10 Video Game Cash-Grabs We Can't Believe They Tried

When product placement is utilised in video games, the developers usually try to be a coy about it. Even when the product in question is directly referenced, it might only be mentioned briefly. I mean, Darkened Skye was created purely to sell skittles, but at least the creators had the decency to keep the branding out of the title.

Then there's Pepsi, who didn't try to be subtle with their PlayStation platformer, shamelessly called Pepsiman. Taking control of the ridiculously-named mascot, you must run through streets and houses to collect Pepsi cans, while dodging construction workers, billboards, and Pepsi trucks. (Even the obstacles are self-promotions.) There's also one section where our colourful hero is chased by a Coca Cola truck. (The company obviously haven't forgiven their competitor for making Pepsi Invaders.)

As blatant as the product placement is, Pepsiman could get away with it if it was decent. Although the gameplay is surprisingly fun, there are only four levels, meaning you can complete the whole shebang in half an hour.

Unsurprisingly, the PS exclusive didn't sell well, since gamers saw Pepsiman was nothing more than a cash-grab. (Honestly, it would've been weird if they didn't.)