And I'm OK with that. With all the major video game systems currently connected to the 'net I've read (and am not surprised) that some download and update ads in the background. Playing Burnout Paradise with Gav last night I happened upon a couple such ads that are particularly timely -- in support of electing Barack Obama president. Cool!

Burnout is a driving/racing/crashing game so the in-game billboards are used and updated periodically. Most are unnoticeable and haven't attracted my eye save for a bunch covered with a CompUSA ad (didn't think they were still around) and this set of two "vote early" ads from the Obama campaign. I hesitate to make blatent "no more ads in a game I've already paid for" statements so I won't. What I will say is that I don't ever want in-game advertising to impact or even drive a particlar title. With many games already costing upwards of $50 or $60 new it could really begin to alienate consumers in a massive industry. Keep 'em simple and unobtrusive and any likely push back will be at a minimum.

In the case of these Obama ads, however, I'm excited that their campaign is wise enough to tap into such a medium and hope they see a return on investment come Nov. 4. Obama ftw, indeed!

The season has drawn to a stunning close today at Frost Park with chalkers braving the rain and vying for this season's champion. Despite the soggy sog it was a great day out there and my hat's off to all the artists for their contributions through 30 episodes and to everyone who enjoys in person and online. Likewise to the sponsors for adding that special incentive that helped keep everything rolling.

Here's are this weeks works. Enjoy and vote for your fav. We'll see you next year!

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