Seattle - A global survey of online gamers has found that 83% are willing to view a 30-second ad in order to play a game for free.

Macrovision, a maker of copy-protection technology, conducted the survey of nearly 400 gamers on its TryGames.com site; demographics of respondents were 69% female, with 29% aged 50-60 and 34% aged 35-49.

The survey also found that 53% of respondents were willing to purchase games only after having played a trial version.

Those who rely on promotional e-mails to find out about new games rose from 14% last year to 34% in 2007, while those who consulted gaming websites for new releases grew from 28% to 45%.

"This year's survey highlights that advertising is now an increasing revenue option and trials are a must in marketing to casual gamers," said Macrovision's Michael Buccheim.

"Gamers are now turning to advertising and promotional materials to help them make their decisions on which games to play and purchase."

Related Links:
http://tinyurl.com/2c8otf

http://www.trygames.com

http://www.macrovision.com