Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Draw Something wants you to draw ads with latest update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/draw-something-wants-you-to-draw-ads-with-latest-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/draw-something-wants-you-to-draw-ads-with-latest-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/draw-something-wants-you-to-draw-ads-with-latest-update/#comments If you've noticed a lot of a hockey-themed subjects cropping up during your Draw Something playtime lately, it's not just because its hockey season and Zynga is trying to stay topical. Rather, it's all part of Draw Something's new advertising initiative, which allows sponsors to insert their brand/product/whatever into the game's list of drawable somethings.

The NHL is the first major sponsor to hop onboard, posting hockey-related doodles to an official Pinterest board. The concept was tested using recognizable brand names like KFC, Doritos and Nike, with the response being positive enough to implement the system for real. Whether this type of integrated, subtle advertising experience is preferable to banner ads remains a matter of personal preference, but we do love the idea of drawing a box of Toaster Scrambles(R).

This post fictionally brought to you by Pillsbury(R) Toaster Scrambles(R). "They're practically food!"

JoystiqDraw Something wants you to draw ads with latest update originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementsdraw-somethingin-game-advertisingiosipadiphonemacmobilepcsponsorshipzyngaFri, 04 May 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars ads find their way into Deus Ex: Human Revolution loading screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/star-wars-ads-find-their-way-into-deus-ex-human-revolution-load/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/star-wars-ads-find-their-way-into-deus-ex-human-revolution-load/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/star-wars-ads-find-their-way-into-deus-ex-human-revolution-load/#comments Deus Ex: Human Revolution plays host to a wide assortment of advertisements for fictional future-products (like robot eyes and face-installed sunglasses) -- but the game now sports a promo for a real-life, purchasable thing. The game's loading screen occasionally includes a tiny banner announcing the launch of the Star Wars Blu-ray trilogy, as seen in the corner of the image posted above.

Some of the billboards built into the game's environment are equipped to sport dynamic advertisements, but we haven't noticed anything as unsubtle as this. We suppose it could be worse! The advertisement could just pop up during a climactic boss battle. Or Darth Vader could just make a totally out-of-place cameo in one of Detroit's seedy alleyways. Actually, no, wait. That would be rad.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in.]

JoystiqStar Wars ads find their way into Deus Ex: Human Revolution loading screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdeus-ex-human-revolutionEidos-Montrealin-game-advertisingmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixstar-warsxboxThu, 15 Sep 2011 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: In-game ads not so hot, real money is in microtransactions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/ea-in-game-ads-not-so-hot-real-money-is-in-microtransactions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/ea-in-game-ads-not-so-hot-real-money-is-in-microtransactions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/ea-in-game-ads-not-so-hot-real-money-is-in-microtransactions/#comments Speaking to Edge, EA's general manager of free-to-play operations, Ben Cousins, revealed that in-game ad sales aren't bringing in substantial earnings for the company. Cousins stated that EA isn't "getting much from ad revenue at all," adding that in-game ad business "hasn't grown as fast as people expected it to." Microsotransactions, on the other hand, have grown leaps and bounds, said Cousins, pointing to the king of microtransaction operations, Zynga.

EA has seen this firsthand, as Cousins noted that its free-to-play Battlefield Heroes has seen substantially more revenue generated by microtransactions than by advertisements. Cousins still believes that advertising can work, but said is should be "more about specific deals where you can tie the content in." Cousins pointed to the recent deal EA made with Dr. Pepper, in which players could redeem codes on soda bottles for in-game content. Still, while specific campaigns like this can work, Cousins said, generic in-game ads may soon become a thing of the past.

JoystiqEA: In-game ads not so hot, real money is in microtransactions originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-cousinseain-game-adsin-game-advertisingmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 21 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ad-magine the possibilities: Microsoft sees big potentials in collecting Kinect user data]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/microsoft-sees-big-potentials-in-collecting-kinect-user-data/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/microsoft-sees-big-potentials-in-collecting-kinect-user-data/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/microsoft-sees-big-potentials-in-collecting-kinect-user-data/#commentsKinect isn't just a new way for you to interact with your Xbox, it could become a new way for Microsoft's advertising division to gather targeted data about your family. We're not talking about some tinfoil-hat conspiracy theory -- Microsoft's Dennis Durkin postulated such a future at the BMO Capital Markets conference yesterday.

"Over time," he said, the Kinect camera's ability to distinguish between different users, and therefore tailor content to each user, will "help us be more targeted about what content choices we present; what advertising we present; how we get better feedback and data; about how many people are in a room when an advertisement is shown; how many people are in a room when a game is being played." Theoretically, the camera could also be able to measure the level of interest in a particular game or program, explained Durkin, based on factors like which jerseys viewers are wearing (in the case of a sporting event).

It's important to note that this kind of data collecting is not actually happening yet. There's still plenty of time to order Joystiq Publishing's upcoming product: the Kinect Privacy Shroud. Simply drape the Kinect Privacy Shroud over the camera and go about your life as usual without fear of being targeted by invasive advertising. Oh, and learn sign language, because Kinect can hear you too.

JoystiqAd-magine the possibilities: Microsoft sees big potentials in collecting Kinect user data originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbmo-capital-marketsbmo-capital-markets-conferencedennis-durkinin-game-advertisingjoystiq-publishingkinectmicrosoftuser-dataxboxFri, 12 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massive ad tech to be rolled into Microsoft first-party business]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/massive-ad-tech-to-be-rolled-into-microsoft-first-party-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/massive-ad-tech-to-be-rolled-into-microsoft-first-party-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/massive-ad-tech-to-be-rolled-into-microsoft-first-party-business/#comments Microsoft has confirmed the reported closure of its Massive in-game ad company and the dissolution of the brand name. Posting on the Microsoft Advertising Blog, corporate ad VP Rik van der Kooi explained that the Massive technology would be integrated into Microsoft's first-party ad business, "focusing initially on gaming," including the Xbox Live and MSN Games properties. He added, "This also means that Microsoft will wind-down Massive's third-party in-game ad business and sunset the Massive brand name at year-end."

Microsoft purchased Massive Inc. in 2006 for between $200 and $400 million. Last year, the business suffered significant layoffs despite recording soaring revenues. Microsoft will retain a Massive skeleton crew to wrap up ad campaigns running through the end of 2010. "We will make the wind-down process as seamless as possible for them," Kooi said -- for the clients, that is. No word yet on whether any Massive employees will be transferred to the first-party ad division.

JoystiqMassive ad tech to be rolled into Microsoft first-party business originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingin-game-advertisinginteractive-entertainment-businessmassivemicrosoftmobilemsn-gamespcxboxxbox-liveFri, 22 Oct 2010 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Microsoft shutting down Massive in-game marketing firm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/report-microsoft-shutting-down-massive-in-game-marketing-firm/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/report-microsoft-shutting-down-massive-in-game-marketing-firm/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/report-microsoft-shutting-down-massive-in-game-marketing-firm/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Adweek reports that inside sources at Microsoft have confirmed that Massive Inc., a Microsoft-owned advertising firm with a focus on in-game marketing, will be shut down by its parent company before the end of the month. The reasons for Massive's waning business are apparently twofold: Apparently, Microsoft favors advertising directly on the Xbox Live dashboard, as the company keeps all of the ad revenue, while Massive must split its revenue with publishers. In addition, sources told Adweek that EA's recent decision to keep in-game ads in-house stripped Massive of some of its largest clients.

The price at which Microsoft purchased Massive Inc. in 2006 is estimated to be between $200 million and $400 million, both of which are a great deal of money. The firm faced its fair share of hardships last year, when its parent company laid off more than one quarter of its staff. We've contacted Microsoft for a comment on the report.

Update: A Microsoft spokesperson responded to our query with a boilerplate "Microsoft does not comment on rumors or speculation."

JoystiqReport: Microsoft shutting down Massive in-game marketing firm originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingclosurein-game-advertisingmassivemassive-incmicrosoftpcxboxFri, 08 Oct 2010 16:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Warner Bros. appoints Greg Ballard senior VP of 'Digital Games']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/warner-bros-appoints-greg-ballard-senior-vp-of-digital-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/warner-bros-appoints-greg-ballard-senior-vp-of-digital-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/warner-bros-appoints-greg-ballard-senior-vp-of-digital-games/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Warner Bros. has tapped former Glu Mobile president and CEO Greg Ballard to serve as its senior vice president of Digital Games. He will serve under Warner Bros. Digital Distribution and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, reporting to both division presidents.

Ballard will be in charge of the company's broad digital distribution business as it pertains to PC, console, handheld and mobile games; online titles, including social games, owned and operated MMOs and "light persistent worlds"; and TV-delivered and on-demand streaming games. That leaves a lot to consider, but we'd be satisfied just to get a lot more Batman DLC for the next one. Make it happen, Ballard.

Additionally, the new vee-pee will oversee Turbine, creator of The Lord of the Rings Online, and has been tasked with recruiting a new GM for the studio.

Most recently, Ballard could be found in the cushy CEO chair of Transpera, a mobile video ad network. He's also held executive positions at Capcom and the now defunct Digital Pictures, developer of the famously "controversial" early '90s FMV classic, Night Trap. You know, the genre is making a comeback with iPhone ports ... Make it happen, Ballard.

Continue reading Warner Bros. appoints Greg Ballard senior VP of 'Digital Games'

JoystiqWarner Bros. appoints Greg Ballard senior VP of 'Digital Games' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiondsgreg-ballardin-game-advertisingjobsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationps3pspsonyturbineturbine-incwarner-broswarner-bros-digital-distributionwarner-bros-interactive-entertainmentwbiewiixboxWed, 06 Oct 2010 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen: In-game ads increase real-world sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/nielsen-in-game-ads-increase-real-world-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/nielsen-in-game-ads-increase-real-world-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/nielsen-in-game-ads-increase-real-world-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We hate to be the ones to break it to you -- but those in-game advertisements that some of you aren't terribly big fans? Well, they're actually pretty effective at boring into your subconscious and making you want to buy Axe Body Spray or Snickers, or whatever. A recent Nielsen study of six EA Sports titles, including NHL 10 and NBA Live 09, found that in-game ads for Gatorade increased household dollars spent on said beverage by 24 percent.

For more information on how the study was conducted, you can check out Nielsen's press release. We'd normally take the time to summarize that process in this very post, but we've suddenly been struck by the strangest, most powerful urge to go out and just start slamming some sports drinks.

JoystiqNielsen: In-game ads increase real-world sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 04:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingea-sportsgatoradein-game-advertisingmicrosoftnba-live-09NHL-10NHL-2010nielsenplaystationps3xboxWed, 15 Sep 2010 04:58:00 EST<![CDATA[EA shifting ad sales in-house starting with Madden NFL 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/ea-shifting-ad-sales-in-house-starting-with-madden-nfl-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/ea-shifting-ad-sales-in-house-starting-with-madden-nfl-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/ea-shifting-ad-sales-in-house-starting-with-madden-nfl-11/#comments EA's been keen on in-game advertising since 2006, and, two years ago, signed a pretty big deal with in-game ad provider Massive. Apparently, though, EA won't be re-upping that agreement. As Mediaweek reports, the publisher has instead decided to take it upon itself to coordinate in-game ad sales starting with Madden NFL 11.

Elizabeth Harz from EA's global media sales division says it's basically a situation in which EA is cutting out the middle man. "Fundamentally, [EA sales execs] are talking about these gaming audiences everyday already," meaning that EA is already discussing who's playing and what products would best target those audiences.On its own, EA can create more diverse and specific advertising packages, with increased ability to personalize packages based on the potential advertisers' targeted demographic. Exciting stuff, we know.

[Via Game Politics]

JoystiqEA shifting ad sales in-house starting with Madden NFL 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingeaelectronic-artsin-game-adsin-game-advertisingmaddenmadden-11massiveThu, 11 Mar 2010 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Portable 2 launch DLC is soda strange]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/phantasy-star-portable-2-launch-dlc-is-soda-weird/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/phantasy-star-portable-2-launch-dlc-is-soda-weird/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/phantasy-star-portable-2-launch-dlc-is-soda-weird/#comments
As we reported back in September, Sega struck a deal with soft drink maker Coca-Cola to feature the latter's Fanta soda in the just-released (in Japan) Phantasy Star Portable 2. (Phanta-sy, Fanta, geddit?) Well, it turns out that the deal has resulted in more than just giant Fanta cans littering the game's lobbies. The first round of DLC, launched alongside the game, includes a mission featuring a quiz focused on -- you got it -- Fanta soda.

In "Fanta Quiz Battle!," four players compete to answer questions correctly before embarking on a proper adventure. As noted by Andriasang, the second DLC mission, Sasurai no Seikan Gyoushounin, appears to have no such deep-rooted product placement. We can't argue with the fact that the DLC is free (likely because of the sponsorship) but any sort of in-game advertising tends to give us a sour stomach. Probably nothing a nice, fizzy Fanta won't help, though.

JoystiqPhantasy Star Portable 2 launch DLC is soda strange originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfantain-game-advertisingphantasy-star-portable-2product-placementsegaThu, 03 Dec 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[British Intelligence recruiting Xbox gamers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/british-intelligence-recruiting-xbox-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/british-intelligence-recruiting-xbox-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/british-intelligence-recruiting-xbox-gamers/#comments
The Guardian reports that British Intelligence is looking for a few good men. Specifically, the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) is running ads on the Xbox 360 dashboard and within Xbox games to recruit new members. The GCHQ, which works with both MI5 and MI6 (yes, that MI6), seeks to recruit young people with an affinity for "quick thinking, problem solving and team work." GCHQ believes that these criteria are "reflected in game-play experiences on Xbox."

We're expecting a new generation of foul-mouthed, teabagging James Bonds any day now.

JoystiqBritish Intelligence recruiting Xbox gamers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingbritish-intelligencegchqin-game-advertisingMicrosoftXbox-360Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WipEout HD in-game ads return, still affect load times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/wipeout-hd-in-game-ads-return/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/wipeout-hd-in-game-ads-return/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/wipeout-hd-in-game-ads-return/#comments
Fans of Sony's blistering anti-grav racer WipEout HD will no doubt recall the game's update to version 2.0 back in August. That's because one of the additions came in the form of advertisements that would play during race loading screens. Having to see ads in a game you've paid full price for is one thing, the fact that they nearly doubled load times is another. Thankfully, Sony responded to an outpouring of ire over the ads by yanking them. Well, as we were warned last month, they're back.

The 2.10 update for WipEout HD boldly proclaims that "Changes have been made so that any adverts shown during loading screens will not adversely affect the loading times" upon first launch. OK, ads are back, but at least they don't increase load times -- right? Not so fast. When loading a particular race, we perceived some degree of delay while the ad (in this case for Fat Princess) played. Wanting to make sure it wan't just in our ads-in-our-games-can-leave-now-please heads, we timed it. Lo and behold, the same course loads in 16.9 seconds without the ad and 21.7 with it -- an almost five second difference.

The results were more or less the same for every track we tried, with smaller venues loading faster, naturally. So, despite assurances otherwise, load times are being affected by the re-instated ads. We're working to get in touch with Sony and the game's developer, SCEE Studio Liverpool, to find out exactly what gives.

[Thanks, Ken!]

JoystiqWipEout HD in-game ads return, still affect load times originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in-game-advertisingload-timespsnsceescee-studio-liverpoolsonywipeoutwipeout-hdwipeout-hd-furyThu, 19 Nov 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell Conviction to feature in-game advertising during torture scenes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/splinter-cell-conviction-to-feature-in-game-advertising-during-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/splinter-cell-conviction-to-feature-in-game-advertising-during-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/splinter-cell-conviction-to-feature-in-game-advertising-during-t/#comments Imagine this: you're playing one of Splinter Cell Conviction's many "choose your own torture" sequences, as described by Ubisoft's Jeffrey Dickstein. As you're slamming a terrorist's face into a urinal, you might ask yourself, "is this the new Degree deodorant I should buy?" (Seriously, these are his words.)

This is actually the pitch Ubisoft delivered at Microsoft Advertising's Gaming Upfront presentation in New York this evening. In-game advertising is rapidly growing, but has typically been relegated to sports and racing games. Splinter Cell Conviction breaks convention by being neither. Expect both static and video ads to appear throughout the environment -- including during the game's lengthy torture sequences. Perhaps they should take it one step further: Sam Fisher should grab a Coca-Cola bottle, smash it, and use the broken glass to kill a guy. Talk about refreshing!

In addition, Ubisoft showed potential advertisers the "heat maps" they created whilst developing the game. These maps highlight likely places players will go while playing. Advertisers will be able to place their ads in high-density areas, in order to ensure maximum exposure to their brands while in the game world. Considering Splinter Cell is a stealth game, don't be too surprised to see ads inside of the conveniently accessible (not to mention remarkably roomy!) air ducts.

JoystiqSplinter Cell Conviction to feature in-game advertising during torture scenes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in-game-advertisingmassiveMicrosoftmicrosoft-advertisingsplinter-cellsplinter-cell-convictionubisoftXbox-360Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New in-game ads speeding towards WipEout HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/new-in-game-ads-speeding-towards-wipeout-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/new-in-game-ads-speeding-towards-wipeout-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/new-in-game-ads-speeding-towards-wipeout-hd/#comments WipEout HD (and Fury) will be receiving a 2.10 patch soon. In addition to "small improvements to front-end functionality" and some minor fixes, the 2.10 patch will change the way in-game advertisements are displayed. You'll recall, Sony was largely criticized for the game's State Farm ads which increased load times - a "no no" for the in-game ad model. SCEE marketing executive Mikel Arrien says they've learned from the controversy: "We have therefore focused on ensuring that the advertising is embedded as sympathetically to the overall experience as possible."

That doesn't mean ads have been completely removed from the picture with 2.10! In fact, more advertising is about to hit the game -- at least in European territories. "WipEout and in-game advertising and sponsorship have gone hand-in-hand since 1996, when a now famous energy drink appeared in the seminal Wipeout 2097 and over the years many brands and products have been associated with the series," Arrien said, trying to explain why the WipEout HD platform seems so ripe for commercialization.

JoystiqNew in-game ads speeding towards WipEout HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingin-game-advertisingsceewipeoutwipeout-furywipeout-hdThu, 29 Oct 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Portable 2 product placement is getting ridiculous]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/phantasy-star-portable-2-product-placement-is-getting-ridiculous/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/phantasy-star-portable-2-product-placement-is-getting-ridiculous/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/phantasy-star-portable-2-product-placement-is-getting-ridiculous/#comments Oh, come on. Come on.

The incorporation of Fanta products into Phantasy Star Portable 2 was bad enough; though we could almost excuse it for its appropriately futuristic-sounding name. There's little we can do to reconcile the addition of Pizza Hut branding into the title, though -- especially when said addition includes a pizza box shield and pizza peel sword (seen above; no photoshopping necessary). Other in-game products include literal pizza huts, dolls of the company's Japanese mascot, Mr. Cheese, and an epic boss encounter against the Noid, who attempts to ruin delicious pizza pies regardless of their corporate affiliation.

Okay, so we made up that part about the boss fight -- sorta -- but the rest is totally for real!

JoystiqPhantasy Star Portable 2 product placement is getting ridiculous originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingin-game-advertisingphantasy-starphantasy-star-portable-2pizzapizza-hutproduct-placementsegayo-noidTue, 13 Oct 2009 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Massive sees 'double-digit' in-game ad revenue growth in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/massive-sees-double-digit-in-game-ad-revenue-growth-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/massive-sees-double-digit-in-game-ad-revenue-growth-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/massive-sees-double-digit-in-game-ad-revenue-growth-in-2009/#commentsFiled under:

On the Microsoft Advertising Blog, J.J. Richards, head of Massive Incorporated, decided to dispel some rumors surrounding the in-game ad industry. Specifically, Richards noted that the in-game ad industry is "thriving." He adds that in fiscal 2009 Massive has seen "double-digit year-on-year revenue growth in the face of one of the worst economic crises of the last century," and that the company has surpassed its first quarter sales target by over 100 percent.

Richards spends the rest of the post explaining that in-game ads work, are easy to implement and, the kicker, gamers actually like them. He notes that all ads are placed with an eye toward realism, saying that "gamer satisfaction" is paramount and that all ads go through testing before being added to a game. Furthermore, he suggests that ads actually enhance the experience, contributing to realistic immersion.

Regardless of your feelings toward game ads, one thing is clear: They aren't going anywhere. Massive has already announced a fairly, well, massive lineup for this fall. Let's just hope Massive keeps the ads unobtrusive, unlike some other in-game ad companies.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqMassive sees 'double-digit' in-game ad revenue growth in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessin-game-advertisingmassivemassive-incTue, 06 Oct 2009 17:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Carmack says ad-based model not working for Quake Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/carmack-says-ad-based-model-not-working-for-quake-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/carmack-says-ad-based-model-not-working-for-quake-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/carmack-says-ad-based-model-not-working-for-quake-live/#comments
In addition to announcing support for Quake Live on Mac and Linux, John Carmack admitted that the current ad-based model wasn't exactly working for the game. To assuage the problem, id Software will soon be offering a subscription model in addition to the free-to-play model currently in place.

"The in-game advertising stuff has not been big business .... [it's] not going to be able to carry the project," Carmack said. Dually, he noted that while a subscription service will be offered, the game will never go exclusively "pay-to-play." According to Shacknews, the subscription model will allow players to create and host private server matches.This all sounds good to us -- now maybe all the hardcore Quake Live players will play in private servers and allow us to get a single shot off.

JoystiqCarmack says ad-based model not working for Quake Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>id-softwarein-game-advertisingjohn-carmacklinuxmacpcquakequake-livequakeconquakecon-2009shacknewssubscriptionSat, 15 Aug 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAIN Trophies made easier, thanks to AXE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/13/pain-trophies-made-easier-thanks-to-axe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/13/pain-trophies-made-easier-thanks-to-axe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/13/pain-trophies-made-easier-thanks-to-axe/#comments
PAIN has some of the worst Trophies ever. However, things are going to get oh-so-slightly easier for PAIN veterans thanks to an unlikely partnership with AXE. (Yes, the deodorant company.) A new character, "Smooth Jarvis," will get a brand new set of AXE-inspired moves that will net you bonus points. These bonus points, in turn, can be helpful in unlocking PAIN's "Affliction Addiction," "D-Town Destruction," and "PAIN in the Park" Trophies.

We're certainly fans of this kind of in-game advertising (versus what WipEout HD offered). But, we beg the guys at Idol Minds: please make the "King of PAIN" Trophy easier. Please!

JoystiqPAIN Trophies made easier, thanks to AXE originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>axein-game-advertisingpainsmooth-jarvistrophiestrophyThu, 13 Aug 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Double Fusion slows down WipEout HD with ads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/double-fusion-slows-down-wipeout-hd-with-ads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/double-fusion-slows-down-wipeout-hd-with-ads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/double-fusion-slows-down-wipeout-hd-with-ads/#comments
The latest WipEout HD patch did more than just add Fury content to the game. No, it also introduced advertising courtesy of Double Fusion, "the leading in- and around-game advertising and gaming audience network." While in-game ads are nothing new, the implementation of WipEout's ads are causing quite a bit of grief for PS3 owners. Why? They slow down the game significantly.

Players have become accustomed to load screens, but now they must also wait for an advertisement to play before beginning a new race. As demonstrated by a user-captured video, the standard load time for WipEout HD is about eight seconds long. If an advertisement plays, the load time increases more than twofold: to nineteen seconds.

Most in-game advertisements appear as unobtrusive and non-interactive billboards. However, slowing down a game's performance to present ads in a program gamers have already paid for is far too intrusive. Jonathan Epstein, CEO of Double Fusion, stated that "Double Fusion is responding to advertiser demand and offering an engaging ad format while pushing in-game ad innovation to a new level." It's unfortunate that we have to wait while that new level loads.

[Thanks, Chris!]

JoystiqDouble Fusion slows down WipEout HD with ads originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsdouble-fusionin-game-advertisingwipeoutwipeout-hdMon, 03 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft patents advertising Avatars for MMOs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/microsoft-patents-advertising-avatars-for-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/microsoft-patents-advertising-avatars-for-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/microsoft-patents-advertising-avatars-for-mmos/#comments
As seen in documents dug up by Siliconera, Microsoft has patented what the site calls "advertars" -- Avatars generated by advertisers to pimp their products in MMOs and virtual worlds. According to the plan as it's laid out in the patent, players could be compensated with real-world currency or in-game items for listening to the pitches.

OK, we're sure that at this point, some of you have already spun around three times and thrown your 360s out the window hammer toss-style. But are there any of you who, like us, are captivated by the idea? If there's something that says "futuristic" more than being accosted by virtual Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker as they beg you to see Rush Hour 8: We Made Another One of These Movies, we haven't heard of it.

JoystiqMicrosoft patents advertising Avatars for MMOs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertarsadvertisingavatarsin-game-advertisingmicrosoftWed, 22 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts expect in-game ad spending to reach $1 billion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/analysts-expect-in-game-ad-spending-to-reach-1-billion/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/analysts-expect-in-game-ad-spending-to-reach-1-billion/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/analysts-expect-in-game-ad-spending-to-reach-1-billion/#comments Analysts at Screen Digest estimate we'll be seeing a lot more virtual billboards as companies throw greater sums of money at in-game advertising. A lot more. The UK-based firm suggests that spending on in-game ads will push beyond a $1 billion by 2014, accounting for about one and a half percent of total global advertising dollars spent.

This is despite what the firm refers to as "short term softness" of in-game ad spending so far in 2009. In fact, the company believes in its gilded heart that virtual billboards are here to stay, as they help reach groups of people who are "increasingly hard to reach via other media." So, listen rookie, those bullets the enemy are using are very real, so keep your head down behind that fallen Pepsi billboard over there and bring me a soda.

JoystiqAnalysts expect in-game ad spending to reach $1 billion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 May 2009 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingin-game-advertisingscreen-digestTue, 26 May 2009 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[IGA releases promo vid, claims 36% of gamers seek info from game ads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/18/iga-releases-promo-vid-claims-36-of-gamers-seek-info-from-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/18/iga-releases-promo-vid-claims-36-of-gamers-seek-info-from-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/18/iga-releases-promo-vid-claims-36-of-gamers-seek-info-from-game/#comments
In-game advertising: sometimes we begrudgingly tolerate it, sometimes we hate it. Like it or not, IGA Worldwide claims that 36 percent of gamers exposed to advertising within games "bought or requested information of a product after seeing an in-game ad." And IGA would know, considering the company has partnership deals inked with EA as well as with Sony.

Additionally, the company notes that 90 percent of the folks exposed to in-game ads "recalled brands they had been exposed to" -- maybe that's where we get this hankering to snowboard through Target and blast through the Comcast Center? Check out the full IGA promo after the break for more exciting statistics on ... well ... you.

[Via VG247]

Continue reading IGA releases promo vid, claims 36% of gamers seek info from game ads

JoystiqIGA releases promo vid, claims 36% of gamers seek info from game ads originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Apr 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbusinesscomcastiga-worldwidein-game-advertisingstatisticstargetSat, 18 Apr 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine keynoting first MIT 'Business in Gaming' conference]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/ken-levine-keynoting-first-mit-business-in-gaming-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/ken-levine-keynoting-first-mit-business-in-gaming-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/ken-levine-keynoting-first-mit-business-in-gaming-conference/#comments
Focusing on riveting hot-button issues like "digital distribution, marketing, and in-game advertising," the MIT Sloan School of Management is kicking off its first ever "Business in Gaming " Conference (BiG) with BioShock magnate Ken Levine as inaugural keynote speaker.

We'll be there, Big Daddy statues and permanent markers in tow, and when we're not ogling KennyL we'll likely check out the panel featuring ex-Boston Red Soxer Curt Schilling of 38 Studios speaking about MMO business models. Hey, maybe he'll talk about that game his company's been making for three years! Code-named Copernicus? No? You don't remember that one? Yeah, neither do we.

JoystiqKen Levine keynoting first MIT 'Business in Gaming' conference originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-boston38-studiosbusinessbusiness-in-gaming-conferencecopernicuscurt-schillingdigital-distributionin-game-advertisingirrationalgamesken-levinemarketingmitMon, 13 Apr 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[IGA up for sale amidst recession woes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/iga-up-for-sale-amidst-recession-woes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/iga-up-for-sale-amidst-recession-woes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/iga-up-for-sale-amidst-recession-woes/#comments
Thanks to an ad market in turmoil as a result of the economic recession, in-game advertising company IGA has put itself up for sale. According to VentureBeat, the company is hoping to close a new round of funding, but chairman Justin Townsend has acknowledged that an outright sale of the company may be necessary for the sake of its shareholders. Prospective bidders reportedly have until March 27 to make an offer. Townsend notes that he does not wish to accept "low ball offers" for the company. The news comes after the company lost $11 million in 2007 with revenues of $3 million.

With the economy rearing its ugly head all around the gaming industry, sprinkling our dreaded layoffs tag in its wake, we suppose it was only a matter of time before related industries were affected. Whether IGA's fate is reflective of the in-game advertising business as a whole remains to be seen. Maybe IGA should use its in-game ads to advertise other games. Seems like publishers aren't too shy about advertising those.

JoystiqIGA up for sale amidst recession woes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingigain-game-advertisingMon, 16 Mar 2009 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Double Fusion in-game ads expand with THQ, SEGA, Eidos and Midway]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/double-fusion-in-game-ads-expand-with-thq-sega-eidos-and-midwa/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/double-fusion-in-game-ads-expand-with-thq-sega-eidos-and-midwa/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/double-fusion-in-game-ads-expand-with-thq-sega-eidos-and-midwa/#commentsFiled under:


Double Fusion, a company specializing in in-game advertising, has expanded its PS3 portfolio by securing exclusive "advertising opportunities" with new publishers: THQ, SEGA, Eidos and Midway. This announcement offers the first details of Double Fusion's partnership with SCEA to provide ads in PS3 games since unveiling their plan in July.

"One only has to look at the recent videogame sales figures to realise that games are the one form of entertainment consumers don't want to live without," states Jonathan Epstein, president and CEO, Double Fusion. "We are pleased to partner with and provide incremental revenue opportunities to game publishers by offering advertisers a variety of hand-selected cross-genre games we know will be a hit with gamers and the marketers looking to reach them."

Double Fusion will be specifically targeting male consumers, ages 18-34 in their various campaigns. Next time you play a Sonic game, don't be surprised to see him wear some Nike shoes.

JoystiqDouble Fusion in-game ads expand with THQ, SEGA, Eidos and Midway originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdouble-fusionin-game-adsin-game-advertisingMon, 01 Dec 2008 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Obama billed $44.5K for in-game advertising]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/obama-billed-44-5k-for-in-game-advertising/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/obama-billed-44-5k-for-in-game-advertising/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/obama-billed-44-5k-for-in-game-advertising/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

How much did it cost 2008 US Presidential Candidate Barack Obama to put ads inside of Burnout Paradise and other titles? According to a Federal Election Commission filing (via Gamespot), Obama's campaign sent $44,465.78 to Massive Incorporated to run in-game advertisements, from October 6 to November 3, in 18 separate titles. The real winner of these in-game ads, of course, was Tim the Paradise City Street Sweeper.

Comparatively, the campaign has spent a estimated total of $205 million on TV ads, about $4 to $5 million of which was for last night's 30-minute infomercial on CBS, NBC, MSNBC, Fox, BET, TV One and Univision. Fun statistic: The amount spent on TV ads was 455,555% higher than in-game advertisement. According to previous statements, Massive had approached the McCain campaign about doing a similar advertising deal, but they had passed on it.

JoystiqObama billed $44.5K for in-game advertising originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-us-presidential-electionbarack-obamaburnoutburnout-paradisein-game-advertisingmassivemassive-incobamapresidentXbox-360Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Obama takes campaign to Burnout's Paradise City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/obama-takes-campaign-to-burnouts-paradise-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/obama-takes-campaign-to-burnouts-paradise-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/obama-takes-campaign-to-burnouts-paradise-city/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It looks like US Presidential Nominee Barack Obama is seeking out the oft-overlooked "virtual maniac driver" voting bloc. Gamers who fire up their copy of Burnout Paradise for Xbox 360 will notice that some of the bilboards now feature an advertisement from Obama that says early voting has begun and features the URL of his campaign website.

Electronic Arts Director of Coroporate Communications told GigaOM, "I can confirm that the Obama campaign has paid for in-game advertising in Burnout," while also noting that they accept ads from "credible political candidates" and that such ads do not reflect the opinion of EA or its employees. As recently as yesterday, Obama is still citing video games in stump speech about underachieving kids.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqObama takes campaign to Burnout's Paradise City originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisingbarack-obamaburnoutburnout-paradiseeaelectionselectronic-artsin-game-advertisingobamapresidentus-presidential-elections-2008Xbox-360Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Google AdSense getting into games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/google-adsense-getting-into-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/google-adsense-getting-into-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/google-adsense-getting-into-games/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hot on the heels of YouTube getting into the game selling business, Google has released some details on an additional game-based revenue stream: In-game advertising via Google AdSense. Man, what's with these corporations, lately? It seems like all they care about is making larger and larger amounts of money.

We're poking fun, but this could end up being really good news for indie game developers looking to make some cash off of their efforts. As long as they stick to the non-obtrusive interstitials like in the video below the break, we're more than happy to help the little guys put some cash in their pockets.

Continue reading Google AdSense getting into games

JoystiqGoogle AdSense getting into games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle-adsensein-game-advertisingPCThu, 09 Oct 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, Double Fusion sign in-game ad deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/sony-double-fusion-sign-in-game-ad-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/sony-double-fusion-sign-in-game-ad-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/sony-double-fusion-sign-in-game-ad-deal/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Clearly Sony has warmed up to the idea of garnishing gameplay with advertising, as the company has inked a new deal with in-game ad firm Double Fusion to deliver ads in games running on the PS3. The deal is Sony's second in as many months, following a similar partnership last month with competing ad firm IGA Worldwide.

As mentioned previously, the move, while contrary to comments made by Sony's own CEO Howard Stringer, keeps with the PS3's recently opened advertising platform, which allows company like Double Fusion to sink their advertising teeth into Sony's console. Notes SCEA senior VP Phil Rosenberg, "PS3 is open for the ad business," though we imagine that by "PS3" he really meant to say "our wallet."

JoystiqSony, Double Fusion sign in-game ad deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-fusiondoublefusionin-game-adsin-game-advertisingPS3sonyThu, 10 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony announces dynamic in-game ad deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/sony-announces-dynamic-in-game-ad-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/sony-announces-dynamic-in-game-ad-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/sony-announces-dynamic-in-game-ad-deal/#commentsFiled under: ,


Love it or hate it, in-game ads are here to stay, and this morning both of Sony's North American and European arms drove that point home, announcing partnership with in-game advertising firm IGA Worldwide. The move follows some vocal trepidation from Sony CEO Sir Howard Stringer earlier this year concerning the viability of shilling real word products in video games, concerns obviously muffled beneath the sounds of counting money.

Even so, the announcement was not wholly unexpected, particularly given the PS3's newly opened advertising platform, which was announced last February and allows firms like IGA to sell dynamic ads in PS3 games. Through this deal, IGA notes that it plans to offer clients the eyeballs of "16-35 year old consumers with disposable income," though the question as to whether or not gamers are inclined to run out and spend their money on whatever billboards happen to be in the line of fire remains a topic for debate. The bigger question, as we see it, is to what level Sony chooses to embrace in-game ads, especially given that two years ago competitor Microsoft went so far as to purchase in-game ad firm Massive for its very own.

JoystiqSony announces dynamic in-game ad deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>igain-game-adsin-game-advertisingPS3sonyWed, 04 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony announces in-game advertising possibilities; EA jumps on board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/sony-announces-in-game-advertising-possibilities-ea-jumps-on-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/sony-announces-in-game-advertising-possibilities-ea-jumps-on-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/sony-announces-in-game-advertising-possibilities-ea-jumps-on-bo/#commentsFiled under:

Sony has announced today that they are opening up the PS3 with regards to in-game advertising. With the emphasis clearly placed on seamless "dynamic" advertising (read: no billboards in fantasy titles, etc), game publishers and advertising firms will be able to buy and sell space within games in order to reach the "elusive 18-34 male" demographic. They will be able to do this through Sony's in-game advertising partner, IGA Worldwide. This partnership exists with both SCEE and SCEA, so expect to see advertisements appearing on both sides of the pond.

The first company to jump on the bandwagon is EA, who has announced a multi-year deal with IGA Worldwide to include dynamic advertisements within EA's broad range of titles. This will include Madden, NBA, NASCAR and NHL as well as games such as Burnout and Need For Speed. Intriguingly, these adverts can be updated in realtime, "keeping ads fresh and relevant to each gamer" whilst maintaining "an authentic gaming experience." We don't really have a problem with adverts within games, as long as they truly are seamless (much like the product placement in MGS4). Hopefully this will make the PS3 an even more attractive platform for developers.

[Via Press Release]

JoystiqSony announces in-game advertising possibilities; EA jumps on board originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingEAIGA-worldwidein-game-adsin-game-advertisingSonyWed, 04 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Race Driver: GRID to include integration with eBay Motors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/race-driver-grid-to-include-integration-with-ebay-motors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/race-driver-grid-to-include-integration-with-ebay-motors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/race-driver-grid-to-include-integration-with-ebay-motors/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Codemasters and in-game ad firm Engage have announced that the upcoming Race Driver: GRID will feature integration with the eBay Motors marketplace, allowing players to buy and sell in-game vehicles in a "realistic setting." GRID's love affair with eBay doesn't stop there, with the online auction house also sponsoring a race series in the game called "The eBay Motor Muscle Series," allowing players to the race the eBay Motors Mustang GTR concept car in downtown San Francisco, Long Beach, Washington D.C. and Detroit.

Codemasters describes the inclusion of the eBay Motors marketplace as an "essential element" and "a revolving plot point" in GRID which players will use to "continually upgrade or swap out vehicles," though whether or not sniping auctions out from under other drivers will be included remains to be seen.

JoystiqRace Driver: GRID to include integration with eBay Motors originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcodemastersebayengagein-game-advertisingPCPS3race-driver-gridracedrivergridXbox-360Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brothers in ads: Gearbox signs in-game ad deal with Double Fusion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/brothers-in-ads-gearbox-signs-in-game-ad-deal-with-double-fusio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/brothers-in-ads-gearbox-signs-in-game-ad-deal-with-double-fusio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/brothers-in-ads-gearbox-signs-in-game-ad-deal-with-double-fusio/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gearbox Software (Brothers in Arms series) has announced that it has inked a deal with Double Fusion to have them provide in-game advertising for upcoming titles (via Develop). Double Fusion has previously signed with Eidos, Midway and Take Two, among others.

No details on what future Gearbox titles will use in-game ads. Sometimes we wish the in-game ad deals were as outlandish as our Photoshop jobs. Imagine if Borderlands was renamed Burgerlands and featured a dozen Burger King soldiers playing "Capture the Whopper" with futuristic guns and war machines. Or Aliens: Colonies could let you take heartburn medicine to ward off chest-bursters.

JoystiqBrothers in ads: Gearbox signs in-game ad deal with Double Fusion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-fusiongearboxin-game-adsin-game-advertisingTue, 25 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA and Massive ink in-game ad extension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/ea-and-massive-ink-in-game-ad-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/ea-and-massive-ink-in-game-ad-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/ea-and-massive-ink-in-game-ad-extension/#commentsFiled under:


In-game advertising. Just saying the words invoke anger to Bruce Banner proportions for some gamers. Today EA and Massive announced a two-year extension you should probably go shopping for purple shorts.

Bringing advertising to such EA hits as Burnout, Madden, NBA Live, NHL and Nascar to the Xbox 360 and PC means that Microsoft owned in-game ad firm Massive and EA will continue to mask our gaming worlds with ads marketed for 18 to 34 year-old males. Gamers from other consoles shouldn't consider themselves lucky though, soon enough Xbox 360 owners will be able to download the Burger King Whopper Launcher in Army of Two for a mere 250 MS Points*!

*Oh, I hope that joke doesn't come back to bite us.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqEA and Massive ink in-game ad extension originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eain-game-advertisingmassiveTue, 18 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony 'opening up' PS3 in-game advertising platform]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/sony-opening-up-ps3-in-game-advertising-platform/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/sony-opening-up-ps3-in-game-advertising-platform/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/sony-opening-up-ps3-in-game-advertising-platform/#commentsFiled under: ,


Competition ahoy! Even though CEO Sir Howard "young people don't like advertising very much" Stringer is skeptical of in-game advertising, that hasn't stopped Sony from pursuing that path with some determination. After appointing Darlene Kindler to head up their in-game advertising efforts last October, AdAge is reporting that Sony will be "opening up" the PlayStation 3's advertising platform, allowing in-game advertisers Double Fusion, IGA, and Google's AdScape to sell dynamic ads.

Two years ago, Microsoft acquired in-game ad firm Massive which powers in-game advertising on the Xbox 360 platform. Sony's model is a "clear departure" from that - eMarketer's James Belcher says, "Making things open only makes things better for marketers or people who want to place ads because they aren't the mercy of a given network." With "baked in" ads, and competing dynamic services on the Xbox 360 and PS3 platforms, the reportedly $400 million game advertising business is going to become increasingly visible (for better or worse).

JoystiqSony 'opening up' PS3 in-game advertising platform originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2008 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingin-game-advertisingPS3SonyTue, 26 Feb 2008 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rainbow Six Vegas 2 shoots up MLG inspired map]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/rainbow-six-vegas-2-shoots-up-mlg-inspired-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/rainbow-six-vegas-2-shoots-up-mlg-inspired-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/rainbow-six-vegas-2-shoots-up-mlg-inspired-map/#commentsFiled under:


Today Major League Gaming (MLG), the professional videogame league, announced that it would be collaborating with Ubisoft on the development of the upcoming Rainbow Six Vegas 2. R6V2, which marks the 10th Anniversary of the Rainbow Six franchise, features an "MLG Map" which depicts an MLG event at the Las Vegas Convention Center. MLG and Ubi Soft worked closely on the development of the map which was designed with competitive gaming in mind, wonder why that is.

With news of the new map comes word that MLG will include Rainbow Six Vegas 2 in its 2008 Pro Circuit, including a special release event for the game in April. The MLG Pro Circuit 2008 kicks off on April 11 and will be covered by ESPN.com. Hopefully that means we'll be able to catch reruns of the event on ESPN 8: The Ocho.

Gallery: Rainbow Six Vegas 2 - MLG Map

JoystiqRainbow Six Vegas 2 shoots up MLG inspired map originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in-game-advertisingmajor-league-gamingmlgrainbow-sixrainbow-six-vegas-2ubi-softubi-soft-montrealMon, 25 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[IGA details Burnout in-game advertisers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/iga-details-burnout-in-game-advertisers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/iga-details-burnout-in-game-advertisers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/iga-details-burnout-in-game-advertisers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In-game advertising company IGA Worldwide outlined today how it plans to provide advertising to Electronic Arts' Burnout Paradise. Advertisers cited include Burger King, CompUSA.com, Diesel, Gillette and Sling Media, among others.

The Gamasutra article notes that advertising will consist of static ads, "including billboards, retail stores, radio stations and vehicles into the game." If they want to be very sneaky and intrusive, might we suggest a mission where you try to flee from an army of masked Burger King fanatics? It may not sell Whoppers, but it's a scary enough thought to make us drive as fast as virtually possible.

JoystiqIGA details Burnout in-game advertisers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingburnoutburnout-paradiseeaelectronic-artsigain-game-advertisingPS3Xbox-360Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Safer Scotland' places anti-drunk driving ads in 360 games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/24/safer-scotland-places-anti-drunk-driving-ads-in-360-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/24/safer-scotland-places-anti-drunk-driving-ads-in-360-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/24/safer-scotland-places-anti-drunk-driving-ads-in-360-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Proving that not all in-game advertising is used solely for evil, the Scottish government plans to spend £10,000 on virtual billboards to discourage drunk driving, the BBC reports today. The campaign will place anti-drunk driving messages in Xbox 360 racing games like Need for Speed: Carbon, Project Gotham Racing 4, and sports titles like Pro Evolution Soccer 2008.

The Scottish government is elated that the campaign will be going forward, as it believes that video games are a great way of reaching younger audiences. We couldn't agree more, and think that this is one of the smartest uses for ad dollars we've seen in a while. Kudos to the Safer Scotland campaign.

Joystiq'Safer Scotland' places anti-drunk driving ads in 360 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Dec 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdrunk-drivingin-game-advertisingneed-for-speedneedforspeedpespgrpgr4project-gotham-racingscotlandXbox-360Mon, 24 Dec 2007 08:00:00 EST