So you have a great idea for a commercial serious game, but can't figure out how to monetize it? You might want to take a page from Sony's game division. They've created a business unit focused strictly on in-game advertising.
In-game advertising is expected to be a huge revenue opportunity for commercial developers of online games. As subscription-based business models are waning in popularity, developers are exploring alternative revenue strategies. And, as the online game movement looks for a sustainable business model, serious game developers should be paying close attention for business intelligence, ideas, and lessons learned.
A client recently asked me what is preventing mass adoption of serious games. My answer? Developers don't know how to make money yet. Until we figure out business models that enable multiple revenue opportunities from the same development effort, serious games will be simply the playground of large, well-funded organizations.
Over the next several months, I will be examining several monetization schemes for serious games. Of course I'll share.
I'm serious,
Anne
