Microsoft patents ad breaks on game loading screens

Microsoft has filed a patent for a system that inserts ads into games at non-critical moments such as loading screens and after completing levels. The filing also describes a credit-based model where players earn ad-free playtime by completing in-game tasks, potentially enabling cheaper ad-supported versions of premium games.

• Ads would appear on loading screens and after level completion
• Credit system grants ad-free playtime for in-game tasks
• Could create cheaper ad-supported tiers for premium games
• Driven by falling engagement and cloud gaming costs