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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![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[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[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[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[Massive announces fall in-game ad lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/massive-announces-fall-in-game-ad-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/massive-announces-fall-in-game-ad-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/massive-announces-fall-in-game-ad-lineup/#comments Microsoft's in-game ad company, Massive, has announced that it will be providing ads for several major publishers this fall, namely THQ, EA and Activision. Massive will supply ads for EA's sports lineup -- including Madden NFL 10 -- and Need for Speed: Shift. For Activision, the company will provide ads for the many upcoming Hero games, including Guitar Hero 5, DJ Hero and Band Hero, as well as Tony Hawk Ride and Blur. There will also be ads in THQ's MX vs ATV Reflex as well as its smash hit UFC 2009: Undisputed. Also, expect ads in Ubisoft's Splinter Cell: Conviction -- projected on the walls, perhaps -- when it launches next year.

Perhaps most important of all, Massive will be the exclusive provider of advertisements on Blizzard's revamped Battle.Net when it launches alongside StarCraft II. That's not much of a leap, as the company is the sole provider for the current Battle.Net as well. Still, we're just guessing that there will be more than a few eyeballs pointed at Blizzard's online playground whenever StarCraft II graces the world with its presence.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqMassive announces fall in-game ad lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbusinessmassiveMicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 01 Sep 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games Korea opens to work closely with local devs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/epic-games-korea-opens-to-work-closely-with-local-devs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/epic-games-korea-opens-to-work-closely-with-local-devs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/epic-games-korea-opens-to-work-closely-with-local-devs/#comments
Epic Games has opened a new subsidiary in Seoul, Korea, with plans to provide licensing services and support resources to development teams using its Unreal Engine. Epic Games Korea will be led by Ray Park, formerly the business and strategy development manager for Microsoft's in-game advertising company, Massive, Inc.

While Epic Games has provided its Unreal Engine to teams in the territory for over five years, Park states the opening of a Korean subsidiary signifies Epic's "desire to collaborate more closely with the [local] game development community." Jay Wilbur, Epic Games' vice president of business development, noted Epic Games Korea would serve as "a hub for Unreal Engine access, knowledge and support in the Korean marketplace."

Rumors of developer Silicon Knights moving to Korea in search of the support it claims to have never received from Epic Games could not be confirmed ... because we made it up for the sake of a bad joke.

[Image Credit: Nanopaprika]

JoystiqEpic Games Korea opens to work closely with local devs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesepic-games-koreakoreamassiveray-parkseoulunreal-engineunreal-engine-3Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft lays off 28 percent of Massive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-lays-off-28-percent-of-massive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-lays-off-28-percent-of-massive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-lays-off-28-percent-of-massive/#comments
It seems as though the reports coming in this morning regarding Microsoft layoffs at its in-game advertising department, Massive, were more than a tad overstated. A Microsoft spokesperson, as well as Cassandra Nuttall, head of marketing at Massive, confirmed to us this afternoon that, "In total, the Massive business unit will see a headcount reduction of 28 percent."

Earlier today we reported that a variety of outlets, relying on "anonymous sources," were told that the layoffs at Massive were as high as 75 percent. "While yesterday's job eliminations included full-time employees who work for Massive," the spokesperson told us, "the reports of a 75 percent workforce reduction are inaccurate." Citing the "global economic downturn" for the staff cuts, Ms. Nuttall also insures us that the company "foresee[s] no disruption whatsoever [in its] current relationships with global, blue chip brands and leading game publishers." To those of you laid off, we wish you the best in the coming months.

JoystiqMicrosoft lays off 28 percent of Massive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscassandra-nuttalleconomylayoffsmassivemicrosoftrecessionWed, 06 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft continues layoffs, Massive allegedly hit the worst [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-continues-layoffs-massive-allegedly-hit-the-worst/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-continues-layoffs-massive-allegedly-hit-the-worst/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-continues-layoffs-massive-allegedly-hit-the-worst/#comments
According to multiple reports this morning, the second round of Microsoft layoffs has affected Microsoft's in-game advertising arm, Massive. Apparently as much as 75 percent of the staff has been cut, according to anonymous sources at VentureBeat.

"As part of the plan we announced in January to reduce costs and increase efficiencies, today we are eliminating additional positions across several areas of the company ... Microsoft is not breaking out layoff figures by divisions," a rep for Microsoft told Gamasutra. We've contacted Massive and Microsoft for confirmation of the layoff numbers and will update this story when we hear more. If you were affected by the layoffs and want to speak with us (anonymously or otherwise), please feel free to shoot us an email.

Update: Microsoft and Massive have responded to our emails and corrected reports from this morning.


Source 1 - Gamasutra
Source 2 - VentureBeat
Source 3 - BigDownload

JoystiqMicrosoft continues layoffs, Massive allegedly hit the worst [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 May 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomygamasutralayoffsmassivemicrosoftventurebeatXbox-360Wed, 06 May 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deadliest Catch giving away free MS points ... don't get too excited]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/deadliest-catch-giving-away-free-ms-points-dont-get-too-exc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/deadliest-catch-giving-away-free-ms-points-dont-get-too-exc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/deadliest-catch-giving-away-free-ms-points-dont-get-too-exc/#comments
Microsoft is partnering on some Discovery Channel ad buy to promote Deadliest Catch -- it's a show about crab fisherman and a badly reviewed game -- but the only things worth caring about are the free MS points being given away. The campaign will have "a number of click-to-video executions across the Xbox LIVE platform with a call-to-action Deadliest Catch Text to Win Sweepstakes. The sweepstakes provides viewers with a specific mobile SMS code to text for a chance to win Microsoft Points."

Microsoft and Discovery will give away a whopping 2 million MS Points to 5,000 winners during the promo ... hey, wait a minute. Let's do the mathematicals on that: 2,000,000 MS points / 5,000 people = 400 MS points. So, they're giving out $5 XBLM redemption codes? Oh well, guess it's $5 those 5,000 folks didn't have before. Full details about the promotion can be found here.

JoystiqDeadliest Catch giving away free MS points ... don't get too excited originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deadliest-catchdiscoverymassivemicrosoft-pointsxbox-liveMon, 13 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft gets bigger by picking up Massive Entertainment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/ubisoft-gets-bigger-by-picking-up-massive-entertainment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/ubisoft-gets-bigger-by-picking-up-massive-entertainment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/ubisoft-gets-bigger-by-picking-up-massive-entertainment/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Massive Entertainment, developers of World in Conflict and the Ground Control series, have a new home at publisher Ubisoft. The Swedish studio was let go by Activision Blizzard following "The Merger." Clearly, despite Massive's quality work, WiC and the studio's RTS proficiency lacked the "potential to be exploited" by Blizzavision.

Neither the teams next project nor the details of the financial transaction were disclosed by the publisher. Last we'd heard, Blizzavision still owned the rights to World in Conflict, but we've contacted Ubi to find out if it took the rights in the transaction. If it didn't, expect a new RTS franchise (unless the studio totally goes in a new direction) the next time Massive announces what game it's working on.

Update: Ubi confirmed with us that it did receive the World in Conflict rights in the acquisition.

JoystiqUbisoft gets bigger by picking up Massive Entertainment originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardmassivemassive-entertainmentPCubisoftworld-in-conflictMon, 10 Nov 2008 18:30:00 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[X3F Impressions: World in Conflict: Soviet Assault]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/x3f-impressions-world-in-conflict-soviet-assault/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/x3f-impressions-world-in-conflict-soviet-assault/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/x3f-impressions-world-in-conflict-soviet-assault/#commentsFiled under:

Real-time-strategy isn't exactly the largest, most well rounded genre on the 360, and while we have seen Lord of the Rings and C&C3 do relatively well on console, there still isn't any kind of breakout hit. While the appropriateness of RTS to consoles is debatable (as is the likelihood of there ever being a breakout hit) the games that choose to go that route are nevertheless getting better. World in Conflict: Soviet Assault will be the next big real-time-strategy release on 360 and it improves on the console-specific tweaks made to past console RTS games.

First and foremost, the game's camera is not controlled like a typical RTS, where the angle is set, and the camera only zooms in or out. The camera is controlled exactly like a first-person-shooter, meaning that the player can aim the camera parallel to the ground if they so wish. It also means that any players who are coming from console FPS play will be able to feel at home much faster than they otherwise might.

Gallery: World in Conflict: Soviet Assault

Continue reading X3F Impressions: World in Conflict: Soviet Assault

JoystiqX3F Impressions: World in Conflict: Soviet Assault originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massivesierraswordfishworld-in-conflict-soviet-assaultx3f-impressionsMon, 28 Apr 2008 09:00:00 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[EA, Massive extend in-game ad deal through next two years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/ea-massive-extend-in-game-ad-deal-through-next-two-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/ea-massive-extend-in-game-ad-deal-through-next-two-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/ea-massive-extend-in-game-ad-deal-through-next-two-years/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We can expect ads to continue to be shoved down our throats in games from Electronics Arts as the company has extended its deal with Microsoft's in-game ad firm Massive to offer dynamic ads in games for the next two years.

While Massive will continue to offer in-game ads in existing titles from EA, such as the recently released Burnout Paradise, the new deal will allow more advertisers to continue to hawk wares in existing titles, as well as in upcoming games -- including the next two Madden, NBA Live, Nascar, and NHL releases. According to EA, ads will focus on appealing to guys between the ages of 18 and 34, but interestingly will just be served to versions released for the Xbox 360 and PC. For players on other platforms looking for a similar experience, might we suggest taping up ads from your Sunday circular to the television while playing -- at least that way you have the option to take the nuisances down.

JoystiqEA, Massive extend in-game ad deal through next two years originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingeaelectronic artsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsin-game adsin-game advertisingIn-gameAdsIn-gameAdvertisingmassivePCXbox-360Tue, 18 Mar 2008 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero, Tony Hawk getting in-game ad treatment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/guitar-hero-tony-hawk-getting-in-game-ad-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/guitar-hero-tony-hawk-getting-in-game-ad-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/guitar-hero-tony-hawk-getting-in-game-ad-treatment/#commentsFiled under:


Anyone who's spent even a little time rocking out to Guitar Hero III has likely noticed the game's heavy-handed approach to product placement, with stages littered with cans of Red Bull and billboards hocking everything from Axe Body Spray to Pontiac. The whole thing feels oppressive and graceless as even the game's underground rock venues are reduced to feeling like props to corporate shilling. And things are likely to get worse before they get better, as Activision today announced that it has inked a deal with Microsoft-owned Massive to provide in-game ads in not only Guitar Hero III, but Tony Hawk's Proving Ground as well.

The two titles have been added to the growing Massive Network advertising collective, which also includes Activision's Transformers adaptation, and will made to include "contextually relevant" dynamic ads. Interestingly, it's unclear if this partnership extends to all versions of the affected (afflicted?) games, or just those for Microsoft's console. What is clear, however, is that as games are now a big business, more and more companies are beginning to get in line for their slice of the money pie, and while game companies and advertisers reap the benefits of this arrangement, gamers are left holding the controller wondering just when their games became interactive commercials.

JoystiqGuitar Hero, Tony Hawk getting in-game ad treatment originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadsadvertisingguitar heroguitar hero 3GuitarHeroGuitarHero3in-game adsIn-gameAdsmarketingmassiveproving groundProvingGroundtony hawkTonyHawkWed, 14 Nov 2007 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Our world will not be in conflict until 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/our-world-will-not-be-in-conflict-until-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/our-world-will-not-be-in-conflict-until-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/our-world-will-not-be-in-conflict-until-2008/#commentsFiled under:

Today, Sierra Entertainment sent word that their Cold War based RTS World in Conflict will not be releasing to the Xbox 360 this year and is instead being pushed back into 2008. World in Conflict is currently available on the PC and was originally slated for a November release on the 360 until today's delay news broke. But the delay may be worth the wait with reviews for World in Conflict generally favorable and it pulling in an average of 91 on metacritic. So, if Massive Entertainment does a good job of translating this RTS over to the conosle realm then World in Conflict just might be something of interest come 2008.

JoystiqOur world will not be in conflict until 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massivesierraworld-in-conflictMon, 01 Oct 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[World in Conflict not conflicted about 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/world-in-conflict-not-conflicted-about-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/world-in-conflict-not-conflicted-about-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/world-in-conflict-not-conflicted-about-360/#commentsFiled under:


Rumored earlier this month, Sierra has confirmed today that the Massive Entertainment RTS, World in Conflict, is heading to the Xbox 360. The PC version is expected in September with the 360 version following sometime after. No date has been given, but an official announcement is expected soon. World In Conflict looks to set itself apart from other RTS games, such as Command & Conquer 3, by doing away with resource management and a fixed camera. 1UP notes that the game also features Tears for Fears (we'll let you guess which song). Check out the official World in Conflict website for plenty of images, videos, and info.

JoystiqWorld in Conflict not conflicted about 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Finally, some hard video evidence that druids are a bit too overpowered in World of Warcraft. You can't really argue after seeing this video. Could your poor warlock, paladin, or shaman stand up to this? We highly doubt it. Hopefully Blizzard will heed the call and scale back on the druids just a tad, because while some of the other classes are pretty powerful, this one goes to 11.

JoystiqToday's overkilliest video: Nerf Druid originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This controller is just a couple of millimeters larger than the Xbox's original controller, so if you're looking for a throwback to that, or something that can double as the monolith in 2001: A Space Odyssey, then look no further. Sibling site Xbox 360 Fanboy has posted a link to instructables.com, where you can learn how to make one of your very own to hold and to love, and to use as a bed.

When we say massive, we really mean massive. There is no doubt that they could have also housed a couple of 360s inside this thing, hooked it up to two TVs, and made a Gears of War/Halo 2 gaming machine all in one.. A controller at each corner of the box, embedded plasma screens, surround sou ... okay, granted that's taking it a bit too far.

In a day and age of miniaturization, it's nice to see someone maximizing things. We'd really like to see a DS Lite this big, aw yeah.

JoystiqDIY Xbox 360 controller only slightly bigger than the 'Duke' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Dec 2006 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigcontrollergianthackhugemassiveoriginalwirelessXboxXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Tue, 05 Dec 2006 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: attack for massive damage!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/02/nintendo-attack-for-massive-damage/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/02/nintendo-attack-for-massive-damage/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/02/nintendo-attack-for-massive-damage/#commentsFiled under:

While Joystiq might not be prepared to let go of the whole "attack the crab for massive damage" thing, we're a little more mature. We'd never stoop so low as to kick Sony while they're down, or their fans for that matter. We're mature, thoughtful individuals who treasure our relationship with competing companies.

As such, we can't really speak for Nintendo, who took a chance to make fun of Sony through their Touch Generations site for 42 All-Time Classics, or Clubhouse Games. In the chat section, a small thumbnail shows that one must "shake the soda for massive damage!"

[Thanks Dennis!]

JoystiqNintendo: attack for massive damage! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Oct 2006 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>42all-timeclassicsclubhousecrabdamagedsgamesmassivenintendonintendodsMon, 02 Oct 2006 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Study shows more support for in-game ads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/study-shows-more-support-for-in-game-ads/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/study-shows-more-support-for-in-game-ads/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/study-shows-more-support-for-in-game-ads/#commentsFiled under:

According to oddly-capitalised research agency comScore Networks, gamers are a ripe target for marketers. With almost 50% of all Internet users apparently reading game sites, reaching out to these 76 million consumers is big business.

The survey also looked at attitudes to in-game advertising amongst heavy and light gamers. Heavy gamers are more familiar with the concept of in-game ads, and are also more likely to buy products advertised in-game. The conclusion across all types of gamers leans towards the inevitable -- in-game ads will be a feature of the future.

With only 800 gamers surveyed, a larger segment may produce vastly different results, but these statistics are encouraging for firms like Microsoft's Massive who are working within this market.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqStudy shows more support for in-game ads originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 May 2006 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingcomscoredemographicin-game adsIn-gameAdsmarketmarket researchMarketResearchmassiveresearchsegmentWed, 17 May 2006 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[How do ads in games benefit gamers?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/05/how-do-ads-in-games-benefit-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/05/how-do-ads-in-games-benefit-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/05/how-do-ads-in-games-benefit-gamers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Joystiq reader "Pickypants" asked a great question earlier this morning in our post about Microsoft's acquisition of Massive Inc.

He asked, "how -- specifically in games -- will ads give a benefit to the end user?"

First, just to get this out of the way: we know that ads can be evil. We'll be the first to slam anyone that clumsily inserts advertisements into a game in such a way that it hurts the in-game experience. That's a given! But let's move past the issue by assuming for a moment that advertisers, developers and publishers are aware of gamer alarm over the prospect of in-game ads. These parties know that they'd be hurting their businesses if they were to bludgeon gamers with ads because the resultant backlash would dampen game sales.

Context laid, let's answer the question:

Continue reading How do ads in games benefit gamers?

JoystiqHow do ads in games benefit gamers? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 May 2006 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MacmassivemicrosoftmsftPCXbox-360Fri, 05 May 2006 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's Massive acquisition now official]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/05/microsofts-massive-acquisition-now-official/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/05/microsofts-massive-acquisition-now-official/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/05/microsofts-massive-acquisition-now-official/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Last week's news that Microsoft would be acquiring video game advertising firm Massive Inc. for between $200 and $400 million was confirmed by Microsoft on Thursday.

According to a Microsoft press release, Massive's technology for inserting advertising into games will be integrated across Microsoft properties including games on MSN and games played within MSN Messenger. (It's a given that certain Windows games will continue to incorporate the technology, depending on whether the developers and publishers of those games wish to incorporate it.)

Approximately 60% of Xbox 360s are connected to Microsoft's Xbox Live service. If that connection ratio stays constant even as the number of Xbox 360s sold increases, Microsoft will be able to promise advertisers the ability to deliver ads to millions (if not tens of millions, depending on how Microsoft fares versus the PS3 and Wii) of net-connected console gamers.

JoystiqMicrosoft's Massive acquisition now official originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 May 2006 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingMacmassivemicrosoftmsftPCXbox-360Fri, 05 May 2006 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft munches Massive Inc.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/26/microsoft-munches-massive-inc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/26/microsoft-munches-massive-inc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/26/microsoft-munches-massive-inc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Just when you thought Microsoft could get no more massive, The Wall Street Journal reports that Microsoft is acquiring New York-based video game advertising company Massive Inc. for between $200 million and $400 million.

We're not sure what took the Journal so long. We totally saw this one coming, like, four months ago.

What's that sound? It's a cash register ringing up revenue stream #17 for Microsoft's growing gaming business.

Don't remember the others? Here's a refresher on just the Xbox-related streams: (1) Xbox Live subscriptions; (2) royalties from Xbox Live Arcade titles (direct digital distribution 4TW); (3) Xbox Live sponsored weekends; (4) Peripherals; (5) That "artist of the month" music video distribution deal that we've never bothered to write about but that you can be sure Microsoft is getting paid handsomely for; (6) royalties on every Xbox 360 game sold; (7) direct revenues from first-party game sales; (8) Movie trailers (surely, Microsoft's not paying movie theaters to place trailers on the 360); (9) DirecTV on the 360; (10) Xbox gear; (11) game-to-movie royalties; (12) Sound tracks; (13) books based on games; (14) digital tchotchkes purchased with Microsoft points; (15) royalties on content packs and episodic game content (16) sales of the consoles themselves...

JoystiqMicrosoft munches Massive Inc. originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Apr 2006 00:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ads in gamesadvertisingMacmassivemediaPCPS3WiiXboxXbox-360Wed, 26 Apr 2006 00:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Massive Auto Assault in-game ads announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/14/massive-auto-assault-in-game-ads-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/14/massive-auto-assault-in-game-ads-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/14/massive-auto-assault-in-game-ads-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Several Joystiq readers are anticipating NCsoft's upcoming cliché-busting MMO Auto Assault, but this news might come as a shock. NCsoft have teamed up with in-game advertising firm Massive Incorporated, who will be bringing "real-life advertising" into the post-apocalyptic world of Auto Assault.

While NCsoft's Dorothy Ferguson seems confident that the ads will fit within the game environment, the futuristic feel of the game doesn't immediately strike us as a suitable setting for modern-day adverts. No word has been released yet on this partnership's effect on pricing; it may drive the monthly subscription cost down, but don't bet on it.

For those interested in experiencing the world of Auto Assault ad-free, there's an open beta (US link) (European link) this weekend, marking the final phase of beta for non-preorder customers.

JoystiqMassive Auto Assault in-game ads announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Mar 2006 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingauto assaultAutoAssaultmassivemmorpgncsoftnetdevilPCTue, 14 Mar 2006 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[In-game ad network says 'stay in school']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/06/in-game-ad-network-says-stay-in-school/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/06/in-game-ad-network-says-stay-in-school/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/06/in-game-ad-network-says-stay-in-school/#commentsFiled under:


In-game advertising is on the rise, and while most ads you might see in games are reasonably well placed, there are some ad campaigns that pander more to the advertiser than the specific game setting. This latest development is along the same lines -- Next Gen brings word that Massive Inc. will be teaming up with the Ad Council and US Army to bring public service announcements about staying in school to a game near you.

This seems to be a better cause than just advertising sandwiches, and it's an interesting partnership. Given that most kids play games, game-based advertising is a sensible way to reach them, but might the boundary between reality and fiction be too blurred for the ads to sink in? This might open the floodgates for a variety of less wholesome "public service"-flavoured ads, but on the other hand, it could prove beneficial all round.

JoystiqIn-game ad network says 'stay in school' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Feb 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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