Gamers might have to get used to seeing a bit of product placement while they are playing thanks to plans reportedly being devised by PlayStation.
The game console giant is said to be working on a plan to include advertisements within their games by the end of this year, according to Business Insider. It claims that Sony Interactive Entertainment is looking to follow the path being trodden by its rivals at Xbox, who are also said to be looking into the idea.
Sources have said that Sony, who make PlayStations, is exploring ways that would allow developers to create more free-to-play games. However, they plan to monetise this project by including in-game adverts.
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It is reported that Sony's plans for in-game adverts will be limited to menu screens for the free-to-play games, which can then be used to promote PlayStation-supported titles by developers and publishers. But reports add that Sony is looking at ways to take this even further.
This could include adverts showing up in games as if they are "part of the game". Sources say it could be like seeing billboards or advertising hoardings at sports stadiums.
Players could be further incentivised to look at the promotions with the offer of in-game rewards after the ad has been played. This could include exclusive skins and avatars.
The idea comes after reports that Xbox developer Microsoft is also looking into in-game adverts. However, it is unclear whether the software firm behind Windows is holding talks with partners about the scheme.
This is in contrast with Sony who are reportedly already having conversations about getting ads into games. But it is also claimed that the company is being strict with who they talk too and the collection of personal data is being being ruled out within Sony, but could potentially be sold off elsewhere to developers and publishers.
