Most of the companies that did an advertising venture in Second Life were left with a bitter aftertaste after the wasted resources used in capturing the online gaming segment. Many companies pulled out of Second Life because the gamers were either hostile or just didn’t bother with them. The reason Second Life failed in marketing to consumers was that the online world was too big.
Usually marketers go to another game for online prospects but they should avoid the mistake with SL and focus games that doesn’t give too much independence. Take for example, Online Dance Battle Audition. They just dance around in a stage and the camera is fixed (no wandering for you guys).
If advertisers cleverly hide their subtle promotions in games no one would complain. Better yet make the promotions blend in with the virtual environment and you will be turning gamers into customers. I have cleverly hidden 7 subtle promotions in this picture go try and find them all!
It is usually best to bid during the release of a new online game when the price is cheap. Also try to get a long-term contract that promises low advertising prices. Doing advertising with very popular online games will cost a bundle but it will be worth it if advertisers have the budget.
Always choose an online game so the results can be measured. I’m not sure how online video game companies operate when it comes to dealing with advertisers so maybe drop an e-mail for an advertising proposition. Use “ctr” and “views” as an indicator on how well the advertising is doing. Be sure that the online game publishers you are dealing with will have a program that will let you measure those.
