In a bid to help game developers generate extra revenue, Sony is apparently planning to introduce free-to-play games on PlayStation consoles, including the PS5 and PlayStation 4. The news comes days after a report that Microsoft is contemplating monetizing free-to-play games with ads. These promotions may be tracked in-game, while publishers may reward gamers for viewing ads with skins and other cosmetic items, as well as encouraging in-game purchases.
According to a Business Insider report, Sony is currently working with ad-tech partners in a software development program to assist developers in creating in-game ads for free-to-play games. According to a survey, the company has not decided whether it will use a reduction in the revenue generated from these in-game advertisements.
Developers and publishers are likely to continue to include promotional content directly inside PlayStation games, boosted by the addition of in-game menus. According to reports, the pandemic has boosted gaming popularity.
According to a survey, the PlayStation maker is reportedly working on non-intrusive ads that might be included into games, such as ads on digital billboards in sports stadiums. These ads would be sold via a private market, but the company is reportedly being strict about how ad-tech companies will be involved. Despite its prohibition, collecting personally identifiable information, like names or email addresses, will not be permitted.
According to a recent study, Rival Microsoft is working on a way to convert free-to-play titles on its Xbox consoles to live as early as the third quarter of 2022.
According to an Insider analysis, Sony began considering adding in-game advertising to free-to-play games 18 months ago, following the launch of its current PlayStation 5. In-game advertising support is expected to be available by the end of the year on PS5 and PlayStation 4.