Millions of non-golfers found themselves swinging virtual clubs this year as the Nintendo Wii transformed the notion of video games. Senior citizen centers brought in Wiis to help entertain guests and to provide an easy way for them to connect with their grandkids. This is but one of the many ways that gaming permeates our society, creating fresh ways for marketers to connect with their targets.

Recognizing the growth in gaming, MTV is investing $500 million in online games, on top of the millions it has already spent acquiring sites like AddictingGames.

Currently, gaming accounts for 13 percent of online time but only 1 percent of online ad dollars. Even B2B marketers will be smart to give gaming a fresh look in 2008 while seeking ways to blend messaging, training and/or recruiting efforts with gaming media.