Xbox 360 releases this fall will be stuffed with plenty of unlockables and achievements, as well as in-game advertising, thanks to Massive Incorporated. "Guitar 5" and "DJ Hero," as well as "Band Hero" and "Tony Hawk: Ride," are just a few of the titles that the Microsoft-owned company has made deals with to feature logos and products from clients.
"Advertisers covet the fall television season for the opportunities the networks' prime-time lineups give brands to reach their target audiences," Massive general manager JJ Richards explained, according to Mediaweek. "What many advertisers may not know is this fall (and winter) there [will be] a host of chart toppers that will help them engage the highly coveted male 18-34 demographic in a more efficient and less interruptive manner than traditional TV ads."
Integrated ad content has long been a money-maker for film and television. The stadium walls of sports games and brand-ready music equipment of the "Rock Band" and "Guitar Hero" franchises offers huge opportunities for advertisers, and even bigger money possibilities for companies like Massive, who negotiate placement.
Subtle and sensible appearance can be a lot less irritating to the gamer as as well when a product appears in its natural environment and doesn't demand a cut-scene or commercial to show itself off.
What do you think of in-game advertising? Do you like it better than ad banners and pop-ups? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.