Microsoft Patent Could Bring Ad Breaks Directly Into Gameplay

Microsoft has filed a patent for a system that could pause gameplay to show ads and reward players with extra game time.

The patent, titled Contextually Aware Management of Interactive Software Application Access, describes promoted audiovisual content that could appear during gameplay. Watching an ad could give players credits that extend access to a game for a limited period, potentially from 15 minutes to one hour.

The filing does not confirm that Microsoft plans to introduce the system. Many patented technologies never reach consumers.

Ads could appear during natural gameplay breaks

Microsoft describes showing ads at predictable points without significantly disrupting the experience.

Possible moments include loading screens, breaks between rounds, or after players complete part of a game.

The technology could support locally installed and streamed games across consoles, PCs, smartphones, and other devices.

That means a similar system could theoretically work alongside Microsoft’s newly limited Cloud Gaming feature, although the patent does not say whether XBOX Cloud Gaming will use it.

Ads could unlock temporary game access

The proposed credit system also suggests Microsoft could use ads to provide limited access to games without requiring players to immediately buy the title or maintain a subscription.

Players could instead watch promoted content and receive additional playtime.

In other news, Sony patented a PlayStation controller with payment features, while XBOX’s new Mythic Achievement appeared in a PC app update.

Via PureXbox