In-game advertising became something acceptable the moment the ads themselves gained dynamicity. That is, the moment ads could be targeted specifically was the moment they became less obtrusive. Up to that point , they were infuriating. But once that milestone was crossed and specific users could receive ads catering for their tastes more or less minutely, then they became something tolerable.
Still, there is a long way to go for the mere reason that an ad is never going to be something a user will welcome with arms wide open. He might stand it, but never embrace it. After all, it is getting in the way of his enjoyment.
Kiip is an advertising platform that takes an interesting approach to the concept of in-game advertising. Its creators have focused on finding the best time to actually delivering the ads. And they have (correctly) determined that the best moment to do so is when players are elated because they have gone one level up, or achieved any other comparable feat.
Taking advantage of that (IE, knowing when people are going to be more receptive) what this company does is to offer actual rewards. That is, Kiip does not deliver ads. It offers direct rewards that come from its multiple partnerships with companies like Sephora, Popchips, Homerun.com, Sony Dash, Vitamin Water and 1-800-Flowers.
So, this is more of a rewards network than an ads network. The difference is palpable, but at the end of the day the same mission is being fulfilled: products are being promoted, and brought to the attention of customers in a way that is neither heavy-handed nor inopportune. And just as importantly, products are being promoted in a way that is not detrimental to the quality of the game itself.
Kiip.me In Their Own Words
Real rewards for virtual achievements.
Why Kiip.me It Might Be A Killer
It is an interesting variation on how players get rewards for their involvement.
Some Questions About Kiip.me
Which games are being targeted first by the company? 
