Networking Just Leveled-Up with LinkedIn Gaming

LinkedIn, the go-to platform for professional networking, is making a surprising move – entering the gaming world! They’ve launched three new “thinking-oriented” games designed to boost user engagement and keep you coming back for more.

Why Games?

The digital media landscape is constantly evolving, and platforms like TikTok and Instagram are grabbing the attention of younger generations. LinkedIn recognizes the need to adapt and is taking a cue from the success of word and logic puzzles like those found in newspapers (think crosswords and Sudoku).

The New York Times’ iconic puzzles are a prime example of how these brain teasers can expand an audience and convert casual players into loyal readers. The viral sensation Wordle, acquired by the Times in 2022, further demonstrates the power of engaging word games. Just like Wordle, each of LinkedIn’s new offerings can be played once a day.

Meet the New LinkedIn Games

• Pinpoint: Test your word association skills by guessing the category that five gradually revealed words belong to. The faster you guess, the higher your score!
• Crossclimb: This one combines trivia with a bit of wordplay. Starting with a clue, you’ll build a “ladder” of words, each one differing from the last by just one letter. Arrange them correctly to reveal the answer and win the game.
• Queens: Calling all Sudoku fans! This classic logic puzzle takes center stage, but ditch the numbers and use queens instead. Your goal is to strategically place them on a grid so no queens can attack each other, with one queen per row and column.

More Than Just Fun and Games

LinkedIn’s foray into gaming goes beyond pure entertainment. It’s a strategic move to address the shrinking ad revenue landscape and the ever-increasing dominance of Google over online content. These new games provide a unique way to attract new users and keep existing ones engaged, potentially leading to monetization opportunities further down the line.

The success of The New York Times’ games platform – with over 8 billion plays last year – is a prime example. Their subscription model offers access to games alone or bundled with other content, demonstrating the power of games in driving user retention. Publications and media giants like Hearst and Netflix are following suit, understanding the value of interactive experiences.

Building Connections Through Play

While monetization isn’t the immediate focus for LinkedIn’s games, they offer a valuable tool for fostering connections within your professional network. You can see your high score, daily streak, and who among your connections is also playing. School and company leaderboards add a touch of friendly competition, making networking a little more fun.

As LinkedIn’s product director, Lakshman Somasundaram, stated, “It’s time we turn over a new leaf in how we deepen and reignite relationships at work, and put fun at the heart of it.” So, get ready to level up your connections and test your brainpower with LinkedIn’s exciting new gaming features!