the third quarter of this year. Business Insider reports that such ads may appear as billboards in the racing game. However, it has not yet been confirmed whether the ads will extend to avatar skins or video ads. So, for now, it doesn’t seem that bad, since you can ignore the billboard inside the racing game and it won’t interfere with the gameplay in any way.
The report adds that Microsoft may not be making much from these ads because the firm is now focused on building an ad network rather than monetizing it. Microsoft is also reportedly working to determine which ad agency to work with on Xbox in-game ads. So where does advertising revenue go? The revenue is said to be split between the game developer and the advertising company. By doing this, Xbox will establish itself as a lucrative platform for developers of free games to make more money playing games.
Tricky move for Microsoft Xbox
However, implementing in-game ads may not be an easy step for Microsoft. This is because mobile players are used to seeing such ads in games, while console players are not. This can also cause resentment. Electronic Arts or EA tried UFC 4 in-game ads but were later forced to remove them due to fan backlash. The introduction of advertising will also mean stronger security in terms of protecting customer data and preventing it from being shared with other companies.
Looks like Xbox users will have to wait a bit to get more clarity on this.