LinkedIn, a professional social platform for networking and recruitment, is set to add a gaming feature to its platform, to enhance user engagement. The gaming industry as of 2023, is estimated at $245 billion.
According to the report, it is confirmed that LinkedIn is developing this new gaming experience, leveraging the puzzle craze seen in games like Wordle. Early efforts include games named “Queens,” “Inference,” and “Crossclimb.”
App researchers have uncovered code indicating LinkedIn’s gaming initiatives. They noted one experiment where player scores are tied to workplaces, potentially ranking companies based on these scores.
A report by Techjuries stated that the gaming market was estimated to be worth $245.10 billion in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.94%. By 2028, it is projected to reach a value of $376.08 billion, as it progressively solidifies its position as a cornerstone of modern entertainment for a global audience.
LinkedIn has confirmed that it is working on gaming but has yet to state the launch date.
The company’s spokesperson who talked to Techcrunch said, “We’re playing with adding puzzle-based games within the LinkedIn experience to unlock a bit of fun, deepen relationships, and hopefully spark the opportunity for conversations.”
While Microsoft, LinkedIn’s parent company, dominates the gaming industry with Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax, the extent of its involvement in LinkedIn’s gaming venture remains undisclosed.
Games hold significant sway in mobile and PC app usage, particularly puzzle-based casual games. Non-gaming platforms have historically leveraged this popularity to bolster user engagement, reminiscent of traditional puzzles in newspapers and magazines.
LinkedIn’s foray into gaming mirrors its ongoing efforts to integrate popular tools into its platform, catering to its professional audience. These efforts span online education, professional development, news operations, video tools, and influencer engagement, all aimed at enhancing the platform’s relevance in the world of work.