Xbox Might Put Ads In Free-To-Play Games
A new report claimed that Xbox might put ads in free-to-play games, offering developers an entirely new revenue stream. Xbox has hit several home runs as it attempts to dominate the video game industry, from massive acquisitions of game studios like Activision-Blizzard to the critical and commercial success of its Xbox Game Pass. Microsoft has seemingly made all the right moves as it continues its path forward, though one potential new decision is likely to stir up controversy.
Since free-to-play games don’t have a direct revenue stream through game sales, publishers utilize alternative tactics to increase profits. Most free-to-play games use microtransactions, selling players vanity cosmetics, exclusive items, or in-game currencies to use within the game’s economy. While it’s hard to blame developers for trying to monetize projects, it’s how companies do this that rubs fans the wrong way. Microtransactions have become one of the most controversial aspects of the video game industry, from the birth of loot boxes to the inclusion of pay-to-win mechanisms in free games. Though there has been a more positive shift away from pay-to-win microtransactions, games still include predatory business strategies. One fan calculated that 343 Industries’ free-to-play Halo Infinite had over $1000 worth of microtransactions in Season 1, a reality that spoiled the experience for some players. Now it seems a new way for developers to make money from free-to-play titles is inbound.
Related: How In-Game Microtransactions Became Such A Widespread Problem
According to Business Insider (via Eurogamer), Xbox may be putting ads in free-to-play games, giving developers a new way to earn revenue. The report claims that Xbox is looking into a system
Read more on screenrant.com
