Is Gaming Tomorrow’s National Pastime?

Posted on | February 1, 2008 |

The biggest entertainment release in history happened this year. And, no, it wasn’t for a movie—not even for Harry Potter. Halo 3, Microsoft’s mammoth multi-player video game, launched on September 26th, raking in an estimated $170 million in sales in the U.S. alone in the first 24 hours of its release. Predictions are that in three years the $12 billion gaming industry will balloon to over $18 billion. With Major League Baseball coming in at only $6 billion, we must pose the question, is gaming our new national pastime?

It’s no wonder that the advertising industry is caught up in the frenzy over gaming. From in-game advertising to branded gaming consoles to sponsoring celebrity gamers, there is certainly no shortage of opportunities to get involved. Even Hollywood has started to get accustomed to using gaming as a brand extender.  Take Spiderman 3 for example, now it’s available in video game version as well.

One thing is for sure, the path is bright for gaming in 2008. Be on the lookout for more creative integrations  of gaming and advertising. And don’t be surprised when an interactive game station shows up at the next concert or sports event you go to. In fact, it might just be the reason you’re going!

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