Microsoft-owned professional networking platform LinkedIn is gearing up to incorporate games into its ecosystem. This decision marks a significant departure from its role as a platform focused on professional networking and career development.
The site is poised to introduce puzzle-based games for short bursts of play. The initial lineup includes titles such as “Queens,” “Inference,” and “Crossclimb.” While an official launch date hasn’t been disclosed yet, confirmation of this development signals a new direction for the platform.
With over a billion users, LinkedIn aims to capitalize on this audience by providing professional networking opportunities and leisure activities. The introduction of a ranking system adds intrigue to the gaming experience. Companies will reportedly be ranked based on employees’ performance in these games.
For Microsoft, this move aligns with its strategy of diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional software offerings. With subsidiaries like Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax contributing significantly to revenues, Microsoft sees potential in leveraging the gaming industry’s growth.
The decision to incorporate games into LinkedIn also reflects a trend among social platforms to explore gaming opportunities. While Facebook’s gaming app platform ceased operations in 2022, the potential market value of the gaming industry continues to attract attention.
In the coming months, as LinkedIn users begin to engage with these puzzle-based games, the platform may evolve into a hub where professionals connect, unwind, and engage in friendly competition.
