LinkedIn, a prominent professional networking platform under the Microsoft umbrella, is embarking on a new frontier by integrating gaming features into its services. With a user base exceeding 1 billion individuals globally, the platform has established itself as a hub for networking, professional growth, and recruitment.
LinkedIn to venture into the world of gaming
This expansion into gaming aims to enhance user engagement and provide a more comprehensive experience for its diverse community of users. The company’s foray into gaming involves the development of puzzle-based games, drawing inspiration from the success of viral games like Wordle.
Among the early gaming endeavors are titles such as “Queens,” “Inference,” and “Crossclimb,” which are designed to captivate users and encourage interaction within the platform. LinkedIn is strategically tapping into the puzzle-mania trend that has garnered immense popularity among mobile users, particularly in the casual gaming segment.
Nima Owji, a researcher analyzing LinkedIn’s app code, has noted indications of the platform’s gaming initiatives. One intriguing aspect under exploration is the potential organization of player scores based on their workplaces, with companies possibly being ranked based on these scores. This gamification element introduces a competitive yet engaging dynamic that could foster deeper connections and conversations among professionals using LinkedIn.
A LinkedIn spokesperson has confirmed the company’s venture into gaming, emphasizing the goal of infusing fun into the platform, strengthening relationships, and sparking meaningful interactions. While a specific launch date has not been disclosed, LinkedIn users can anticipate these puzzle-based games to debut within the platform in the near future.
The audience and the new game frontier
The spokesperson’s statement underscores LinkedIn’s commitment to evolving its offerings to meet the evolving needs and preferences of its user base. It is worth noting that Microsoft, LinkedIn’s parent company, holds a significant presence in the gaming industry through entities like Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax. The gaming division of Microsoft reported substantial revenues of $7.1 billion in the last quarter, surpassing revenues from its Windows division for the first time.
While the exact extent of Microsoft’s involvement in LinkedIn’s gaming project remains undisclosed, the synergy between these entities hints at potential synergies and cross-platform integrations. Gaming has emerged as a dominant force in the digital landscape, with mobile gaming apps consistently ranking among the most popular and revenue-generating applications.
LinkedIn’s decision to venture into gaming aligns with broader industry trends and reflects a strategic move to capture a share of the lucrative gaming market while enhancing user engagement and platform stickiness. Platforms outside the traditional gaming realm have successfully leveraged gaming elements to boost user traffic and interaction.
For example, The New York Times’ acquisition of Wordle resulted in continued engagement from millions of players, contributing to its broader suite of online puzzles and games. However, the gaming landscape is dynamic, with platforms like Facebook pivoting away from standalone gaming apps towards mixed reality experiences and Meta Quest initiatives.
LinkedIn’s entry into gaming signifies a strategic evolution aimed at enriching user experiences, fostering deeper connections, and tapping into the gaming industry’s revenue potential. By integrating puzzle-based games and gamification elements, LinkedIn is poised to create a more immersive and interactive platform that resonates with its diverse user base of professionals globally.
