LinkedIn is adding a variety of games aimed at making connections among users. These games are designed to be solved in under five minutes and refreshed daily, with a focus on word association, logic, and trivia. Results are designed to be shared with co-workers, college alumni, and associates at rival companies to create camaraderie and spark conversations. This expansion into gaming shows that some people are using LinkedIn to replace traditional forms of social media and have more fun on the platform. However, whether users will embrace the games remains to be seen.
The link between news and games is not a new concept, as the first crossword puzzle appeared in a newspaper over 110 years ago. The success of games like Wordle has shown the social component of people sharing their results, leading to increased popularity. For LinkedIn, the addition of games is intended to become another tool for users to expand their network while having fun and exercising their minds. The goal is to help users connect with each other through the games, ultimately enhancing their experience on the platform.
If the games are successful, it could lead to users spending more time on the platform, which is appealing to advertisers. While the feature is currently ad-free, there is a possibility that this could change in the future as LinkedIn looks to build out its advertising business. However, there is a caution against adding games without a coherent strategy, as LinkedIn is primarily known for career-related discussions and networking. The addition of games should align with the platform’s ethos and focus on creating meaningful connections among users.
The introduction of the games on LinkedIn reflects a shift in how people are using the platform, moving beyond job updates and work anniversaries to more engaging and interactive features. The games are designed to be a quick mental workout that also encourages conversation and interaction among users. By tapping into the popularity of brain-busting puzzles, LinkedIn is aiming to build a more dynamic and engaging user experience, potentially attracting a wider audience and increasing user engagement on the platform. Overall, the addition of games on LinkedIn represents a strategic move to enhance user interaction and connection through gamification.
