Microsoft has patented a system for displaying advertisements during PC and Xbox games at natural downtime moments like loading screens and mission completions, using a 'trigger event' recognition system that pauses gameplay to show ads. The patent describes an 'ad credit' system that grants players blocks of ad-free time, after which promotional content appears, similar to free-to-play mobile games. Microsoft has indicated it may introduce an ad-supported tier for Xbox Game Pass and is already testing ads in Xbox cloud gaming.